Since the past two years have been difficult for learners all around the world, three former matrics from a local school decided to share their journey as learners during these unprecedented times.
They are Leriche Fourie, Zee-Jay Ngwenya and Kreety Panday who matriculated from St Catherine’s Convent School last year. According to the three friends it was crucial to make the best of strange and unpredictable times.
No matter what Covid-19 might have thrown at them, they stuck together and kept each other motivated throughout the past two years. When the nation went into hard lockdown, they knew that things were about to change.
Even though the transition was challenging, they soon realised that the virtual learning environment provided many opportunities for rich interaction and optimal learning.
“We were fortunate enough to have had all the necessary resources to study from home. We are also lucky to have had no academic disruptions as all our classes carried on as usual – only online. We got through all our work and were sufficiently prepared for all our exams,” Kreety explained.
However, Leriche continued, they missed out on many exciting experiences that come with being a high school learner. “… social events, fun gatherings, sporting events and so much more; being a house captain and cheering your house on at sporting events. It’s something we’ve been looking forward to since we were new to the school. And now, we’ve just missed that opportunity and it’s something we’ll never get back,” she said.
“It’s sad because I was supposed to be the first team hockey captain, Zee-Jay the cross-country captain and Kreety the public speaking and chess captain.”
Even though they went back to school when the Covid restrictions were lifted, it wasn’t the same.
“We had to keep our distance all the time. Dots had been sprayed onto the field where we were allowed to sit. It was strange at first but I think we got used to it pretty quickly. Luckily we can laugh about it now,” Zee-Jay said.
Despite having missed out on a lot, they remain hopeful for the future and excited to start paving their way in the adult world. These best friends can’t wait to start their new chapters together, hopefully at the University of the Witwatersrand. With a bond as strong as steel they hope to motivate and encourage one another for years to come.
