Premier motivates learners

PHOLA – Just a few weeks before the start of the matric final examinations, Phola Secondary School learners received a tongue-lashing from premier David Mabuza during his visit, which formed part
of his DD Mabuza Foundation outreach.

Phola Secondary School is one of the worst performers in its circuit and has been making headlines for
causing chaos. “I know what has been going on in this school and I told myself that one day we will meet you, and today is that day. I know that the MEC for education, Reginah Mhaule came to talk to you, but I also want to share something with you. My message is that as you grow up, you
can only learn from your parents, elders and teachers.

You need to humble yourselves and show respect at all times. It will make you better human beings. I have learnt to master the art of respect and that is why I am the premier of the province today. It is because I respected my teachers and elders and even in my position today, I still
treat everyone with respect,” he lashed out.

“It is unbelievably shocking and out of hand that you as learners can raise your hands at your teachers, who try to give you the key to success and a better life. It is wrong and you
lack respect and vision, because if you had those things, you would never do the things you are doing in this school. These teachers are here to guide you.

“They are here to build and shape your future. They are your parents so treat them with the respect they deserve,” said a fuming Mabuza.

As part of his DD Mabuza Foundation work, Mabuza visited three local schools,where apart from donating school uniforms and laptops to the teachers, he adopted learners whom he has committed to support during their school career.

In total Mabuza donated 600 school uniforms, 70 laptops and soccer and netball kits to all three schools through his foundation.

“We are trying in our small way to motivate the learners and teachers. Remember, from grade one until you complete matric it is indeed a long journey. Both the learners and the teachers get tired
along the way and get demoralised and end up not continuing with the journey.

“We are therefore motivating them so that they will continue. It is unfortunate that some of these resources are not available in our schools in the rural areas. We are falling
behind in terms of these skills, which are crucial, especially at tertiary level.

“It is in our hands to support them wherever we could, because one day they will be the best and we will all be proud of them. Some of us are what we are today, because we have all gone through the hands of the teachers. These children will one day help their families escape from poverty,”
said Mabuza.