Strengthening Education through after school programmes

Learning doesn’t stop when the school day ends. Afterschool programs give children extra support, help them understand what they learn in class, and teach important life skills. These programs help children grow, build confidence, and succeed both in school and in life. 

According to Skils Portal 81% of Grade 4 learners cannot read for meaning in any language, and only 30% in grade1-3 learners performs at a grade level. Although there have been some improvements in reading outcomes, at least pre-pandemic, it is estimated that at the current rates of progress we will only get to all children reading for meaning in South Africa decades from now. 

In response to this Letsatsi Solar park trust has partnered with Accelerated learning program and Nal’ibali. These programmes aimed to ensuring that grade 4 cannot reading for meaning.  

Nozimanga Dashe Accelerated Learning Project mentor shares that, “Accelerated Learning Programme is supporting learners through their levels because we assess them before intervention so that we can be specific about their levels of understanding and from home we just required parents to support them by assisting with any kind of material that they can use for example using stones to count’’.  

Nal’ibali a reading for enjoyment campaign also plays a vital role in helping close the gap of learners in our communities that are not able to read for a meaning, Nal’ibali has different reading clubs in both our communities that help to teach learners to read for a meaning and introduce the love for reading for enjoyment.  

Nthabiseng Kgakatsi Nal’ibali story sparker shared “ Nal’ibali Reading Clubs are important because they help children enjoy reading and improve their literacy skills. At the clubs, children can read stories, learn new words, and have fun with books. The reading clubs also give children confidence, encourage creativity, and help them learn to read for meaning. They bring children, parents, and volunteers together, showing that reading can be fun and part of everyday life”. 

Programs like the Accelerated Learning Programme and Nal’ibali Reading Clubs help children not only improve their reading skills but also enjoy learning. With extra support, fun activities, and help from the community, children feel confident and motivated. Parents and volunteers also help at home, making sure the learning continues every day. 

The Letsatsi Solar Park Trust remains dedicated to investing in educational initiatives that uplift communities and provide young learners with the opportunities they deserve. By addressing the literacy crisis head-on, the Trust is playing a crucial role in shaping a brighter future for the next generation.