Law student offers additional tuition in various subjects to matrics in Mdantsane

Convinced that every young person deserves the opportunity to receive a first-class education, Athenkosi Kinana, 19, from Mdantsane set about finding a way to help make that dream a reality.

Kinana started a three-week clinic providing extra lessons for grade 12 pupils from across Buffalo City. 

The classes provide additional tuition in business studies, mathematics, maths literacy, physical science and history and are held at Songezo Junior Primary School in NU7, Mdantsane, over weekends.

“I grew up with nothing, as I came from a disadvantaged home, but one thing I discovered by myself was that God provided me with a brain to learn, and I have used that brain to get to where I am today,” Kinana said.

“I told myself from a young age that I would never ever let my obstacles or environment define my future.”

The weekend classes host 150 pupils, mostly from Mdantsane.

The classes were started last June and continue until August to prepare pupils for their matric examinations

“What inspired me to start this initiative were my grade 12 results, when I found out I got a bachelor pass and distinctions despite my upbringing, so I wanted to show those who have a similar upbringing that it is possible.”

Kinana is a second-year bachelor of law student at the University of Fort Hare.

“I am motivated by the fact that even though I didn’t grow up so well, never had everything as a child, I would go to bed without food, but I never lost faith in myself and I kept on appreciating the little I have in my life.

“I mostly focus on those who come from disadvantaged homes who cannot afford to pay for extra classes, but I invited every grade 12 pupil, The aim was to motivate them and give them light and hope in this important  final school year.”

Abigail Dube, who nominated Kinana  as a Local Hero, described him as a patient teacher who ensured that each pupil fully grasped the subjects they struggled with.

“We do the same course at university, and I have seen how committed he is when preparing for his lessons.

“I think he is a local hero because it is rare to find a young man who is still studying while also helping others with their academics.”

She said his teaching style was different and easy to understand.

East London high school pupil Mikaya Stompi said Kinana’s teaching had made a huge difference in her academic career.

Stompi said: “It was my mother who told me about the classes. At first I had my doubts because Kinana is  young and there were many of us, so I said he was not going to be able to attend every one. I was wrong.”

Stompi said  Kinana’s teaching style and the fact that he was approachable played a big role in her understanding of the subjects she struggled with.

“He was very patient with all of us. He was encouraging and always reminded us of the importance of education,”  Stompi said.

DispatchLIVE

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