NEWS
African Local Summit 2012 - Ghana
SO here I sit in Ghana; waiting in a hot and humid domestic airport waiting for my next flight to Kumasi after landing in Ghana (Accra) last night from JHB. Ghana is a tropical climate with friendly people and a sense of community spirit. Colours are everywhere; in the clothing; in the language (what a gorgeous accent); and of course the colourful manner in which time happens here in Africa.
Booking a flight internally here meant that we contacted AntrakAir 2 weeks ago to make sure I had a flight to Kumasi. But the payment had to be done in person here in Accra….unfortunately that would mean a flight to Accra to pay for a flight needed only 2 weeks later. Not a problem; the payment deadline was extended to manage our obvious logistical difficulties. Arriving here at 7am I proceed to the counter to pay…no credit card facilities; please proceed to an ATM in the other building in order to draw cash. Walking with 3 bags to the ATM I need to now draw Ghanaian currency but my fare is in US$ and I have to find someone to convert for me. Happily outsourcing this to a friendly Ghanaian person we conclude the transaction and pay (after the long walk back). And the flight details have changed: I am now leaving at 11am; so first order of business is to find a seat as close to an air-conditioning unit as possible; to stave off the humidity and heat which renders everyone sweaty and moist… I don’t spend time in KZN in December for this reason and here I am; thinking of the business suits in my suitcase; in Ghana for 6 days and totally unprepared for this stifling heat. Ruth (my host and friend from SA) last night gifted me with hankies for mopping my brow…thank heavens for that. My flight was marred last night by a fat white man who travels regularly to Africa; but continues to carry a massive chip on his massive sweaty shoulder. His negativity and complaining attitude was enough to almost incite me to smack him. juxtaposed to the wonderful Ghanaian man in the seat in front of me who giggled (after hauling what appeared to be 15 tangled cables from his bag) when I asked him if he was assembling a bomb. His broad white smile and genuine delight at this joke made me feel connected to him immediately; while the Afrikaner bull next to me exuded apartheid and colonialist stink. |
Ruth shared some context with me this morning: Ghanaians are happy and effusive people; they extend a helping hand and their laid back style causes them to adhere to Miguel Ruiz’s rule in the 4 agreements: don’t take anything
personally. Their sense of community means that the context of development and work is: we cannot do anything alone; we have to do it together. God seems to have deposited me here for a reason. Our systemic framework says exactly that…we have to do it together if we are to have any meaningful impact. For those who know me well…I am perceived to be extrovert and love people; but at heart I find it hard to really enjoy people all the time. I have to regularly spend time alone reflecting and breathing…before diving back in to real life community. God also decided in His wisdom to gift me with a new family of many children and many extended people; to further stretch my sense of connectedness which dad loved and ascribed to. I am starting to understand and feel what dad lived each moment. Holding out my hand in partnership is key to these processes and who better to do it than someone who finds it incredibly challenging…what a great sense of humour God has. And yet I know it is the answer to so many of our developmental challenges. Connecting deeply and recovering the soul of these lost communities brings an injection of energy which can overcome any and all. |
Onto more mundane things. I arrived in Kumasi on a very bad flight. After being delayed and waiting from 7am to 11:45 am I finally embarked on the
flight. I had a raging headache and was desperately in need of a lie-down. The air conditioning in the plane was broken and the heat was stifling. Since the
flight was only 35 minutes I thought I would be fine…I asked for a coke to settle my queasy stomach and downed it to quench my thirst and hopefully send
some sugar to my system which was feeling very sick at this point.
Almost there we started to feel air turbulence. I was bounced up and down in my seat as the plane was thrown around. And with that I got violently ill…the poor
lady next to me tried as hard as possible to climb up the window to get away from me. I couldn’t stop; once I had started I couldn’t stop. And I continued to
do this until the plane landed; with extra tissues and air hostesses trying to get me to stop. Finally off the plane; ego in my sick bag and feeling worse than ever I walked into a humid and hot Kumasi. I was picked up by the ALS hosts who did not like the look of me at all; finally arriving at the Brew-Hammonds (I asked to be dropped off as I couldn’t face the reception for the summit). I took a valoid and some water. And being shown to my room proceeded to get sick again; finally cleaning myself momentarily and then falling asleep for an hour.
On rising I was weak and dehydrated. I changed my clothes and went downstairs to sit with Aba who made me some soup and let me eat this slowly. My minerals were out of sync and my arms and legs were tingling. Spasms drew my hands into claws and I clutched my soup spoon in a fist as I attempted to feed my body after a traumatic day.
flight. I had a raging headache and was desperately in need of a lie-down. The air conditioning in the plane was broken and the heat was stifling. Since the
flight was only 35 minutes I thought I would be fine…I asked for a coke to settle my queasy stomach and downed it to quench my thirst and hopefully send
some sugar to my system which was feeling very sick at this point.
Almost there we started to feel air turbulence. I was bounced up and down in my seat as the plane was thrown around. And with that I got violently ill…the poor
lady next to me tried as hard as possible to climb up the window to get away from me. I couldn’t stop; once I had started I couldn’t stop. And I continued to
do this until the plane landed; with extra tissues and air hostesses trying to get me to stop. Finally off the plane; ego in my sick bag and feeling worse than ever I walked into a humid and hot Kumasi. I was picked up by the ALS hosts who did not like the look of me at all; finally arriving at the Brew-Hammonds (I asked to be dropped off as I couldn’t face the reception for the summit). I took a valoid and some water. And being shown to my room proceeded to get sick again; finally cleaning myself momentarily and then falling asleep for an hour.
On rising I was weak and dehydrated. I changed my clothes and went downstairs to sit with Aba who made me some soup and let me eat this slowly. My minerals were out of sync and my arms and legs were tingling. Spasms drew my hands into claws and I clutched my soup spoon in a fist as I attempted to feed my body after a traumatic day.
