The learners of today are the leaders of tomorrow

The new academy will focus on producing well-rounded, emotionally intelligent future leaders

We are experiencing an education crisis in our country. School and university dropout rates are high and increasing. To pass matric, a learner only needs to achieve a 30% pass rate in each subject. To make matters worse, to enrol for a bachelor’s degree, a learner only needs to achieve a 50% average in the Grade 12 examinations. There is a tremendous demand for quality primary and secondary education, and this provides an opportunity for the private sector to become involved in the establishment of facilities where all children can receive highquality primary education. This will give them the tools to move forward to secondary and ultimately higher learning institutions.

One such facility is the Mbombela

Leadership Academy (MLA), which will open its doors in January 2023.

The MLA’s mission is centred within the Latin phrase “in fide ducimus et succedimus”, meaning “in faith we lead and succeed”. MLA is the brainchild of well-known businessman Riaan Venter, who will be joined by a team of educational specialists to support him in this calling.

“It is our intention to teach academically and in line with the Department of Education’s framework, but also to apply our minds to ensure that the learners become wellrounded, emotionally intelligent future leaders. The goal is to form leaders who will establish and develop a society that embraces respect, humbleness, discipline, mindfulness and sound leadership.

“Our classes will be limited to 25 learners. This will allow teachers time to become more in tune with each individual learner’s requirements. Where necessary, individual teaching methodologies can then be implemented to create an environment in which each learner can excel within their own ability,” said Venter.

MLA will have the following subjects:

English, Afrikaans and Siswati, maths, natural sciences, social sciences, Bible, life orientation, EMS, technology, computer studies and creative arts. All subjects will be presented in English. MLA will not offer any external sport activities, but participation will be encouraged to contribute towards learners’ social and interactive skills.

“The core values of MLA centre around leadership and a Christian ethos, aiming to impart values like honesty, respect, ambition and kindness. The intention is to provide quality education for grade one to seven learners. This dream started just about three years ago and will eventually manifest as multiple leadership academies throughout the region,” said Venter.

Should you wish to register your child for 2023, registration forms are available on the website, www.mbombelaleadershipacademy. co.za.