The Sunday News
Thobekile Khumalo, Sunday News Reporter
GIRLS and boys should be accorded the same opportunities in education so that every child gains the skills needed to develop themselves and the nation.
This was said by the Member of Parliament for Umzingwane, Retired Brigadier-General Levi Mayihlome during a speech and prize giving day ceremony at Mzinyathi Primary School on Friday.
Rtd Brig-General Mayihlome, who was also a pupil in 1967 at the school donated $400 to the school’s drama club, Vuyisile Drama Group. It was in that year that he completed his Standard 6 with flying colours at Mzinyathi and was named the best pupil in Umzingwane District.
“Girls are no less than their male counterparts so they should be presented with the same opportunities as boys unlike in the past. No one should drop out because she will be married off and the same applies to boys, no student should be denied the right to education and sent off to be utsheketsha,” he said.
The MP said education is an investment that parents should be proud of.
“Parents should never look at education as an expense but rather as an investment by doing so paying the required levies and fees so that the learning environment becomes conducive for both the learner and the teacher.
“Teachers, parents and students are encouraged to be equally involved in the new curriculum so that students are empowered,” he said.
Rtd Brig-General Mayihlome encouraged pupils to choose career paths before they leave primary school.
“Students should know what they want to be at a young age so that when they proceed to high school, they already have role models.
“Opportunities are like appearing targets so learners, you have to make your moments here worthwhile,” he said.
He also encouraged the school to put the money paid to good use.
“I encourage the school authorities to use the money that is paid wisely and acquire resources needed by the school in order to create a favourable environment.
“As Umzingwane District, we should be able to produce students who are competitive enough to go to universities, colleges and even schools in town with the knowledge they acquire, ICT skills and arts performing being taught,” said Rtd Brig-Gen Mayihlome.
“Today I was so proud when I saw the Vuyisile Drama Group performing and I could tell that here in Umzingwane we have a talent that can even compete on the global stage.”
He applauded the school for doing well academically in 2018.
“I am proud that the school last year produced good results and also produced the best student in the district in the Grade 7 examination. This shows the commitment that the teachers are putting despite the difficult economy that is prevailing,” he said.
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