Volunteers needed to support Masiphumelele pupils

An after-school programme in Masiphumelele is appealing for volunteers to help support children from vulnerable households who are struggling to keep up at school.

Projekt Ubuntu Connekt, a registered community-based organisation, runs an after-school programme offering academic support, reading development and structured enrichment activities for children aged seven to 18.

“Many of the children we serve face learning backlogs and require additional support with literacy, numeracy, homework assistance, specific subjects like Afrikaans, English and Mathematics, and study skills,” said co-founder Busisiwe Banda.

She said the programme is looking for caring adults who can give a few hours of their time each week to help learners build confidence and improve their school performance.

“Having experienced and compassionate volunteers would greatly strengthen the impact of our programme and contribute to improved educational outcomes,” she said.

The organisation is calling on retired teachers, registered teachers, student teachers, education interns and community members with tutoring experience - or a strong interest in helping children learn - to get involved.

“While formal teaching qualifications are advantageous, they are not compulsory for community volunteers, provided they are committed, patient, and reliable,” Ms Banda said.

Volunteers will work with learners across all phases of schooling, from Foundation Phase (Grades R to 3), to Intermediate Phase (Grades 4 to 6), and Senior Phase pupils up to Grade 11.

The greatest need is for support in reading, writing, and comprehension, as well as numeracy and Mathematics. Help with English and Afrikaans, as well as homework and study skills, is also needed.

The after-school programme runs from Monday to Friday between about 2.30pm and 5pm. Volunteers can commit according to their availability, whether that is one afternoon a week or more.

“Volunteers will be oriented to our programme and supported by our coordinators. We have basic learning materials that we can provide, and volunteers are welcome to contribute additional resources where possible,” Ms Banda said.

All tutoring and support take place at the after-school programme site in Masiphumelele.

For many of the children in the programme, a little extra academic support can make a big difference - and the organisation hopes the community will step in to help.

To volunteer, contact Projekt Ubuntu Connekt via email at ubuntucommunitymedia@gmail.com or by phone on 081 549 6284.

Prospective volunteers will need to complete a simple application form and provide a copy of their ID as part of the screening process.

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