The Pan African Shokotan Karate Do Federation hosted its dojo grading on November 22, bringing together students eager to demonstrate the skills they have developed throughout the year.

The purpose of the grading was to assess each student’s mastery of key karate techniques through a series of structured tests, including kihon, kata and kumite.

During the assessment, examiners carefully evaluated the students’ progress and readiness to advance to the next belt level, symbolised by the awarding of a new coloured belt.

Parents watched with pride as their children showcased everything they have learned throughout the year. After the grading, some parents shared testimonies about the improvements they have noticed in their children since joining the club.

One such parent is Palesa Radebe, whose four children, Lindokuhle, Thembelihle, Lwazilwethu and Thando, are all members.

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“As a parent who has enrolled her four children in this club, I can proudly say that I have seen changes in all of them, not only here at the dojo but especially at home. They are more attentive and disciplined,” she said.

Reflecting on his students’ growth this year, shihan Michael Cindi said, “At the beginning we had 20 students, but now there are 38. The more gradings we have, the better the students become, which helps them excel.”

A month ago, the club participated in a championship in Lenasia, where six of the club’s girl students won medals. Cindi added that grading ceremonies serve as encouragement for students to keep enhancing their skill level.

“They start from white to red, which motivates them to strive for the next colour. The syllabus keeps advancing with each belt.

“When they eventually reach the brown belt, that’s where the real karate begins. All of this is the build-up to that moment,” he explained.