Inclusive and reciprocal engagement results in mutual benefit
Funda Fundisa is a structured volunteer programme that tutors matric learners at Kayamandi High School in Stellenbosch. Learners are tutored in English, Life Sciences and Mathematics by SU students who serve as role models for the learners, many of whom have little exposure to life outside of Kayamandi. As a result of the tutoring, many learners are performing much better. Their teachers were also very grateful for the assistance of the student tutors and the improvement they observed in the learners.
According to Mrs Matiwane, a teacher at the school, "the school is happy that Funda Fundisa always has volunteers who understand diversity. Commitment, tolerance and hard work displayed by volunteers are appreciated. Irrespective of ups and downs at Kayamandi High School volunteers are always there for our learners."
The Funda Fundisa project ethos is one of inclusivity and reciprocity, and the partnership principle is evident through inclusivity at all levels, including planning and implementation. The community members are seen as being the experts about themselves, and the teachers and Funda Fundisa subject heads work together with input from the volunteers and the learners.
As a result of the project, two formers learners from Kayamandi High went on to study at SU. Two learners were invited to Beijing for an international science competition. The learners are often not exposed to life beyond Kayamandi, so the volunteers provide them with new exposure, and become role models in terms of the opportunities that can be created through education. The volunteers demonstrate to the learners how much they value education and how much they value the learners. Volunteers also help the learners to apply for tertiary education.
Student volunteers benefit through the exposure to different cultures and the spectrum of township life – the struggle, the chaos as well as the talent and the perseverance. The exposure broadens their worldviews, which benefits their future employability or postgraduate studies. In addition, the students gain practical, organisation, interpersonal and leadership skills and enjoy the positive environment and personal enrichment this experience affords them. All these serve to enhance the graduate attributes students acquire through the volunteer experience.
Christelle Viljoen student volunteer and former chairperson of Funda Fundisa, sums it up in the following way: "Initially, we think about how we will change other people's lives − not knowing how profoundly our lives will be shaped in the process. I also feel less nervous about taking on projects, since I have a greater belief in myself and in my ability to relate to a diverse group of people and of personalities".