Mononong Primary School had not been repainted even once in its 34 years of existence, but this changed when a team of enthusiastic University of Pretoria staff members and students recently converged on the neglected building. The students who took part in the refurbishment of the school included two former learners, Charity Somo and Violet Mojapelo.

Charity, a University of Pretoria graduate, started her school career at Mononong Primary School in 1990 and remained there until 1993. She is now studying for a master’s degree in educational psychology at the University. She feels that the time spent at this School has contributed immensely to her academic achievement as it instilled a culture of learning in learners from an early age.

Violet Mojapelo, an IT specialist, also attended this School from her Grade 1 year in 1994 until 2000. She was pleased to be part of this worthy effort to assist her old School and make a difference. She also attributed her academic success to the dedication and commitment of her teachers, who ensured that their learners developed a desire to learn and an awareness of the value of a good education.

The Acting Principal of the School, Mrs Shirley Nkoana, welcomed the initiative and expressed her appreciation to the University of Pretoria.
 

Prof WJ Schoeman from Department of Chemistry and Salisu Garba from Department of Mathematics at the University of Pretoria, ensured that the class is revitalised


Prof Cheryl de la Rey interacting with the pupils at Mononong Primary School


Students from University of Pretoria (from left to right) Joy Sitole, Refilwe Maribe, Sinethemba Sokhela and Roseline Sekhaolelo (squatting) 


From left to right  - Mr Lawrence Makondo: Institutional Development and Support Officer from Gauteng Department of Education, Prof W.J Schoeman from Department of Chemistry at the University of Pretoria, Mrs Shirley Nkoana - The Acting Principal of Mononong Primary School, and Mrs Mokoena - an educator at the school.