Prof Jansen visits Jeppe to inspire girls
The Vice Chancellor and Rector of the University of the Free State, Professor Jonathan Jansen, visited Jeppe High School for Girls on July 24.
“Society, today, has set the bar for performance so low and I have serious problems with that. Mathematical literacy is a way of compensating for poor maths teaching in the mainstream.
“Grade nine pupils are forced by schools to take mathematical literacy but you must aim to excel in maths. If you don’t, you will struggle to find access to obtaining an academic degree and study at the university of your choice or any university,” said Prof Jansen.
The purpose of the visit was to ignite the spirit of the girls to aim higher in their studies, to achieve quality education and to share his experience of racial issues.
The professor addressed issues he believes have an impact on young people, such as racial issues which influences lifestyle and how it affects decision making.
“You girls should aim to be better than our leaders and to make better decisions. Never doubt yourselves. It is possible that one of you is a future leader – only if you believe in yourself,” said Prof Jansen.
“Whether you are black or white, it shouldn’t matter as all of you must aim for excellence” said Prof Jansen.
“The past should not influence the future and should not hinder the future generation from working together. Inter-racial relationships and friendships should be accepted because that is the new way of life. Schools like Jeppe are testimony of progress were girls from different race and countries come together and find ways to live with each other and form friendships,” he said.
