Established in 2016, this SWF initiative aims to address major global challenges, including the income gap and climate change, which have the potential to profoundly impact future generations. The idea is to bring together scholars from Zivuko, a school struggling to provide education in a rural community, and Penryn College, a well-resourced school catering to the middle and upper classes. By leveraging the support of the Selati Wilderness Foundation (SWF) and its association with the Selati Game Reserve, this programme seeks to empower these scholars in navigating their uncertain futures.
The programme involves small groups of scholars from both schools coming together at the Selati Game Reserve multiple times a year. The structured activities will serve two purposes. Firstly, the scholars will gain a deeper understanding of the natural world and sustainability. Secondly, the programme will facilitate cross-cultural exchange, enabling scholars from different backgrounds to learn about each other’s worlds, fostering relationships and bonds. The enchanting environment of the bush and the common theme of environmental awareness are expected to contribute to this process.
The time spent together will be complemented by exchange visits, with Zivuko scholars visiting Penryn College and Penryn scholars staying overnight in Nkowankowa. Efforts will be made to ensure that the experiences and learnings from this programme are shared and amplified within their respective institutions.
The purpose of this initiative is twofold. For Zivuko and Penryn College, it aims to bring about meaningful change in the lives of young scholars by utilising the Selati Game Reserve as a platform for personal growth, self-discovery, and environmental education. For the Selati Wilderness Foundation, it fulfils their corporate social investment mandate by engaging with the community through conservation-based social upliftment programmes.
The vision for this ongoing programme is optimistic. The hope is that through well-designed and structured engagements, the programme will make a difference. For Penryn scholars, it is expected that they will gain a deeper appreciation for their privileges and develop empathy towards those less fortunate. For Zivuko scholars, it is hoped that they will gain a better sense of what is possible, empowering them to pursue their dreams with confidence. Additionally, the programme aims to instil a love and passion for the natural world, possibly sparking an interest in conservation careers. Long-lasting friendships between scholars from different schools are anticipated, and the hope is that the experiences and learnings will be carried back to their institutions, enhancing and expanding the programme’s impact. Ultimately, all participants should come away feeling that the experience was valuable, equipping them for the challenges of the future.
‘We are so blessed’ | 26 February 2020
When Jaytee Makhubele (15) walks onto the stage at Zivuko Secondary School, she can’t hide her joy. A conscientious student, she’s used to doing well, but this Friday morning’s assembly is special. It’s not her academic talents that are being recognised,but rather, her skill as a photographer.