Day 2 in Ghana :
Day 2 Seems to be better. The summit started an hour and half late. The speakers have been interesting and scintillating. They are animated and passionate. The audience is diverse and interested although some have fallen asleep during some of the more dull speakers (dull presentations but great information). Strong colourful accents make me concentrate to understand their speeches and contexts. Everybody here is learned. They understand the various UN treaties and statutes. They have a gifted sense of the continent they live in; and are challenged each day to make a difference. I am humbled by their passion and intellect. Most of them have completed Masters or Doctorates. Studying and academic pursuits are a vital ingredient in development in Africa. After a snack and drink I am feeling stronger today for the afternoon. The Drew-Hammonds are a gift to me. A God send. Gentle loving Ghanaian people and have taken care of me despite me arriving bedraggled; pale and sick at their door. They are generous community driven people who are sincere in their home and consciousness. |
Day 3 in Ghana:
Another day of conference and African time presides as a dominant theme. It was mentioned explicitly yesterday as something which would not be helpful; and all the delegates agreed that 9am would be a good time to meet and convene to start. It is now 9:30 and most delegates are not here. There is no panic; we are all waiting and enjoying the gentle breeze coming in through the doors; I am dressed in a suit today to do my presentation and would rather be dressed like the US students here; hair up; slops and very casual clothing which suits this balmy humid weather. I learnt today that Ghana has the fastest growing economy in the world; not in absolute terms but certainly in percentage growth. I am impressed with the Ghanaian people: warm (like their climate); friendly and personable. Tall, well-built and dark which makes their frequent smiles seem even broader and more pronounced. I’m calm for my presentation; I have become accustomed to talking about our work; to articulate and explain the way we work and what we believe in; for changing lives. I have no doubts that the learned professors and doctors speaking at this conference are way ahead of me intellectually; but what I do know is that I know people; I can make connections and make things work in people; I build trust and that I am built fit for purpose. God made me this way; my curiosity about what works and doesn’t; what makes things tick; how to process things to make them easier and faster. How to make the connections which will make things work; and ease blockages. I always had an intense frustration with systems which didn’t work; and which took too much time. How to streamline; how to increase the pace; to deliver better results for less effort. Working with people is harder and more challenging but herein lies the gem: people are the things which make systems work; when the people work so do the systems. They are mutually interdependent; not mutually exclusive. Our SA government forgets that we work with people to effect change; changing the curriculum does nothing…changing the people changes everything. |
DAY 4 in Ghana :
Connected with an amazing man from Nigeria. He is 36 and very passionate about Nigeria. He is a quantity surveyor and works as one; in alongside being general
secretary of an NGO looking at climate change as well as being a journalist providing commentary on the state of Nigeria and where things need to change for the country to better itself. These journalistic articles are published in a book; covering the last 10 years of his published statements. He is sad about the corruption and the lack of Nigeria to improve the lot of the people in his country. He has a broad smile and his adage is : no more rhetoric; it is time for action.
My deep sadness is that this young man is planning to leave Nigeria as soon as he can get safe passage to another country. He is hoping to go to the US or the UK; because he no longer sees a way through the Nigerian mess. He does not believe that he can effect any kind of change in his country; because there is no leadership in his country to take it into the future. I am devastated for him and for Africa. Jiba is a man of high integrity. He is deeply called to make a difference but after 10 years of honest reflection in articles (well written pieces; beautifully scribed) he feels nothing he does is going to help. I have no doubt that he will make his way to the UK or US; and offer his vast skills to another country where his opinion will be valued; and perhaps he can help from afar. His wife is a bio-chemist so the pair of them would be welcomed in most countries.
I have also met many Masters students who are in Ghana to do their internships: social workers; sociologists; quantity surveyors. They are all excitable and wide eyed with enthusiasm for the development work they do. One wonderful couple (early 20’s): she started a project 2 years ago. Getting peer learning networks going; and her boyfriend who is Egyptian quit his job to join her to assist in making her project more financially sustainable. They argue and debate the nuances of the project; and
which direction to go in. She presented their work and was charming in her honesty of how nervous she was to talk to all of us. After her presentation she was inundated with so many requests…as her project is well defined; practical and scalable from day 1. I learnt a lot from this remarkable young lady. We could certainly do with more of her in the world. Her boyfriend is awesome: honest and straight talking; he wants to mobilise change as fast as possible. They make the
most amazing couple and give me hope for the world. I may even change my mind about Americans after this trip. 2 young men (social work trained) have started a mentoring programme in a children’s home here in Accra. They are wonderful: both passionate and both excited and keen to make their mark. I love their wide-eyed joy at being here J they are both emotionally so switched on; and are going to be fantastic social workers. Adam wanted me to organise a mental health seminar week (all funded) in SA; we just have to cover travel…for his family who have a grant for the work…training 25 people…so I am sure that I will go back and rustle up the
funds when I am home.
Onto mundane things such as bathing. Bathing with only cold water from a bucket is refreshing and not as revolting as I first thought. I have to use a tiny pail;
getting water out of a bucket; standing in a bath. There isn’t enough water pressure to get water to the second floor so this is a concession to get clean. Luckily it is hot here so bathing in cold water is actually quite pleasant. And washing off the grime of the day in this heat really changes the perspective of how you get it done…it really doesn’t matter as long as you get some water on you.
Aba has organised for me to have a dress made. I have to leave here with a great African frock; and she has also organised for some clothes to be brought here so that I can buy some to take back. Not having a car is quite inconvenient but driving on the right hand side of the road in Ghana isn’t something to take on lightly so I guess I am at peace with being reliant on assistance from Aba and Abeeku for lifts.
Tomorrow we go on a tour; and see the countryside. I am keen to get home; missing my bedroom and my shower! Such small things to be missing. I am also missing my boys. Living with Matt and Nic brings me so much joy. Even the early morning trips to school and late night fetching from obscure places and after ridiculous things
like school plays….is a big part of the feeling of family I have with them. I am sure they are living the life in Switzerland and looking forward to their time on the ship around Italy. Most importantly this is time with Mike. It is so good for them to be with him for extended periods of time. They can really bond at times like these.
