In a first for Kariega and the Eastern Cape, a book that consists of stories, poems and illustrations by learners from the five schools in KwaNobuhle which form part of the literacy project of Volkswagen Community Trust in collaboration with Nal’ibali, was launched last Friday at the VWSA PeoplePavilion.
The learner contributions for the book Nganeno komlambo iQhagqiwa, are from primary schools Ntlemeza, Mngcunube, Vuba, James Ntungwana and Noninzi Luzipho. The book is the brainchild and concept of Madoda Ndlakuse, Nal’ibali and VWSA literacy project coordinator who also was the co-editor of the book together with Mzoli Mavimbela.
“The title of the book is named after the river that people know as the Swartkops River, but the indigenous people who lived here ages ago called the river iQhagqiwa. I do not know the meaning as it is not isi-Xhosa, but the title says, ‘Before you reach the river this is what is happening’ and then you read stories as told by the children,” said Madoda.
“Not all schools have social workers and not all children have the means to pay psychologists for counselling. I believe that this Nal’ibali and VWSA literacy project acts as a healing process in its purest form as children are offered the opportunity to say or write what is eating them inside, exactly as it is. As editors of the book, we made sure that we did not kill the language of children. Their messages are unedited, and they are beautiful,” said Madoda.
According to him there are two stories that he will never forget. One being a heart touching letter written by Ntombebhongo Sinjica acknowledging a person who made a huge difference in her life. The other is a story with the title Iintyatyambo Ezintle (Beautiful Flowers) by Linothando Olwengu, which consists of a single sentence which contains more than a hundred words.
“The publisher, Frank Nunan, was questioning Linothando’s story, saying the story was not finished. And I said, let us break rules for a good reason. This is her story. Although only one line, it is a beautiful story, saying we love beautiful flowers.”
Nandipha Kolisile known as a “Story Sparker” and a Nal’ibali facilitator collected the learners’ stories from the five schools where VW Community Trust is operating its literacy project.
“The young writers are role models and this book will be an inspiration to other children. Now when I go to those schools, I can say hey guys, today I will read you a story written by one of the learners from your school. Can you imagine what that will mean to the learners?” said Nandipha.
The illustrations in the book are from learners from the school as well as from Paul Mxolisi Madela who also did the cover illustration. The book was published by Write-On Publishing from Port Alfred. The books will be donated to the five schools.
