From classroom to the briny

NAUTICAL science pupils from Zwelibanzi and J G Zuma high schools in Umlazi had an opportunity to put the sailing knowledge learnt in class into practice when they took to the water in Durban Harbour yesterday.

The group took up the subject when it was first introduced at their schools last year as part of the new public schools curriculum.

The six-week sailing course is put together by Sail Africa, a Durban youth development foundation. They are taught everything from sailing terminology to tying the knots and steering the vessel. By the end of the course they should be able to rig and steer the boat into deep waters competently.

“Being able to do practical work gives us a better understanding of what we were taught in class, and for me it’s a great experience because I want to become a marine pilot one day,” said Mlondi Mzobe, a Grade 11 pupil from Zwelibanzi.

A teacher at Zwelibanzi, Zamokuhle Mbatha, said nautical science was previously taught at former Model C schools and the opportunity to learn about the maritime industry had now been opened up to pupils at township and rural schools.

“We still have a long way to go, but this is a positive start, even though we have challenges such as not having enough resources to teach the subject,” she said.

Her sentiments were echoed by Bheki Mbhele of J G Zuma who said they needed specialised classrooms.

For more information, telephone Sail Africa at 031 811 5326.