I have eaten some very stodgy food. Lots of bread and wheat (when there is nothing else you tend to eat anything). The food is heavy and my body is feeling it. I am feeling the need to detox when I am back. Water is given to us every day at the conference as nobody drinks the local water. So I am hydrated. I ate some grapes last night and loved the juiciness….and the cool flesh. Funnily enough we eat a lot of hot (temp) food; even though it is very hot here and we would need more fresh foods to offset that.
What I am learning here is what the most important things are. Prof Abeeku is a heavyweight here. He chairs the board of the energy commission here in Ghana.
But he lives simply and the important things are top of his priority list. His home is a home…not a house; and you can sense the love here. He doesn’t have running water in his house and his car battery is dead; but he defines himself by his character and his BEING. His wife Aba is the same: she lectures to publishing students here at KNUST and works with seminarians too; training them in communication skills and literacy. She is staunch catholic and unwavering in her faith. Her humility and character are so alluring; with a “no flies on her approach to life” although she delights in watching premier league football; squealing when someone misses an obvious chance at goal. They both see God in everyday life; something we miss in Sandton (I say this specifically) because of the hunger for acquiring more and more every day. We miss the joy of simple living.
Last day: very hot today; no rain to cool the air. After much juggling with cars I spend the afternoon with Oliver; a guy from SA; at the hotel in air conditioning; before driving to the airport. Arriving at 3:30 just in case I am told that my flight is cancelled and no alternate arrangements have been made. The staff don’t seem to care that I will miss my connection to SA; all other flights (2) are full and a bus journey taking 6 to 7 hours is all that is possible (after an hour to get to the station to see if I can get a bus ticket). I am desperate to get home. So I rustle up 2 other men who are also headed to Accra and we hire a land cruiser with a driver who is confident that
he can get us to Accra by 8pm. I had checked in online already so all I need to do is drop my bags at 9:30 pm for a 10:30 flight to JHB.
Deal done (at enormous expense – but missing an SA flight to JHB on Holy Thursday before Easter weekend may mean that I am stuck in Ghana for at least another 4 to 5 days. It is something I cannot even begin to contemplate. We set off. Going on back roads to avoid traffic in Kumasi; we spend 40 minutes driving and are still in Kumasi. Accra is 293 km away. And it is now 4:40pm.
We eventually get to the main highway to Accra. One badly tarred road to Accra. Sharing this one lane with buses; massive construction trucks; beaten up trucks; cars; people and dust. And SPEED BUMPS!! I am starting to realise that 300km is not a 3 hour journey.
We complete 200 km and it is only 7:00pm. I am confident that we will be fine. 100km left and 2.5 hours left before bag drop time but then the Ghanaian gentleman sitting next to me on the back seat tells me the road gets worse from here! Worse?
How could it be??? 40 – 50 km of road construction where corrugated sand roads and potholes are KING. It is dark now and there are no lights except for the car lights; 2 parallel corrugated sand roads diverge and meet at various intervals. One is the new road; one the old road. Everybody on the road chooses which one to use and we start to weave through oncoming traffic and around trucks and buses. I am terrified and stressed. Asking the guys in the car what our ETA is so I can alert Oliver who is speaking to SAA (he made it on the other flight with Starbow). The answer is “we will be there soon; we are sure we will make it”which doesn’t help me at all.
After being completely stressed for hours I am finally dropped at the airport in Accra at 9:31pm! I race in and drop my bags; go through
passport and customs and then board the flight. I am so relieved to have made it that the poor guy next to me has to listen to my excited rambling. Finally home at 6:30am the next morning I am so happy to be back in SA. A hot shower awaits.
This has been an eye opener for me. Gender issues and poverty is spoken about regularly.
The needs are great and development is a key part of the process of real change in SA.
Connected with an amazing man from Nigeria. He is 36 and very passionate about Nigeria. He is a quantity surveyor and works as one; in alongside being general
secretary of an NGO looking at climate change as well as being a journalist providing commentary on the state of Nigeria and where things need to change for the country to better itself. These journalistic articles are published in a book; covering the last 10 years of his published statements. He is sad about the corruption and the lack of Nigeria to improve the lot of the people in his country. He has a broad smile and his adage is : no more rhetoric; it is time for action.
My deep sadness is that this young man is planning to leave Nigeria as soon as he can get safe passage to another country. He is hoping to go to the US or the UK; because he no longer sees a way through the Nigerian mess. He does not believe that he can effect any kind of change in his country; because there is no leadership in his country to take it into the future. I am devastated for him and for Africa. Jiba is a man of high integrity. He is deeply called to make a difference but after 10 years of honest reflection in articles (well written pieces; beautifully scribed) he feels nothing he does is going to help. I have no doubt that he will make his way to the UK or US; and offer his vast skills to another country where his opinion will be valued; and perhaps he can help from afar. His wife is a bio-chemist so the pair of them would be welcomed in most countries.
I have also met many Masters students who are in Ghana to do their internships: social workers; sociologists; quantity surveyors. They are all excitable and wide eyed with enthusiasm for the development work they do. One wonderful couple (early 20’s): she started a project 2 years ago. Getting peer learning networks going; and her boyfriend who is Egyptian quit his job to join her to assist in making her project more financially sustainable. They argue and debate the nuances of the project; and
which direction to go in. She presented their work and was charming in her honesty of how nervous she was to talk to all of us. After her presentation she was inundated with so many requests…as her project is well defined; practical and scalable from day 1. I learnt a lot from this remarkable young lady. We could certainly do with more of her in the world. Her boyfriend is awesome: honest and straight talking; he wants to mobilise change as fast as possible. They make the
most amazing couple and give me hope for the world. I may even change my mind about Americans after this trip. 2 young men (social work trained) have started a mentoring programme in a children’s home here in Accra. They are wonderful: both passionate and both excited and keen to make their mark. I love their wide-eyed joy at being here J they are both emotionally so switched on; and are going to be fantastic social workers. Adam wanted me to organise a mental health seminar week (all funded) in SA; we just have to cover travel…for his family who have a grant for the work…training 25 people…so I am sure that I will go back and rustle up the
funds when I am home.
