He is determined to make a difference in the lives of learners and to this end, Neo Sello is giving up his weekends to tutor learners.
The Buhle Park resident, who is a third-year bachelor of education student at the North-West University, Vaal-Triangle Campus (NWU-Vaal), told the GCN that his idea materialised due to the practical teaching he has to do in order to obtain his degree.
“Three times a year, the university sends us to various schools for practical teaching for nine weeks (three weeks for each practical period).
“Over my three-year period at university, I realised that a common trend in learners, mostly in township schools, ranging from primary to secondary schools, is that most learners cannot read and write.
“Hence we witness a low quality of results, not only in Grade 12 but in all grades.
“One of the reasons I’ve discovered is that the education of learners is left solely to teachers (reading and writing is placed on the shoulders of language teachers),” Neo said.
He added that school hours are hardly enough time for teachers to teach the content that the curriculum dictates them to, let alone reading and writing skills.
“Parents and the broader community, beyond the school confines, should come to the party with regard to their children’s education,” he said.
Earlier this year, Neo founded a tutoring club operating in the Vaal (Sebokeng) called Education is My Birthright Project, which focuses on reinforcing content and helping Grade 10 and 11 learners on weekends.
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“Though the project is still in its grassroots stage due to the above-mentioned issue, I’ve decided to extend the programmes the project offers.
“In addition to tutoring, there will also be reading, writing and speaking classes for Grade Eight to 11 learners.
“As I am from the area, this project will start operating in township schools around Germiston on weekends.
“I am awaiting feedback from the schools I’ve sent proposals to,” Neo said.
If anyone would like to lend a hand and assist Neo with the tutoring he would appreciate any help he can get.
“I am preferably looking for people who have passed Grade 10 or possess a higher education qualification and are based in the Rondebult, Phumula and Buhle Park areas,” he said.
“You will be working on a voluntary basis and this is a non-profit project.
“As one of the prerequisites for the learners’ safety, volunteers are also required to have a crime clearance certificate.”
To find out more about the project or to volunteer contact Neo on 079 926 5784 or email him at neosello88@gmail.com.
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