POLOKWANE – Dikgale Academy was founded in May 2021 by Joseph Ramphao who saw a need for mathematics tutoring in the area. “I noticed that many learners were struggling with maths and I took it upon myself to host free, extra lessons for Gr 10 to 12 learners,” he told BONUS.
During the lessons, Joseph noted that learners would use their laps, the floor or each other’s backs to support their books when writing.
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“I had an idea to use old pallets to build tables for them so that they can sit and write comfortably. We approached different companies in Polokwane seeking pallets and I remembered spotting a bunch of them at NMG. That’s when we requested them.”
The first batch was collected on February 9 and the second batch was collected last Friday.
“I work with a team that specialises in working with planks and wood, so the project wasn’t too challenging because we disassembled the pallets and built the tables from scratch.”
More learners have since joined the extra lessons and have requested for science to be added to the syllabus.
“As I specialise in maths, I asked other tutors to volunteer for physics lessons and together, we take on challenging subjects.”
The extra lessons are hosted at the Mantheding Gospel Pilot Church over the weekend and during school holidays. “When I first started, I tutored alone. Today, we boast with a team of 13 volunteers and I am very grateful for them,” he said.
Joseph said the academy is inviting others to volunteer their time in tutoring other subjects they think most learners are struggling with.
“We want to thank BONUS for helping us make a difference in building a brighter future for our next generation,” Jospeh concluded.
NMG branch manager, Mario Janse van Rensburg said the pallet donation forms part of the Caxton Cares intitiative and that giving back to the community is always important.
“We think this is a great intiative and we’re proud to be a part of it. We know the impact education has on the community and if we can contribute towards it in any form, even a desk made from pallets, we’ve made a difference.”