Onto mundane things such as bathing. Bathing with only cold water from a bucket is refreshing and not as revolting as I first thought. I have to use a tiny pail;
getting water out of a bucket; standing in a bath. There isn’t enough water pressure to get water to the second floor so this is a concession to get clean. Luckily it is hot here so bathing in cold water is actually quite pleasant. And washing off the grime of the day in this heat really changes the perspective of how you get it done…it really doesn’t matter as long as you get some water on you.
Aba has organised for me to have a dress made. I have to leave here with a great African frock; and she has also organised for some clothes to be brought here so that I can buy some to take back. Not having a car is quite inconvenient but driving on the right hand side of the road in Ghana isn’t something to take on lightly so I guess I am at peace with being reliant on assistance from Aba and Abeeku for lifts.
Tomorrow we go on a tour; and see the countryside. I am keen to get home; missing my bedroom and my shower! Such small things to be missing. I am also missing my boys. Living with Matt and Nic brings me so much joy. Even the early morning trips to school and late night fetching from obscure places and after ridiculous things
like school plays….is a big part of the feeling of family I have with them. I am sure they are living the life in Switzerland and looking forward to their time on the ship around Italy. Most importantly this is time with Mike. It is so good for them to be with him for extended periods of time. They can really bond at times like these.
I have eaten some very stodgy food. Lots of bread and wheat (when there is nothing else you tend to eat anything). The food is heavy and my body is feeling it. I am feeling the need to detox when I am back. Water is given to us every day at the conference as nobody drinks the local water. So I am hydrated. I ate some grapes last night and loved the juiciness….and the cool flesh. Funnily enough we eat a lot of hot (temp) food; even though it is very hot here and we would need more fresh foods to offset that.
What I am learning here is what the most important things are. Prof Abeeku is a heavyweight here. He chairs the board of the energy commission here in Ghana.
But he lives simply and the important things are top of his priority list. His home is a home…not a house; and you can sense the love here. He doesn’t have running water in his house and his car battery is dead; but he defines himself by his character and his BEING. His wife Aba is the same: she lectures to publishing students here at KNUST and works with seminarians too; training them in communication skills and literacy. She is staunch catholic and unwavering in her faith. Her humility and character are so alluring; with a “no flies on her approach to life” although she delights in watching premier league football; squealing when someone misses an obvious chance at goal. They both see God in everyday life; something we miss in Sandton (I say this specifically) because of the hunger for acquiring more and more every day. We miss the joy of simple living.
Last day: very hot today; no rain to cool the air. After much juggling with cars I spend the afternoon with Oliver; a guy from SA; at the hotel in air conditioning; before driving to the airport. Arriving at 3:30 just in case I am told that my flight is cancelled and no alternate arrangements have been made. The staff don’t seem to care that I will miss my connection to SA; all other flights (2) are full and a bus journey taking 6 to 7 hours is all that is possible (after an hour to get to the station to see if I can get a bus ticket). I am desperate to get home. So I rustle up 2 other men who are also headed to Accra and we hire a land cruiser with a driver who is confident that
he can get us to Accra by 8pm. I had checked in online already so all I need to do is drop my bags at 9:30 pm for a 10:30 flight to JHB.
Deal done (at enormous expense – but missing an SA flight to JHB on Holy Thursday before Easter weekend may mean that I am stuck in Ghana for at least another 4 to 5 days. It is something I cannot even begin to contemplate. We set off. Going on back roads to avoid traffic in Kumasi; we spend 40 minutes driving and are still in Kumasi. Accra is 293 km away. And it is now 4:40pm.
We eventually get to the main highway to Accra. One badly tarred road to Accra. Sharing this one lane with buses; massive construction trucks; beaten up trucks; cars; people and dust. And SPEED BUMPS!! I am starting to realise that 300km is not a 3 hour journey.
We complete 200 km and it is only 7:00pm. I am confident that we will be fine. 100km left and 2.5 hours left before bag drop time but then the Ghanaian gentleman sitting next to me on the back seat tells me the road gets worse from here! Worse?
How could it be??? 40 – 50 km of road construction where corrugated sand roads and potholes are KING. It is dark now and there are no lights except for the car lights; 2 parallel corrugated sand roads diverge and meet at various intervals. One is the new road; one the old road. Everybody on the road chooses which one to use and we start to weave through oncoming traffic and around trucks and buses. I am terrified and stressed. Asking the guys in the car what our ETA is so I can alert Oliver who is speaking to SAA (he made it on the other flight with Starbow). The answer is “we will be there soon; we are sure we will make it”which doesn’t help me at all.
After being completely stressed for hours I am finally dropped at the airport in Accra at 9:31pm! I race in and drop my bags; go through
passport and customs and then board the flight. I am so relieved to have made it that the poor guy next to me has to listen to my excited rambling. Finally home at 6:30am the next morning I am so happy to be back in SA. A hot shower awaits.
This has been an eye opener for me. Gender issues and poverty is spoken about regularly.
The needs are great and development is a key part of the process of real change in SA.
PG Bison / DBE MOU Signing
The picture before:
3 high schools in Ugie/Maclear in May 2009. One school is functional; producing quality matric results; 2 struggling with poor pass rates (44% and 23%) as a result of infighting and apathy. The Mt Fletcher District pass rate mirrors this with a pass rate of 45%.
