IkamvaYouth empowers pupils with exam preparation workshop

The 6th annual Lights On After School (LOAS) campaign will highlight the role of after-school programmes in supporting South Africa’s youth, at IkamvaYouth, in Masiphumelele, on Thursday, October 23.

Earlier this month, on Tuesday, October 7, IkamvaYouth held an exam preparation and stress management workshop for Grade 11 and 12 pupils, focusing on study skills, time management, and coping with exam anxiety.

Led by YearBeyond in the Western Cape, in partnership with The Learning Trust, LOAS forms part of a global movement celebrating organisations that improve educational outcomes and expand employment opportunities for young people.

Run mainly by community-based organisations and NGOs serving quintile one to three schools, these programmes offer tutoring, psychosocial support, and humanitarian relief to help bridge educational inequalities.

Western Cape Premier Alan Winde launched the digital LOAS campaign under the theme “Investing in Brighter Futures,” and said the after-school programmes build safer communities and create opportunities.

“From the time a child enters the education system and eventually joins the job market, it is our job to give them the best possible chance in life,” said Mr Winde.

Sports coaches, arts facilitators, literacy tutors, and coding instructors act as the “hidden educators,” mentoring children. 

“Mentors are often the missing link between what is taught in school and what’s needed in the real world,” said Charlene Petersen Voss, executive director of The Learning Trust.

Ms Petersen Voss said LOAS highlights the need to expand access to after-school programmes in rural and marginalised areas, offering mentorship, career guidance, and job-shadowing opportunities.

“These programmes help level the playing field for learners who would otherwise lack access to education and professional networks,” she said.

The spokesperson from Ikamva Youth is Nicole Joubert, branch manager for the Masiphumelele branch. “At our Masi branch, we focus on supporting learners both academically and personally,” says Ms Joubert. “We run tutoring sessions from Monday to Thursday in the afternoons and on Saturdays for all learners from Grade 8 to 12. These sessions cover key academic subjects, and we also encourage peer-to-peer learning to help learners build confidence.”

She said that through a partnership with MasiCorp, pupils can complete computer literacy training through the ICL and ICDL courses. The team also runs personal development workshops and provides one-on-one support for Grade 12s as they prepare university and bursary applications. 

Ms Joubert said that the branch has become more than just a tutoring space. “It’s a safe and welcoming environment where learners can come to study, focus, and connect. Many of them come in even on days they’re not scheduled because they value the quiet and supportive atmosphere.”

Recently, the team hosted a university open day at the school to assist Grade 12 learners in completing tertiary applications. “It is part of how we try to stand in the gap for learners who may not have that guidance at home,” she said.

Ms Joubert also spoke about the importance of community involvement. “We are always looking for volunteers and mentors,” she said. “Most of our tutors are university students who give their time generously, but we need more people to get involved. Whether it’s tutoring, mentoring, or simply showing up, every bit of support helps these young people grow and believe in themselves.”

If you would like to volunteer or for more information, contact Ms Joubert at 079 885 4314.