Akhumzi Masoka (17), from Humansdorp, has been selected to participate in the prestigious rugby exchange programme with Hurstpierpoint College in the United Kingdom.
Masoka, who is a learner at Grey High School in Gqeberha, will spend over three months at the renowned UK institution as part of an initiative aimed at fostering international sporting and academic connections.
Two other Grey High School learners selected for the exchange are Joandre van Jaarsveld (17) and Silindezihle Ntshokoma (17), both from Gqeberha.
Robbi Kempson, Head of Rugby at Grey High, expressed his pride in the selection.
“We would like to congratulate Akhumzi on his selection by Grey High School Rugby Club to go on a student exchange to Hurstpierpoint College in the United Kingdom,” said Kempson.
He said that the reciprocity has been afforded between the two schools for young learners to engage in each other’s programmes, both scholastic and on the sporting front.
The exchange programme, now in its second year, will see Masoka staying at the school’s boarding house from August 24 to December 7, under the pastoral care of Fred Pierrepont, Hurstpierpoint’s Head of Rugby.
Kempson highlighted the developmental benefits of the programme beyond just rugby skills.
“The impact that this experience can have on his maturity, independence, social skills and cultural awareness is invaluable,” said Kempson.
“The opportunity to experience life overseas as a local, rather than a tourist, will give him a more global perspective.”
For Masoka, who hails from Humansdorp and is currently based at Grey High’s hostel, the selection represents a dream come true.
“I am excited about this new experience,” said Masoka.
“I have always dreamt about visiting a different country. This is going to be a totally new experience for me.”
The young rugby player is particularly looking forward to the social aspects of the exchange.
“I am looking forward to making new friends and meeting new people,” said Masoka.
The exchange is part of a growing relationship between the two prestigious schools, with three students from Hurstpierpoint College expected to arrive at Grey High School later this month.
Kempson said that tests and exams for the third and fourth terms will be written under supervision at Hurstpierpoint, ensuring that academic progress isn’t neglected during the exchange.
“We look forward to building the relationship between the two schools and affording these young men the best possible opportunities to flourish through the exchange programme,” said Kempson.
The exchange programme, despite being in its infancy, has already established a firm bond between the schools and players.
The once-in-a-lifetime opportunity, however, comes with significant costs that Masoka needs assistance to cover.
Kempson said that the expenses include international flights ranging from R15 000 to R23 000, a short-term visitor visa costing about R3 000, and passport application fees.
While the parents of the learners from Hurstpierpoint who previously visited South Africa have offered to assist with some costs during their UK stay, Masoka still requires financial support to make this dream a reality.
For more information or to offer financial assistance, visit Masoka’s BackaBuddy page by using the keywords “Help Akhumzi get to the United Kingdom” on the website.
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