After a whole school assessment to determine a baseline measurement as well as identifying points of intervention we began a series of workshops at various levels; including community stakeholders and leadership in the schools from SMT (School Management Teams); SGB (School Governing Bodies); Unions; District officials (High level and on the ground staff) and Learner Representatives; in order to build a cohesive functional education system from the inside out. Mt Fletcher and its schools needed a new culture of accountability; a personal sense of responsibility and pride to effect meaningful and improved outcomes in education. The only sustainable manner in which to do this was to ensure that ownership for this change was transferred from an external party like P G Bison or any other sponsor to the community; and this was the intention from the beginning.
Against the backdrop of failing provincial structures and political unrest with teacher strikes; minimal support from an illiterate parent body we also included systemic re-alignment methodologies and team coaching. Through a concerted and consistent effort; and relationship facilitation at all levels; for the last 2.5 years we have changed the picture and culture of the schools
and the District.
After a whole school assessment to determine a baseline measurement as well as identifying points of intervention we began a series of workshops at various levels; including community stakeholders and leadership in the schools from SMT (School Management Teams); SGB (School Governing Bodies); Unions; District officials (High level and on the ground staff) and Learner Representatives; in order to build a cohesive functional education system from the inside out. Mt Fletcher and its schools needed a new culture of accountability; a personal sense of responsibility and pride to effect meaningful and improved outcomes in education. The only sustainable manner in which to do this was to ensure that ownership for this change was transferred from an external party like P G Bison or any other sponsor to the community; and this was the intention from the beginning.
Against the backdrop of failing provincial structures and political unrest with teacher strikes; minimal support from an illiterate parent body we also included systemic re-alignment methodologies and team coaching. Through a concerted and consistent effort; and relationship facilitation at all levels; for the last 2.5 years we have changed the picture and culture of the schools
and the District.
The Picture After 2.5 years:
Ugie High is currently ranked 19th in the province; top in the District. Sibabale has increased their pass rate from 23% to 69; and now stable at 68.8%. Umtha Welanga has improved year on year from 45% to 64% to 69%. The impact on the District is profound: pass rates
across the District has increased from 45 to 54 to 71% and now rank as the third best District in the Province.
On the basis of the improved results and tangible impact on the schools in which PG Bison has invested; the District insisted on signing an MOU between the Executive Director of P G Bison (Mr Themba Siyolo) and the District Director (Mr MM Maquatyana): this details the ongoing and formal agreement to share resources; co-fund initiatives; drive improvement on the ground through District manpower; employ transparency by handing over results quarterly to co-determine nodal points of change needed; and to celebrate improvements.
As momentum has increased in the District and schools other sponsors have shown their willingness to engage; because of the functionality of the schools they
feel that the area is worth investing in. Lewis invested R1.5M into building infrastructure into the schools; confident of their impact as these buildings were integrated into strategic plans and supported by the District Infrastructure Manager. Other smaller sponsors have donated books, training and clothes; shoes and expertise. All our service providers are excited to work in a successful project.
The MOU is tangible proof that the District is engaged; at our recent function for the signing the District invited amongst others Chief Mabandla (former DG of the EC provincial Education Department); leaders from Governmental organisations such as the Departments of Labour; Social Development; South African Police Service; the principals of the schools; and all the District Officials who work directly with the schools. All the community leaders attended and the speeches reiterated the commitment from the Department in the partnership.
Ownership is clearly shifting in the hands of the community; parents are starting to assist in the running of the schools; leaders in the schools are dedicated to
the improvement of the schools; and excitement is tangible when results are announced. For the first time this year the District is undertaking an analysis
of the results to determine the exact interventions needed to shift the pass rate and ensure Quality passes with increased numbers of university entrance
passes.
Our next phase is very directed teacher development for improvement in key subject areas such as Maths; Science; English First Additional Language; Life Sciences and Accounting. Due to the technical nature of these subjects; improvements in these have an exponential impact on the pass rate; not only in quantity of
passes but quality of passes for tertiary endeavour. Having established a strong platform of engagement at all levels in the community our skills
development will achieve the traction it requires and effect sustainable change for the better in this District.
across the District has increased from 45 to 54 to 71% and now rank as the third best District in the Province.
On the basis of the improved results and tangible impact on the schools in which PG Bison has invested; the District insisted on signing an MOU between the Executive Director of P G Bison (Mr Themba Siyolo) and the District Director (Mr MM Maquatyana): this details the ongoing and formal agreement to share resources; co-fund initiatives; drive improvement on the ground through District manpower; employ transparency by handing over results quarterly to co-determine nodal points of change needed; and to celebrate improvements.
As momentum has increased in the District and schools other sponsors have shown their willingness to engage; because of the functionality of the schools they
feel that the area is worth investing in. Lewis invested R1.5M into building infrastructure into the schools; confident of their impact as these buildings were integrated into strategic plans and supported by the District Infrastructure Manager. Other smaller sponsors have donated books, training and clothes; shoes and expertise. All our service providers are excited to work in a successful project.
The MOU is tangible proof that the District is engaged; at our recent function for the signing the District invited amongst others Chief Mabandla (former DG of the EC provincial Education Department); leaders from Governmental organisations such as the Departments of Labour; Social Development; South African Police Service; the principals of the schools; and all the District Officials who work directly with the schools. All the community leaders attended and the speeches reiterated the commitment from the Department in the partnership.
Ownership is clearly shifting in the hands of the community; parents are starting to assist in the running of the schools; leaders in the schools are dedicated to
the improvement of the schools; and excitement is tangible when results are announced. For the first time this year the District is undertaking an analysis
of the results to determine the exact interventions needed to shift the pass rate and ensure Quality passes with increased numbers of university entrance
passes.
Our next phase is very directed teacher development for improvement in key subject areas such as Maths; Science; English First Additional Language; Life Sciences and Accounting. Due to the technical nature of these subjects; improvements in these have an exponential impact on the pass rate; not only in quantity of
passes but quality of passes for tertiary endeavour. Having established a strong platform of engagement at all levels in the community our skills
development will achieve the traction it requires and effect sustainable change for the better in this District.
