A group of pupils recently received an opportunity to refocus and adopt the right attitude to evolve into the next era of leaders in the Cookhouse community and beyond.
Sipho Camagu High School and Johnson Nqonqoza High School pupils participated in a residential academy through the Columba Leadership Programme.
Funded by the Cookhouse Wind Farm, the initiative equips pupils with leadership values and skills, providing an opportunity for them to focus on personal development, teamwork and problem-solving while fostering a sense of responsibility towards their community.
Academy faculty facilitator Siphe Mntonintshi said the activities centred on six core values — awareness, focus, creativity, integrity, perseverance and service.
“The programme gives young people the opportunity to learn and sharpen essential 21st-century skills, such as leadership and problem-solving, that will be useful beyond the classroom.
“It also provides them with a safe space to explore their potential and build confidence, helping them realise their capacity to influence change as young leaders,” Mntonintshi said.
The residential academy took place over several days with 12 pupils, two teachers and the principal of the participating school joining the sessions.
The academy uses an experiential learning approach, challenging the participants to explore innovative solutions to common issues faced by schools and communities.
Upon completing the academy, pupils graduate into a service-orientated phase where they implement social action projects addressing the identified challenges.
Johnson Nqonqoza High School deputy principal Darryl Barlow said the programme had transformed how he related to pupils and colleagues and had contributed to a positive shift in the school’s culture.
“Before my involvement with Columba, I was very strict with learners and had little sympathy for those who didn’t perform well academically.
“Through this programme, I’ve realised that while some learners may not excel academically, they have other talents and good attributes that can be nurtured,” Barlow said.
With plans for continued support over the next two years, the programme aims to integrate values-based leadership and positive youth engagement in the schools, contributing to the long-term growth and development of pupils and their communities.
HeraldLIVE
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