Dedication rewarded with study bursaries

THREE Port Elizabeth school pupils are the recipients of R10 000 bursaries to further their studies next year.

The pupils, all in matric this year, were chosen from nine schools across Nelson Mandela Bay by their teachers.

Although not among the top performers academically, they were chosen based on their dedication to their school work and their disadvantaged backgrounds.

The Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality, in collaboration with the International Colleges Group (ICG), named them yesterday.

Recipient Asandiswa Mngci, 18, who attends the Khanyisa School for the Blind, said she would be studying towards a qualification in social work.

“I want to help others and this bursary will help me achieve that,” Mngci said.

“I worked hard. I’m happy we are being assisted as it will motivate other pupils.”

Tarryn Mwos 20, of Arcadia Secondary School, wants to be a teacher and hopes to become a role model to other young people in her community.

“I want to encourage other pupils from the northern areas to work hard and make a difference,” she said.

Sakhile Lose, 19, of Walmer High, wants to study law.

“We need more youth involved in shaping the future of South Africa,” Lose said. “With this bursary, I’ll be able to help move the country into a better place.”

Mayor Athol Trollip said while lacking opportunities, the pupils had persevered.

“This initiative speaks of creating an open-opportunity society for all,” he said.

“The qualification criteria of these pupils delved away from the norm, as it is for pupils who do not fit into the A category performance sector.”

ICG corporate marketer Busani Bhengu said: “In collaborating with the municipality, we were able to reach a wider spectrum with this group we have identified.”