Change Management
Speech in Diepsloot
I was asked to give a speech in Diepsloot at Mother Touch Academy this weekend on their second birthday celebration. I had to reflect on how I would share my views on partnerships and the role of parents in a child’s education. I knew I had to make it a concrete understanding; thereby sharing the understanding through a metaphor.
I finally settled on using a hand as an analogy for education. We hold the future of our children in our hands. These
hands are made up of 5 fingers; working in unison. Each of these 5 fingers represents a different sector of the community which impacts on a child’s educational experience.
THUMB: the parent; they came first and gave birth to these children. Thumbs are important digits on a hand as they juxtapose each of the others and enable a fist of strength to be made. Whilst I understand that not all parents are literate and feel that they cannot add value to a child’s schooling there are tangible ways in which parents can ensure that their children value schooling and education: getting their children to school on time; making sure they are clean and fresh and ready to learn; making sure that they listen to reading, and ensure that homework is done. Parents can set times for homework and show by their actions that they value a good education; despite not having had access to such.
POINTER FINGER: the learners. These learners have to take responsibility for their lives to be “number one”. They must learn as much as they can; take every opportunity offered to them; and immerse themselves in the educational process. They will point out where they need help; as well as pointing the way to their own future.
MIDDLE FINGER: the government. This includes all the services which government should provide: housing; roads; educational process; policy; policing etc we have a responsibility as citizens who want our children to have a good future to vote people into power who will deliver services to effect better futures for our children. And hold them accountable to delivering according to their mandate.
RING FINGER: the school. Consider this to be a marriage partner in education. Much as we have to choose carefully when we consider marriage we also have to
look at the school we send our children to. The key people in a school are the Principal; here at Mother Touch Petros is an mazing man; a lifelong learner who
models learning behavior and commitment to education in the way he soaks up any opportunity to learn and grow. He is also a dedicated servant; humble and
focused on what is best for the school. Petros is willing to make the necessary sacrifices to put his school first. He is a real inspirational leader. His staff are phenomenal people; totally focused on what is best for the learners. They always keep their classrooms clean; tidy and stimulating with pictures and posters. They love their learners and love learning and teaching. Mother Touch is a good marriage partner in education.
LITTLE FINGER: the community. This provides balance to the educational process and is a key partner in the process. This includes shebeen owners in the
area; executive committees who assist with expertise; donors and funders (you will see that this is not the key area for funding and resource management);
other partners in the community such as other NGO’s etc The little finger allows for a firm grasp of education for the future.
If all 5 fingers work in unison then the hand is strong and has a firm handle on the future. Partnerships are a key part of making education work; with each
partner doing their part in the whole. This is the only way we are going to be able to make education work for our children.
I finally settled on using a hand as an analogy for education. We hold the future of our children in our hands. These
hands are made up of 5 fingers; working in unison. Each of these 5 fingers represents a different sector of the community which impacts on a child’s educational experience.
THUMB: the parent; they came first and gave birth to these children. Thumbs are important digits on a hand as they juxtapose each of the others and enable a fist of strength to be made. Whilst I understand that not all parents are literate and feel that they cannot add value to a child’s schooling there are tangible ways in which parents can ensure that their children value schooling and education: getting their children to school on time; making sure they are clean and fresh and ready to learn; making sure that they listen to reading, and ensure that homework is done. Parents can set times for homework and show by their actions that they value a good education; despite not having had access to such.
POINTER FINGER: the learners. These learners have to take responsibility for their lives to be “number one”. They must learn as much as they can; take every opportunity offered to them; and immerse themselves in the educational process. They will point out where they need help; as well as pointing the way to their own future.
MIDDLE FINGER: the government. This includes all the services which government should provide: housing; roads; educational process; policy; policing etc we have a responsibility as citizens who want our children to have a good future to vote people into power who will deliver services to effect better futures for our children. And hold them accountable to delivering according to their mandate.
RING FINGER: the school. Consider this to be a marriage partner in education. Much as we have to choose carefully when we consider marriage we also have to
look at the school we send our children to. The key people in a school are the Principal; here at Mother Touch Petros is an mazing man; a lifelong learner who
models learning behavior and commitment to education in the way he soaks up any opportunity to learn and grow. He is also a dedicated servant; humble and
focused on what is best for the school. Petros is willing to make the necessary sacrifices to put his school first. He is a real inspirational leader. His staff are phenomenal people; totally focused on what is best for the learners. They always keep their classrooms clean; tidy and stimulating with pictures and posters. They love their learners and love learning and teaching. Mother Touch is a good marriage partner in education.
LITTLE FINGER: the community. This provides balance to the educational process and is a key partner in the process. This includes shebeen owners in the
area; executive committees who assist with expertise; donors and funders (you will see that this is not the key area for funding and resource management);
other partners in the community such as other NGO’s etc The little finger allows for a firm grasp of education for the future.
If all 5 fingers work in unison then the hand is strong and has a firm handle on the future. Partnerships are a key part of making education work; with each
partner doing their part in the whole. This is the only way we are going to be able to make education work for our children.
Soccer Day at UJ 2011
We played soccer today at Career Build’s soccer festival. The team was made up of family: my kids; good friends and my partner and his family. Career Build is a Christian programme which assists kids in disadvantaged communities the values and processes and networks to choose the right career and then to pursue it. We went to UJ where African time was at play. It was chilly but the atmosphere was warm and welcoming. Our team eyed out the opposition; we postured and strutted to show them that we weren’t scared of them. We waited anxiously to see which teams were placed in our group and were very relieved to play against a young team; small and slight in build. No soccer boots; and given the fact that we were a strong physical team with skills and good boots we thought we were destined to win the first game.
Boy we were surprised. These little kids were tenacious; committed and skilled. Before long we were 1-0 down in the game. And in danger of losing.
