Winter school boost for matrics

Eager to improve matric results and education in the Eastern Cape, a Mdantsane church has teamed up with 35 teachers to set up a winter school for more than 1500 pupils.

Since June 29, the Assemblies of God (AOG) winter school programme has accommodated pupils from 28 schools from the East London, Cathcart and surrounding districts.

Programme organiser Zolani Kekezwa, who is a member at the church and teacher by profession, said the programme had been in place since 2009 and due to the high demand, an additional learning centre had to be identified.

“These pupils are spread between Masixole High School, which has been utilised since 2009, and Mizamo High School,” he said.

Kekezwa said the initiative was in response to a call made by then education MEC Mahlubandile Qwasa for churches to help towards uplifting the quality of education for the pupils of this province.

Although all subjects are taught, the main focus is on mathematics, physical science and accounting.

“These three subjects are given priority focus as they are the most critical in terms of addressing the professions that fall under scarce and critical skills,” said Kekezwa.

Mveleli Marinana, one of the teachers who volunteered, said he had witnessed the positive results of the programme where he taught at Sakhisizwe Senior Secondary School in Mdantsane.

Wongalethu High School pupil Lusanda Ngwedla from Mdantsane said the programme has boosted her level of confidence in her studies.

“I can safely say I am ready for the September trial exams, thanks to this programme,” said Ngwedla.

The pupils are also served meals on a daily basis.

To further motivate the pupils a career exhibition was held yesterday where speakers from various higher education institutions and corporates were invited to advise them on career options. — arethal@dispatch.co.za