Daveyton – Established by Tsatseng Ratsho last year, Sgela 1st is determined to keep young people in school.
“We are ‘selling’ education because we believe it can change all our lives for the better.
We just want to encourage the youth to use the opportunities that are presented to them right now,” he says.
‘Sgela 1st’ directly translates to ‘school first’.
“The whole programme is based on motivational speaking and youth development.
“We are examples that it is possible for graduates and professionals to be produced from impoverished backgrounds, their own schools and neighbourhood,” explains the law graduate.
He says they do not discourage the learners for pursuing other interests, beyond academics.
“We know people are talented in other things, which is okay, as long as education is their first priority.”
He adds that they carry out Matric 101 motivational sessions.
“At these sessions we engage with the matriculants and help them with issues such as dealing with not being motivated to study, distractions, doubt, how to study and prepare for their exams.
We also share stories about our academic journey, advise them about choosing careers and where to get funding.”
Tsetsang says in the short time they have worked in the programme they have achieved amazing results.
“We do get feedback from the learners and teachers so we know it’s working.They even recognise us on the street.”
He believes it is important to provide first generation university learners with as much information as possible.
“We teach them how to apply for university or college, different course information and the basics required for university.”
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