Retired teacher launches learning centre

A retired teacher has launched his learning centre officially in Mohlakeng.

The event which attracted scores of young people who are seeking assistance with their school work was held at the Manzi Funeral Parlour Chapel in Mohlakeng.

Also read: Retired teacher to launch learning centre in Mohlakeng

The proceedings that got underway shortly after 10:00 and ended at noon were aimed at informing community members about the services offered by the learning centre, which are free of charge and are of benefit to school children in the area. It was also with the aim of attracting more learners who might not have known about the learning centre and the benefits they can reap from it.

Speaking to the Herald at the event, Director of the Excellence Academy Extra Lessons and Learning Centre, Tshidiso Motingoe said the centre that was established in 2014 had grown over the years.

“Although we have been operating for some years, those who were aware of our services were mainly from Mohlakeng Extension 5 as they were within our reach.

The whole purpose of this launch was to let the larger community in different parts of Mohlakeng know about the learning centre and our services. We also wanted to spread the word that we are available to assist school children who are facing challenges with their school work, free of charge,” said Motingoe.

The learning centre assists learners with homework, extra lessons and catch-up classes at no cost. It also helps secure learnerships for students who are qualified in their respective fields but are without employment. This is done by exposing them to companies who offer them skills development training. These learners will then walk away with a certificate of competence that puts them in a better position to secure employment or to start their own businesses.

Sibongile Thekisa, a Mohlakeng resident and mother to two young boys aged 10 and 14 said her children were benefiting from the learning centre.

“My children attend the learning centre after their normal school hours and are reaping the benefits already. They are being helped with homework and other academic activities.

So far, my children are showing progress in their school work and that’s what I was hoping for,” said Thekisa.

Mantingoe called local businesses to support this initiative and thanked those who contributed to the launch.

“We are truly grateful to Manzi Funeral Parlour, Select PPE and Shamrock Christian Schools from where the preparations are made for the lessons. We would also love to have more people join us as we need partners and sponsors to help with the smooth running of the programme. Our work has been characterised by good results and changes that parents can attest to,” said Motingoe.

Those who attended the official launch were from Westgold Primary School, Tswelelo Primary School, Mohlakano Primary School, Matlapaneng Primary School, Laerskool Modderfontein and Rand View College, among others.