Getting to know

I check that learners are wearing the proper school uniforms.

May 1, 2021

Johann Badenhorst 2 minutes read

Boikhutso Dlamini said he has had to make many sacrifices to earn his role as head boy.

Olympia Park School’s head boy, Boikhutso Dlamini, takes great pride in his newly appointed role and wants to use the platform to motivate his peers to achieve their dreams.
How did you get this position, were you elected, and how?
My story about being a member of the Representative Council of Learners (RCL) dates back to 2018 when I first enrolled at Olympia Park. I started out as the head of sport in 2019 and at the end of 2019, I was elected to join the RCL for 2020. After we came back from lockdown level five, we had to fill in RCL application forms in order for us to be part of the nominees. They then look through the applications and vote. They announced the group for 2021 in November. I was very nervous and thought my name was not there. They announced the head leaders last and I was elected.
What extra responsibilities do you have to take on with your new role?
In terms of responsibilities, I have my own and extra responsibilities that I have to complete on a daily basis. These include checking that there is order in the school, ensuring RCL learners are on duty and making sure the school’s code of conduct is being upheld. Extra responsibilities are checking the school’s feeding scheme is running smoothly and marking the learners’ names as they come in. I also check that learners are wearing the proper school uniforms. I really want to make a difference and change people’s ideas of learners with special educational needs.

Also read: Getting to know Dr Gaontebale Onthatile Matlhaga

What sacrifices did you have to make to achieve this position?
There are so many sacrifices that I had to make, especially at school. I have learnt to sacrifice my break time and the amount of time I spend with my acquaintances and TV.
What made you decide to take on these new responsibilities?
I have seen it does not help to spend too much time on non-productive things or things that will not help bring you closer to your dream. The other reason is that a lot of children in my school have been crushed by the mentality of the public towards them, and I want them to see themselves as any normal school boy or girl. I want to motivate them to see themselves as people who will one-day complete school and contribute to the country’s economy.

Also read: Getting to know Dr Rui Graça

How have your peers, friends and family reacted?
I would say my family has reacted in the most amazing way, especially my cousins. They have been supportive and never made me feel otherwise. They are all very proud of me, and they show it.
Have the new responsibilities affected your academic work? Do you find you have to work harder?
I would not say it affected my grades, but yes, I do have to put in some extra time.
Has the position changed the way you interact with your peers and classmates?
Yes, I feel responsible to motivate them to do the right thing and listen. I have changed a lot and grown, which makes interaction different from last year. I want to be someone they look up to.
Do you think the position will increase your opportunities for university acceptance?
I think it will definitely open doors and approve my chances of whatever I take on in life.