Learners from across the country came together to lay down their emotional experiences of learning under lockdown.
In the hands of its new ownership and management, CNA has reverted back to publishing after 50 years and the latest title under its belt is Learning Under Lockdown. The book sought the contributions of hundreds of South Africa’s children unpacking their learning experiences through the pandemic.
Over 640 essays were submitted by learners in schools in all nine provinces, including Sandton’s very own Brescia House School, Crawford College Sandton, Lycée Jules Verne, Redhill School and St Stithians Girls’ College.
In the end 400 essays were chosen and compiled into a book by renowned educator Professor Jonathan Jansen and Emily O’Ryan. The book highlights that various perspectives and personal challenges that the learners are faced with.
According to the pair, the book was aimed at telling the stories of the youngsters, providing them with a space to share how they were coping during this extraordinary time. It was clear that each experience was significant and individualistic.
They noted that the essays revealed something ‘unshakeably’ positive about the country’s youth – the depth of their resilience, patience and perseverance.
“The lockdown is a blessing in disguise. In some way or another it will give me direction,” wrote St Stithians learner Laila Albarudi.
The 17-year-old saw the lockdown as an opportunity to take a step back and gather her thoughts. “Before things were going too fast for me and there was nothing that I could do about it said Laila.
Fellow schoolmate Daisy Ndebele, however, found the lockdown to be emotionally challenging which is why she decided to enter her essay. “I found it hard to actually find an escape, get away from everything and do something that I like,” she said.
The book did present an opportunity for the young 17-year-old as she has a dream to one day become a published author.
Redhill School learner Gemma Muller added while the opportunity provided her with an outlet for her anxiety, it is important for her to bring attention to the fact that she does attend a private school with the resources for online learning.
“This is not the case with everyone. I could sit here and complain that I am missing my matric dance but someone else is worrying about the quality of their education,” said the 18-year-old.
Gemma did in fact win the writing competition in its entirety, a truly exciting moment for her. “I felt so accomplished because I did something people will be able to see and read about my experiences and my thoughts through this period in history,” she said.
The book Learning Under Lockdown is available at selected CNA stores countrywide.
To view more photos, don’t miss this weeks’ Chronicle newspaper.
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