We played some really competitive games. We had a lot of fun. I was impressed with the manner in which the kids played; and that none of them gave up. The
lack of equipment and the “right” shoes wasn’t the most important thing; they just wanted to play and win. They do need better shoes though as many of them slid and couldn’t get any traction on the grass. I have asked my own kids and their friends to donate their old shoes. Our kids outgrow their shoes long before they need to be
replaced and these would make some kids really happy.
We left early as most of our group had to get to other commitments. We came back tired and happy. I hope that my children saw something of the reality of
SA. Whilst they are exposed in some ways to my work they hold stereotypical notions about communities. They were humbled by kids in the later games which
showed them that the gear and the superficial stuff isn’t really real.
Our kids have a lot to learn. I hope that today’s experience has shown them another world.
Boy we were surprised. These little kids were tenacious; committed and skilled. Before long we were 1-0 down in the game. And in danger of losing.
We played some really competitive games. We had a lot of fun. I was impressed with the manner in which the kids played; and that none of them gave up. The
lack of equipment and the “right” shoes wasn’t the most important thing; they just wanted to play and win. They do need better shoes though as many of them slid and couldn’t get any traction on the grass. I have asked my own kids and their friends to donate their old shoes. Our kids outgrow their shoes long before they need to be
replaced and these would make some kids really happy.
We left early as most of our group had to get to other commitments. We came back tired and happy. I hope that my children saw something of the reality of
SA. Whilst they are exposed in some ways to my work they hold stereotypical notions about communities. They were humbled by kids in the later games which
showed them that the gear and the superficial stuff isn’t really real.
Our kids have a lot to learn. I hope that today’s experience has shown them another world.
Ugie Leadership Training 2011
We arrived in Ugie on Monday 10th January 2011 to start a leadership course for 15 people from the 11th to the 13th January 2011.
The course was held at E T Thabane in a classroom. Thanks to Mr Tshaka and Mr
Tamako for organizing the venue and the room. Caroline Phama was responsible for
the catering (through community channels) and organized it all very well [independently] this time around.
The commitment to the leadership training was incredibly positive.
1. E T Thabane’s classrooms are coming on well. The Foundations are in place and the walls are being built. Due to the persistent rain and bad weather conditions the building is behind schedule so hopefully the Grade R block will be completed by the deadline of 20 February 2011.
2. Sibabale’s pass rate has improved from 23% in 2009 to 69% in 20010. One of their learners earned top spot in the District with 3 distinctions (maths; science and life sciences) and many B symbols for the remaining subjects.
3. Umtha Welanga’s pass rate has improved from 46% to 66%. And won R15 000 by coming second in an environmental competition in Ukahlamba District.
4. Mr Tamako has stated that the extra lesson programmes learners did by far the best in the region. The impact has been very positive. And they are all deeply thankful to PG Bison for the assistance. Other schools in the District have asked to be included in the project with P G Bison as they see PG Bison making a difference in the community.
5. Ugie High’s buildings are coming along better then E T Thabane because much of their work is indoors and can be done despite the rain. The container has been upgraded and now needs painting; the hostel has been painted and the science block is being revamped.
The way forward:
It was patently clear that the changes that have been seen are as a result of the training; but more importantly that the training has brought about sustainable change. The schools were very confident that their new strategies had made the changes possible. The mindsets are very different and they are looking for solutions for their
schools. They are willing to risk; change and improve.
I have asked them to direct many of their new directives; as opposed to us telling them what they need. I have been clear that they should come up with group strategies to drive the changes as this allows for efficient use of funds. They will direct their strategies through Mr Tamako who is the District official and who would be able to communicate them to us.
Mr Tamako attended the leadership course with us and assisted in organising this late last year. He is committed to seeing delivery at all levels and is proving to be a leader in the community. He will work at District level to make the necessary changes.
They have reiterated the need for teacher development in English; maths; science and life sciences; as well as accounting. I have begun the
process of sourcing retired teachers who would be able to mentor on a daily
basis for some months in Ugie for meaningful change.
The course was held at E T Thabane in a classroom. Thanks to Mr Tshaka and Mr
Tamako for organizing the venue and the room. Caroline Phama was responsible for
the catering (through community channels) and organized it all very well [independently] this time around.
The commitment to the leadership training was incredibly positive.
1. E T Thabane’s classrooms are coming on well. The Foundations are in place and the walls are being built. Due to the persistent rain and bad weather conditions the building is behind schedule so hopefully the Grade R block will be completed by the deadline of 20 February 2011.
2. Sibabale’s pass rate has improved from 23% in 2009 to 69% in 20010. One of their learners earned top spot in the District with 3 distinctions (maths; science and life sciences) and many B symbols for the remaining subjects.
3. Umtha Welanga’s pass rate has improved from 46% to 66%. And won R15 000 by coming second in an environmental competition in Ukahlamba District.
4. Mr Tamako has stated that the extra lesson programmes learners did by far the best in the region. The impact has been very positive. And they are all deeply thankful to PG Bison for the assistance. Other schools in the District have asked to be included in the project with P G Bison as they see PG Bison making a difference in the community.
5. Ugie High’s buildings are coming along better then E T Thabane because much of their work is indoors and can be done despite the rain. The container has been upgraded and now needs painting; the hostel has been painted and the science block is being revamped.
The way forward:
It was patently clear that the changes that have been seen are as a result of the training; but more importantly that the training has brought about sustainable change. The schools were very confident that their new strategies had made the changes possible. The mindsets are very different and they are looking for solutions for their
schools. They are willing to risk; change and improve.
I have asked them to direct many of their new directives; as opposed to us telling them what they need. I have been clear that they should come up with group strategies to drive the changes as this allows for efficient use of funds. They will direct their strategies through Mr Tamako who is the District official and who would be able to communicate them to us.
