How to support and assist schools during the COVID-19 pandemic
“Education is the passport to the future, for tomorrow belongs to those who prepare for it today.” - Malcolm X.
You don't need us to tell you how important education is.
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Every human being has the right to an education and deserves to have a proper learning experience.
Although this is sadly not the reality.
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The education system has faced many struggles, with some kids not being able to attend school at all and students not being able to continue their studies because of a lack of funding.
Add a worldwide pandemic with people being forced to stay at home and more problems begin to pop up.
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While teachers, parents, and the kids had to adapt to homeschooling, the principals, who have to carry the weight of the whole school on their shoulders, have faced their own challenges.
Now Symphonia for South Africa is an organisation that focuses on working with leaders to help them with their development while maximising their talent, energy, and creativity.
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Their current programme in South Africa is the Partners for Possibility programme.
On their website, they describe the programme as: "a creative solution to South Africa' education crisis - it is a co-action, co-learning partnership between School Principals and Business Leaders, enabling social cohesion through partnerships, and empowering Principals to become change leaders in their schools and communities. The Partners for Possibility Programme facilitates cross-sectoral reciprocal partnerships between Business, Government and the Social Sector."
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Carol Ofori had the opportunity to talk to Penny Shozi, who is a Learning Process Facilitator for Symphonia, and they discussed how the pandemic has affected not only their programme, but also the education system as a whole.
Take a listen to find out more about this incredible organisation's initiative and what you might be able to do to assist them during this difficult time:
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Main image courtesy of iStock