According to Prof Linda du Plessis, the deputy vice-chancellor for planning and Vanderbijlpark campus operations, the annual winter school aims to assist learners to prepare for their final examination.
By doing so, the NWU pro-actively shapes the future for these prospective university students, since better results will ensure that they meet the admission requirements set for tertiary education. “By welcoming these learners to our campus, we are affording them the unique opportunity to realise their dreams of future success,” says Prof Du Plessis, and adds that the Winter School bridges the gap between “what if“ and “why not”.
During the course of the initiative – which will run from 25 June to 5 July – learners will benefit from an intensified focus on subjects such as mathematics, physics and chemistry, biology, geography, accounting, economics and business economics. Furthermore life skills training, time management and effective study methods will also feature.
Collaboration makes the dream work
According to Matome Kganakga, project coordinator on the campus, the Winter School not only represents a collaborative partnership between the university and the Department of Education, but also between the community and the campus community.
“Our students offer up their dorm rooms to ensure that the learners have a safe place to stay for the duration of the project. By doing this, they are levelling the playing field for these students by letting them utilise the superb infrastructure – such as Wi-Fi access, computer rooms and a state-of-the-art library – to assist in their studies. Participating learners will also enjoy getting the feel of campus life,” says Matome.
I have faith in the future of South Africa – Prof Du Plessis
According to Prof Du Plessis it is very encouraging to see how the campus’ student fraternity is embracing the project. “Our students are sharing the currency of hope with the next generation of youngsters, and because of their willingness to share their resources with those less fortunate, I have faith in the future of South Africa,” adds Prof Du Plessis.