Mr Tamako attended the leadership course with us and assisted in organising this late last year. He is committed to seeing delivery at all levels and is proving to be a leader in the community. He will work at District level to make the necessary changes.
They have reiterated the need for teacher development in English; maths; science and life sciences; as well as accounting. I have begun the
process of sourcing retired teachers who would be able to mentor on a daily
basis for some months in Ugie for meaningful change.
School Improvement Workshop
The School Improvement Workshop was held in Ugie from the 6th to the 9th April; with delegates invited from 3 schools: Sibabale; Umtha Welanga and E T Thabane. The School Management Teams and a member of their School Governing Bodies were asked to attend. The
particular reference was that the person in charge of budgetary requirements was to be present for the Public Finance Management Act part of the course which would assist in the budgeting for the school.
The intention was to take them through a process of learning on many levels:
· Team work as an SMT
· Emotional Intelligence and Self Awareness
· Strategic planning
· Budgeting
· To compile and complete a School Improvement Plan which they can implement and to assist them to attain better results in the future; a natural process once they are a better governed school with strong leadership
The workshop was held during the school holidays to enable the SMT to attend. This was problematic in itself as the schools held holiday programmes in order to assist their learners to catch up; hence some of the SMT’s could not attend the entire workshop.
Having said that; it is important to recognise the following constraints:
· taking the entire SMT out of the school during the term would set a precedent that teaching is not an integral part of the school and impact on an already limited number of staff covering for many; which is an untenable situation
· many of the schools have submitted SIP’s in the past which are “complete” but not thought through or which doesn’t involve all stakeholders in the school and has often been a document which is completed for administrative purposes but not much else: the strategy of the SIP is vitally important as a tool which will take the school to fulfillment of it’s vision and the lack of a comprehensive and aligned strategy leaves schools visionless; directionless and in crisis mode
· the Department of Education requires each school to complete an SIP but does not have the capacity to enable schools/train SMT’s with skills to complete the process comprehensively
· the many diverse skills are / were needed are many and diverse and 4 days was a minimum time needed to complete the tasks set
· training the SMT during the holidays was the only real solution
The positive response and attendance during school holidays are testimony to the following:
· the SIP workshop was urgently needed
· the commitment of the schools is unquestioned
· the openness of the DoE to the interventions is welcomed
· the partnership between PG Bison and the schools is bearing fruit in terms of trust and a willingness to engage and grow together
· many other schools were approached to take up places which were not filled by SMT’s who had to teach; and the willingness of these to take up the responsibility with very little notice is noteworthy and indicative of the broader need
particular reference was that the person in charge of budgetary requirements was to be present for the Public Finance Management Act part of the course which would assist in the budgeting for the school.
The intention was to take them through a process of learning on many levels:
· Team work as an SMT
· Emotional Intelligence and Self Awareness
· Strategic planning
· Budgeting
· To compile and complete a School Improvement Plan which they can implement and to assist them to attain better results in the future; a natural process once they are a better governed school with strong leadership
The workshop was held during the school holidays to enable the SMT to attend. This was problematic in itself as the schools held holiday programmes in order to assist their learners to catch up; hence some of the SMT’s could not attend the entire workshop.
Having said that; it is important to recognise the following constraints:
· taking the entire SMT out of the school during the term would set a precedent that teaching is not an integral part of the school and impact on an already limited number of staff covering for many; which is an untenable situation
· many of the schools have submitted SIP’s in the past which are “complete” but not thought through or which doesn’t involve all stakeholders in the school and has often been a document which is completed for administrative purposes but not much else: the strategy of the SIP is vitally important as a tool which will take the school to fulfillment of it’s vision and the lack of a comprehensive and aligned strategy leaves schools visionless; directionless and in crisis mode
· the Department of Education requires each school to complete an SIP but does not have the capacity to enable schools/train SMT’s with skills to complete the process comprehensively
· the many diverse skills are / were needed are many and diverse and 4 days was a minimum time needed to complete the tasks set
· training the SMT during the holidays was the only real solution
The positive response and attendance during school holidays are testimony to the following:
· the SIP workshop was urgently needed
· the commitment of the schools is unquestioned
· the openness of the DoE to the interventions is welcomed
· the partnership between PG Bison and the schools is bearing fruit in terms of trust and a willingness to engage and grow together
· many other schools were approached to take up places which were not filled by SMT’s who had to teach; and the willingness of these to take up the responsibility with very little notice is noteworthy and indicative of the broader need
Leadership Camp
Peter Sadie (Leadership Camp facilitator from Imsimbi www.imsimbi.co.za) and members of the community forum spent time with 30 leaders from Ugie High, Umtha Welanga and Sibabale (10 per school). The camp was held over three days at the Khulanathi Education center.
Over the three days learners focused on the actual issues which schools face, finding solutions to the identified problems and how they can deal with them; Learners worked out a time line to move forward within their schools. The
activities helped learners cope with change, test their skills and find out how they can work together within their community; learner’s self-awareness was challenged and they were encouraged to move out of their comfort zone.
Learners realized that they themselves have the solution to most of their problems; the course was intentionally aimed at making them realise you don’t have to wait for anyone else but rather to looking at strengths you have to move
forward. The camp has emphasized how much potential lies in these groups of learners and how, together, they can make a difference in their community. Learners are already looking for ways to change their schools and have planned
steps to moving forward.
Over the three days learners focused on the actual issues which schools face, finding solutions to the identified problems and how they can deal with them; Learners worked out a time line to move forward within their schools. The
activities helped learners cope with change, test their skills and find out how they can work together within their community; learner’s self-awareness was challenged and they were encouraged to move out of their comfort zone.
Learners realized that they themselves have the solution to most of their problems; the course was intentionally aimed at making them realise you don’t have to wait for anyone else but rather to looking at strengths you have to move
forward. The camp has emphasized how much potential lies in these groups of learners and how, together, they can make a difference in their community. Learners are already looking for ways to change their schools and have planned
steps to moving forward.