As many learners struggle with their schoolwork one parent took it upon herself to step in and make a difference.
Zinhle Ntungwa, a resident of George Kerridge, made the decision to help learners by opening the doors of her registered after-care, named Mntungwa Aftercare, at the community hall in February earlier this year. Catering from Grade R to Grade 8, the after-care serves its purpose to help learners with their homework in all subjects, which has resulted in great report cards for many learners in the community.
It all started when Ntungwa, who has a 10-year-old son, decided to bring him from the Eastern Cape to be with her.
With learner placement an issue on the West Coast as at many schools, space was only available for her son in a Afrikaans classroom even though he did not understand the language.
“I decided that I was going to teach my child on my own. I saw that I had influence to teach children,” said Ntungwa.
She noted this to be a challenge for many learners and parents being in desperate need for help as their children were not excelling in the classroom as they should.
“I started with 16 learners and the numbers grew to up to 70,” said Ntungwa. “I am very proud of these kids. At the beginning a child would come to the after-care with 1% on their report card and later it went up 80% or even 90%.
“I am like a proud mother and I just pray for them. I am also thankful for my sister, who has been a great support system from the beginning.”
What is also great for her is hearing about the positive impact the after-care has as the children are no longer spending their time on the streets, but rather in the books.
“Another thing is I would like provide the children with a meal, as many of them come straight from school and are hungry. A sponsor for food will be very helpful. I am trying to buy snacks out of my own pocket, but its getting difficult as the numbers are growing every day.”
Ntungwa’s big dream is to have a bigger space and classrooms, so the children can focus on their work. Seeing them flourish is her mission.
Should you wish to help Ntungwa contact her on 084 511 6718.
