The fifth annual Provincial Schools March and Drill Competition, in support of the safer schools initiative, was hosted by Go Big Community Development NPC, in partnership with the Provincial Department of Education, the Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality, the South African National Defence Force, and the South African Police Services.

Thirty-three schools were in competition, where Nelson Mandela Bay was well-represented by 27 schools, including Ndzondelelo High School which amassed most of the prizes, including first place for Best Overall, first place for Best Drum Line, second place for Best Exhibition, third place for Best Drum Major, and third place for Best Grand March Pass – qualifying them for the National March and Drill Competition in Cape Town later this year.

When March and Drill co-ordinator, Zuziwe Nkosana, started the squad in 2017, she never thought it would reach these heights.

“The army had invited the school to a career expo, and introduced us to marching and drilling. They told us about how it can be used to instil discipline in children, and can even be taken as a career option,” said Nkosana.

A former learner of the school, Luxolo Luzipho, volunteered to coach the squad and has since seen a handful of victories in the past seven years.

One of the squad’s drum liners, Imile Gaca, said that he would not trade this for anything.

Former learner, Luxolo Luzipho has been leading the Ndzondelelo High School March and Drill squad as their coach for seven years.

Photo: Supplied

“I’ve learned so much discipline, good morals and to just conduct myself in a proper manner. I’m even neater now,” the learner laughed.

One parent encouraged others to let their children join the squad.

“It’s so important for us as parents to support our children; sometimes they even practise on Sundays and after school, but I am comforted by knowing my child is doing something that is developing him for the future. These activities keep them away from the streets, doing drugs and crime; they end up even being more focused in school as a result,” said the parent.

The March and Drill squad of Ndzondelelo High School is gearing up for a more intense competition in Cape Town, but these preparations are not without challenges.

“As with most things, we need funds to transport the squad to Cape Town, and other things they will need. We are trying to do a few fund-raising projects, and ask anyone who is willing to donate, to please contact the school. No amount is too little,” concluded Nkosana.

For more information about the fund-raising efforts, contact the school on 083 315 3843.