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Rose Act

Rose Act end year party almost brings down the house!!!

The Saturday School is based at the college, where more than 250 Alex-based learners from Grades 4 – 9 are tutored in Maths and English to supplement their formal schooling during the week. Under the able direction of the master of ceremonies, Rose-Act Co-ordinator Louise Cameron, a diverse programme of entertainment, fun and laughter was rolled out. Apart from the several award ceremonies, there were poetry readings, dance routines, plays, recitals, singing, and other items that entranced the lively, vociferous and keenly attentive audience. Next to English, isiZulu and Sepedi cropped up spontaneously on stage, which was always greeted with a roar of approval. Louise was assisted by two talented and energetic Grade 9s, Natasha and Natalie, who helped ensure that the proceedings moved along smoothly, and who also contributed to the activities in their own right. One of their jokes, directed at the audience, was: “Who would say, ‘give me water and I will die?’ The fire!” The many categories for which awards were handed out to some 40 boys and girls included: 100% class attendance and 90% attendance throughout the school year; participation and effort; performance; consistency of performance; scholarly improvement; multiplication tables, excelling at spelling bees and in general knowledge, and for other activities. A special “corner” of the programme was devoted to the recognition and appreciation of the devoted and selfless service provided by Rose-Act’s faithful corps of unpaid tutors. They were called on stage to loud cheering, and proceeded to give a heart-warming rendition of the beloved hymn, “I will follow Him”. This year there was a special emphasis on recognising former Rose-Act learners who are now busy “giving back” to their community in diverse ways. Here are some names: Baby Lwandle (stage appearance in carry-cot only). Three-month-old infant of Banele and Itumeleng Mtebele. They met while studying at Rose-Act. They are now 28 and 26. Both have degrees and “give back” regularly at Rose-Act registration. Often present to help on a Saturday morning. Nhlanhla Mchunu. Now 19. Started her own NGO in Alex, assists learners with reading and homework; promotes Lifeskills. Interns at Alex FM Radio. Encourages young people to express their views through poetry. Visits schools to donate sanitary pads for girls. Was recently nominated LeadSA Champion for October. Another former learner, Sabelo Miya, is on her team. Mpho Moloele. Voluntary staff member. Teaches the values and the ethos of the Young Bank with her team and with the support of the company she works for. This organisation teaches learners to identify community needs and how to supply those needs. At the start of this year 15 learners were chosen for the programme; 12 came regularly. Candice Sehoma. Now 26. Started an NGO called Building Blocks. Aim is to replace old bucket toilets in Alex with flushing toilets. Also runs workshops on health and sanitation. Has travelled the world as a Youth Ambassador for South Africa. Annietjie Ramatlhape. Early 40s. Although not a former learner, she put her two children through Rose-Act. Serves on the staff and sits on the Rose-Act Committee. Has volunteered to teach drama; later became a Lifeskills tutor. Moses Mhlongo. Early 40s. Co-ran Rose-Act for a few years. Was on Rose-Act committee. Lifeskills tutor. Catered for children’s refreshments. Went to work for Rays of Hope, but always kept Rose-Act in mind. Did the catering for Awards Day. Rose-Act “staff”. Former learners who come every Saturday to assist in the running of the school. Help with tutoring if asked to do so. Karabo Rakola, Mitah Nkabinde and Lebone Comakae. All currently Grade 5. Chosen by an international organisation to visit France next March after being named “Valued Citizens” in recognition of their various selfless activities and services in and for their school. Finally, the trophies for Most Outstanding Student 2016 went to: Mokgadi Ramasumo: Excellence in all areas. Mushumo Rasivhenge: Commitment in all areas. Gugulethu Mathane: Perseverance in all areas. Thabelo Nemukula: Potential in all areas. These four learners are all in Grade 9.Asked what struck her most about this year’s Awards Day, Louise commented: “It was so exciting to see more and more families support and celebrate with their children and get involved with their education.”

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