VRYHEID KZN: Schoolchildren told not to ‘gamble’ with life

On Wednesday morning last week, Great Bingo Vryheid staff visited two local schools as a way of giving back to the community. They first visited Amakhwatha Primary School and then proceeded to Mpofini High School. Comedians Simphiwe Vilakazi and his twin brother (known as Amawele aseChesterville) were also present during the school visits. Simpiwe said to the primary school children, “We are here to encourage you young ones to continue respecting your elders, teachers and life in general. Continue to pass your grades so you can move on to the high school phase and remember that no one has the right to bully anyone here at school.” The members of Great Bingo added that, “It shouldn’t only be about the development of businesses and communities. Schools shouldn’t be left out, as education is important”. The Grade 7 learners were told to respect their teachers, parents at home and people in the community, as they will be moving to another phase next year, which is high school. Simpiwe told them to build their foundation strong and stay away from substance abuse. At Mpofini High School, the learners were also encouraged to continue to work hard in the classroom. One of the twin brothers shared their life journey and told the learners that they grew up with nothing and failed at high school a couple of times, but they never gave up. They grew up with their mother, who was not earning much and they hardly had any money at home, but today they are respected all around the country as well-known comedians. “You are the only one who knows your situation at home and you are the only one who can change it. You might come here to school and see your peers doing all sorts of different things, but never forget that your family is depending on you to change your background. Stay away from drugs, because it starts with one ‘pull’ of a cigarette and then ‘weed’, and then you need a much stronger drug, which could end up being heroin. So continue to build yourselves and make that foundation strong by studying hard. Keep in mind that one day your family will be respected because of you,” Simphiwe said. Sanitary towels were donated at both schools and the learners were told that if anyone needs them (sanitary towels), they can be obtained from their teachers. ALSO READ:Pastors provide stationery to schoolchildren Make sure you follow us on our social media platforms for regular updates