A Kouga high school has been employing drastic tactics to improve its matric results.
Lungiso Public School at KwaNomzamo, Humansdorp, has for the past three years held matric camps which require all their Grade 12 learners to remain on the school grounds for the duration of their final examinations.
The programme has enabled the school to improve its matric pass rate from a dismal 47% in 2012 to more than 80% over the past three years.
The school is aiming for a 90% minimum this year.
School principal Sebenzile Hoko said the success of the programme relied on the commitment of the teachers, who receive nothing extra to supervise learners after hours, and a high level of discipline from those writing.
“Our school does not have a hostel, which means learners have to make do with classrooms as sleeping quarters. Together with the School Governing Body and parents, we try to make the environment as homely as possible for the youngsters,” he said.
Hoko said the school adopted the radical approach to give their learners the best chance they could and to win back the confidence of the community in the school.
“There are many social factors which impede on learners’ ability to study when they are at home,” he said.
The daily programme consists of physical training, prayer services and study sessions.
Meals are prepared and served on site three times a day and this is mostly where the school needs a hand.
“We serve a poor community, which means we have to rely on good Samaritans to ensure that no learner writes on an empty stomach,” said Hoko.
I would personally like to congratulate the school for their efforts in improving education.
What they have achieved, is phenomenal. I applaud all involved in this initiative to help ensure that poverty does not become an educational impediment for our children.
I urge those who could make contributions to do so as this would go towards a good cause.
People who wish to know how to help Lungiso with any of the basic needs can contact Mr Hoko on 073 206 6887 or the Secretary Nangamso Mnaphu on 072 560 3080.
Regards
Elza
kougademocrat 
Leave a Reply