STUDENT TEACHER HELD IN HIGH REGARD

October 2019

23 year old Richardine Jardine, from the small town of Pofadder, in the picturesque Northern Cape’s Namakwaland, has spread her wings to take up the opportunity to get a Bachelor of Education degree – Foundation Phase, (at Varsity College) in Cape Town.

Richardine recently completed her teaching practical in Grassy Park where she has received nothing but positive and supportive feedback from both the school’s Principal and the Teaching-Mentor who both believe she has a flair for teaching.

“Richardine has a wonderful personality, a calm approach with leaners and is very committed to teaching, furthermore, her integrity and values will no doubt ensure that she will be an asset to her profession,” said Mr De Kock, School Principal of Parkwood Primary, in Grassy Park (Western Cape).

With financial support from a Konkoonsies Solar Power bursary, she’ll complete her degree this year, before heading back home to Pofadder.

“I plan on settling back down in Pofadder as there is a great lack of teachers there, and to be with my son,” said Richardine.

The Konkoonsies Solar Power’s bursary programme, which has been running for over three years, gives learners living in Pofadder, Onseepkans and Pella access to tertiary education.  The programme has already benefited a number of local youth, who like Richardine are able to study towards fulfilling their dreams at universities and colleges around the country. The bursary programme covers tuition fees, travel and accommodation costs, book allowances and even a stipend.

“This bursary has meant a lot to me and my family – we don’t have any funds for studies as my mother doesn’t work, and my father passed away when I was young. Konkoonsies Solar Power has covered absolutely all my expenses including textbooks, accommodation and travel,” explained Richardine.