![](https://images.caxton.co.za/wp-content/uploads/sites/5/2017/06/siso22varsity_56132.jpg)
For the second year running Varsity College Sandton’s students who study early childhood development visited Emfundisweni and Ikage primary schools in Alexandra.
The purpose of the college’s work integrated learning programme is to help their students gain valuable teaching experience and to engage with the community.
Another aim is to equip their students with vital insight into the challenges and practical situations in schools in the underprivileged communities.
The vice principal for student support Vedhna Lalla said if South Africa wants to find her way out of poverty, education is key.
“It is the foundation of our future. The basic principles of Ubuntu are a shared vision at Varsity College Sandton, where service to humanity is encouraged.”
Lalla explained that they encourage their education students to participate in community engagements to learn how to work with diverse communities, such as Alexandra.
The visits were filled with activity as the students created practical lesson plans suitable for the study level of the children while providing the relevant materials as well. The children were divided into various study phases.
The students were accompanied by the college’s vice principal for student relations, Vasanthee Govender and lecturers who volunteered to assist in the lesson facilitation.
“The Varsity College students learnt about community engagement and the school pupils were exposed to a different perspective on teaching,” Govender said.
Read: Tsutsumani man teaches special needs children and their carers sign language
Are you one of the students who took part in the Alex programme? Tweet @AlexNewsZA to share your experiences.