By Tokologo Lekoma

 

Despite inclement weather, the spirit of achievement and community shone brightly at the Nine Tenths Student Mentoring Programme's celebration on 22 February 2024. In partnership with GADRA Education, this celebratory event honoured a record-breaking number of 50 programme alumni first-year students registering at Rhodes University in 2024.

Anna Kinsler, the Nine Tenths Coordinator, expressed excitement over alumni's academic progress and outlined ambitious goals for 2024, aiming to make the programme a national leader in enhancing student retention and inclusivity in public schools. "We've already expanded by adding PJ Olivier, aiming for at least 60% to 65% bachelor's passes for all pupils registered in the five participating schools," she said.

Vice-Chancellor Professor Sizwe Mabizela said he had been delighted with the programme's achievements since its launch in 2016. He found it invigorating to see Rhodes University students involved with the community. "It is wonderful to see our students becoming big brothers and sisters by helping pupils with studying and time management, but it is also important for mentors to provide a listening ear."

Nine Tenths Student Leader and final-year BSc student Abenathi Nqweniso said, "I am excited about the progress and impact the programme will have on disadvantaged students, as it has had even in my life." Nqweniso encouraged future mentees to use their mentors for social capital and motivation because they were once in the same circumstances. "Mentees should be able to ask for past papers, extra tutoring, help with applications, and career guidance," they said.

The VC shared a sentiment similar to Nqweniso's: "Rhodes University students who are mentors are growing and developing as engaged, empathetic, and caring leaders and citizens. The programme is mutually beneficial because our students can reflect on their own experiences and develop the leadership qualities of a Rhodes University graduate."

According to Kinsler, one of the most rewarding lessons mentees learn is understanding the importance of cultivating healthy relationships. However, she insists that the majority become life-long friends and keep in regular contact with one another.

In addition to the amazing friends she has made, Nine Tenths alumnus Mihle Xhegwana said, "Rhodes University is a good university, but the transition from high school to being an adult has not been easy. I've had to pivot a lot and adjust." Alumnus Simthandile Peter described his transition to adulthood as, “It's been a nice experience because I now have full independence."

Not only does the programme produce outstanding academic achievers, Nine Tenths and Rhodes University won the 2021 MacJannet Prize for Global Citizenship. Launched in 2009, the award recognises university students and civic engagement initiatives worldwide. The VC pointed out that “our proud institution became the first university in the country and in fact on the African continent to be awarded this prestigious honour of first prize”.

Kinsler and the Community Engagement Division brought the programme's famous slogan, "Mentoring for Success," to life with this spectacular event. Congratulations to all the new mentees and mentors on this monumental accomplishment.