Members of the Mpunzana Development Association (MDA) in Mthatha are on a mission to promote and emphasise the importance of education by supporting the schools that helped shape them into who they are today. This association comprises professors, doctors, and other dignitaries.
These members donated school shoes and socks to learners from Cezu Primary School in Mthatha, amounting to R68 000. Prominent doctor, Mthembeni Tebelele, known for his sexual and reproductive health advice on SABC’s Umhlobo Wenene FM and a member of the MDA, said that Mpunzana consists of different local communities.
He mentioned that many people from this area are uneducated and never had the opportunity to attend school. Tebelele used his own parents as an example, stating that they never went to school. “We were supported by parents who knew nothing about education because they never had access to it. But what is interesting is that they were still willing to invest in us through education. That is why we are educated today. We studied and managed to change the circumstances of our homes. We did the opposite of what our parents experienced because they made sure to send us to school. We are now educated. We are living proof that education can set you free,” said Tebelele.
He added that it is difficult for an educated person to be involved in crime. He pointed out that there are many social issues in local communities, but through education, they have managed to change many things because they can see the world from a different perspective.
“We can also identify the reasons why some learners drop out of school. Some drop out due to obstacles in their way. We work to remove those obstacles so that these children can continue their education. The struggles of our parents helped us reach places they never could.” He emphasised that they want to inspire learners in the area to understand that education is crucial.
Tebelele added that these children must believe that anything is possible in life. “That’s why we invited people from all provinces — former students of these schools to show them that success is achievable. We want them to know that even if they come from a remote village, they can achieve great things if they push themselves. We are here to plant those seeds, which is why we are interacting with these children. We are replacing their worn-out and torn shoes to help build their confidence. Some are wearing tattered uniforms, which lowers their self-esteem. We understand their situation, and we are proud to be where we are today because of the support from this community. That is why we are here to tell them that it is possible. Even if you come from a village with no resources, you can still become anything you aspire to be.”
Tebelele also addressed the issue of school dropouts, stating that they need to investigate the reasons behind it. “For instance, if we compare the number of students who start Grade 1 to those who reach matric, many are lost along the way. We encourage them by sharing our own experiences. We used to take cattle to the dipping tanks before going to school, yet today, we are here. You can still succeed. One of the reasons learners drop out is the lack of parental support for their education. Another issue is the absence of discipline in schools, which allows students to behave however they want.”
Tebelele highlighted that since MDA was founded in 2006, they have contributed significantly to the community. Their efforts include donating blankets to the elderly and constructing four classrooms and a computer hall at Dumalisile Primary School in Mthatha. He confirmed that the government assisted them by providing computers.
“Every year, we conduct a health programme where we invite our professional friends from various fields. We collaborate with the Eastern Cape Department of Health to offer free health services, including screenings for cervical and prostate cancer. We provide medication for primary healthcare needs and refer patients to hospitals when necessary.”
Chairperson of the Mpunzana Development Association, Professor Sithandiwe Velaphi, emphasised that education is essential for the country’s development and economic growth, as well as for advancements in areas such as manufacturing and infrastructure. “We need skilled individuals to apply their expertise where it is most needed. These skills are essential for the development of different sectors in our country. Right now, we are in a village where it is raining heavily. How do we harvest this rainwater? How do we use this natural resource to ensure we have water for the future? We need individuals with the skills to think about rainwater harvesting and irrigation systems for agricultural development,” said Velaphi.
He stressed the importance of having skilled professionals to contribute to infrastructure development, such as building roads. Velaphi pointed out that these engineers do not necessarily need university degrees; they can acquire the necessary skills from TVET colleges.
“We need these skills for our country’s growth and development in various fields. We also require expertise in science and research — whether in health, education, science, or the arts. Research is crucial for progress in these areas. For example, when addressing drug-related issues, we need skilled researchers to test and verify the effectiveness of traditional medicines from our villages to ensure they are safe and beneficial for our people. That is why education is very important.”
The principal of Cezu Primary School, Mziwabantu Wecu, expressed his gratitude for MDA’s contribution, especially given the school’s classification. “We are categorised as a Quintile 3 school when, in reality, we should be under Quintile 1. Some of our children wear takkies or gumboots to school due to their financial situation. This initiative is incredibly important because it will boost our learners’ confidence. Most of the parents in this community are unemployed and rely on social grants. I am proud of what this association has done for our school. They must continue their efforts because we truly need this support,” said Wecu.
