Primary school pupils learnt about the importance of reading and other life lessons, at Hanover Park library, last week.
The Grade 7 Belmor Primary School pupils visited the library over three days. They wore takkies on the first day when the theme was “it is not your shoes, but the direction you are walking that determines your destination”. The theme on day two was “working hard vs working smart”, and, on the third day, they wore takkies, hats and scarves for “do not judge a book by its cover”.
Mentors from Youth Impact South Africa, a Ward 47 programme, spoke to the pupils about the importance of learning and how hard it is to get a job without a matric certificate, according to programme facilitator Jody Less.
“The unemployment rate is extremely high, and it is very difficult to get a job and that is why it is important for youth to finish school and get good grades,” he said, adding that the children had been advised to stay away from gangsterism and drugs and rather join after-school programmes.
Belmor Primary School Grade 7 teacher Charnelle Arendse, said: “It is of paramount importance that our children develop a love of reading and also to have the knowledge of how to do research. I love the innovative and pioneering programmes that the Hanover Park library team, in conjunction with Youth Impact SA, presents to the youth of Hanover Park. Their energy and excitement is so contagious, and our learners are keen to participate in all activities presented to them.”
Belmor Primary School principal Carol Poole said that being a library member enhanced pupils’ knowledge and skills.
“We all grew up in the library, and I wish the same for our children. I am very impressed with the programme, and I salute them for what they are doing four our pupils and for always allowing our schools to participate in their programmes. The children really enjoy it and most of our Grade 7s are now library members,” she said.
On Friday May 20, from 2pm to 4pm, the Belmor Primary School Grade 7 pupils have been invited to the Hanover Park civic centre to launch Ward 47’s junior leadership programme.
