NEWS
Mnyakanya High School do it again!
Mnyakanya High School in Nkandla, KwaZulu-Natal, has recently learned that it has obtained a remarkable 90% pass rate in the annual Matriculation (Matric) Examinations, despite many challenges that were faced by the school in the last year.
Mnyakanya High School in Nkandla, KwaZulu-Natal, has recently learned that it has obtained a remarkable 90% pass rate in the annual Matriculation (Matric) Examinations, despite many challenges that were faced by the school in the last year.
Students celebrate their results
This result equals the school's record breaking 90% pass rate of 2023. In 2022 the pass rate was a commendable 86% and in 2021 it was 72%. It is not so many years ago that the pass rate was half that of the amazing results of this year and last so there is little wonder that this remote rural school is gaining the attention of the nation.
In 2023, Mnyakanya had 112 students who sat the national Matric exams. This was a huge number for the school with limited classrooms, teachers and resources. Learners had to be taught in overcrowded classrooms with teachers providing additional lessons in the evenings and weekends.
Star pupil Busisiwe Bhengu
The 2023 results surprised many people when 58 learners obtained a Bachelors Pass, which is the entry requirement to go to university, 31 learners obtained a Diploma Pass which is the entry requirement for Technical Colleges and 12 learners obtained the Higher Certificates which can provide access to Technical Colleges.
Busisiwe Bhengu who achieved the highest scores with no less than 6 Distinctions In her subjects, broke into tears of joy when she received the news of her achievements. Her grandmother, Mashezi Bhengu who takes care of her family by selling snacks at school said:
"I am so grateful that Busisiwe has broken the record by achieving such high results. I am so proud to know that she is the first student to obtain 6 distinctions in her subjects throughout the history of Mnyakanya High school."
Busisiwe's father, Mafuna Bhengu, passed the words of gratitude to the school principal and said:
"I'm so excited about the work done by the teachers for my daughter. I don’t have anything in my hands, but I wish I can do something for the school to show my appreciation. I am speechless, not knowing what to do because of excitement.
I wish to say a massive thanks to you Mr Principal and your staff, God bless you."
Mnyakanya High School results continue to attract students from different parts of the province and from other provinces. The school enrolment of 2024 has risen up to 950 students compared to 859 of 2023. There are many students who applied and could not be taken because the school is running short of enough space and furniture.
The Mnyakanya community is working hand in hand with the school to provide accommodation closer to the school for those students who wish to move to the area to attend the school. Again, teachers of the school are proving additional classes to cope with the massive increased demand.
Mr SV Ngubane, Principal of Mnyakanya congratulates students on their outstanding results
Mnyakanya School together with St. Mary’s School, Menston (UK) are the founding schools of the Bambisanani Partnership and have worked closely together for the benefit of students in both schools for the past 17 years. Mnyakanyal is now a very popular school not only for its outstanding examination results but for its sports activities, cultural activities and international links and educational opportunities through the Bambisanani Partnership. The addition of Computer Literacy as a subject in the school curriculum by the Bambisanani Partnership and Rotary International has been a major factor in increased academic achievement at the school.
The Chairperson of the school governing body, Mr Sguda Bhengu said:
"I am feeling very proud to be the Chairperson the school that is doing so well with its results. In all cases or events when I’m expected to introduce myself, I do not forget to p roudly mention that I am the Chairperson of Mnyakanya school governing body. This make my status to be respected even greater in the community, just because of the good work done at Mnyakanya”.
The delighted Principal of Mnyakanya, Mr SV Ngubane said, “2023 was the toughest year with many challenges. The Matric results could not be predicted at all because of these challenges. Teachers were extremely overloaded with work because the school was understaffed. The results that we obtained are from hard work and dedication of teachers and learners who sacrificed their time of seeing their families during holidays and during the week-ends. I cannot explain the joy that I have in my heart about what we achieved."
Students doing extra study after school
David Geldart from the Bambisanani Partnership added, “I am almost lost for words at the remarkable continued progress at Mnyakanya School. The teachers and students deserve the utmost praise and congratulations for their outstanding work. Many students routinely walk two hours to and from school each day because they want an education. Relatively few resources and class sizes of 60 plus are the norm. There is a shortage of teachers at the school and those that are there go the extra mile continually for their students by working additional hours before school, after school, weekends and holidays! The young people and their educators are an inspiration and students and teachers from other parts of the world have much to learn from their commitment, determination and resilience. This success is achieved against all the odds and is thoroughly deserved. The Bambisanani Partnership is honoured to be working with such a school and to have made a small contribution to its success that we can all learn from.”
Published: 07/02/2024
Bambisanani Awards continue to inspire
The annual Bambisanani Awards are always a cause of great interest and excitement as they continue to recognise, reward and inspire young people in South Africa and the UK.
The annual Bambisanani Awards are always a cause of great interest and excitement as they continue to recognise, reward and inspire young people in South Africa and the UK.
At Vumanhlamvu Primary School, 3 Bambisanani Awards were presented in memory of Jordan Sinnott:
The Sports Leader of the Year was named as Philani Shezi, the football team captain for 2023
"I would like to thank the Bambisanani Partnership, my school and the Sinnott family for giving me this opportunity to participate in sports and show my leadership. I am so very happy to be announced as a winner of this big award. I thank the Bambisanani Partnership for donating sports equipment."
Sportswomen of the Year was Silindokuhle Mvela who was 100 meters District Champion in Athletics in 2023.
"The Bambisanani Athletics programme in our school has helped me to be a winner and to represent Nkandla at District level. Thank you, Bambisanani Partnership, for introducing the Athletics Challenge and donating equipment which has helped us a lot. I am very proud to lift the trophy in memory of Jordan.”
Sportsman of the Year was Simphilele Ngonyama who was the top goal scorer in the local Schools Football Tournament in 2023.
"l would like to thank my school and the Bambisanani partnership for the beautiful programme which has helped us to improve not only in sports but in our other school subjects as well. I am honoured to raise the Jordan Sinnott Award for Sportsman of the Year; I am inspired to do more.”
William Vilakazi, Principal of Vumanhlamvu remarked, "Having Jordan Sinnott Awards in our school inspires learners. The awards help learners from a young age to develop not only sporting skills but also the social skills to work with their teammates, make new friends and learn how rewarding it is to participate in team sports. It has also improved self-esteem of most learners in our school, learners are hungry to succeed in all sports activities in order to lift these prestigious awards. We thank the Sinnott family and we were so sorry to hear recently of the passing of Jordan’s Mum, Melanie, who was a great supporter of the Bambisanani Partnership and of our school; May she Rest in Peace with Jordan.”
At Mnyakanya High School, 8 Awards were presented to learners by Miss Charlotte Wood from St. Mary’s during the recent visit to South Africa by student volunteers:
Laurie McCauley Most Improved Footballer Award: Velani Mtshali
Laurie McCauley Creative Writing Award: Athandile Gumede
Helping Others Achieve Their Potential Award: Uyabusa Mvubu
True Spirit of Sport Award: Nombulelo Shangase
Sbonelo Magwaza Outstanding Leadership Award: Bayanda Gcaba
Sportswoman of the Year Award: Seluleko Nzuza
Sportsman of the Year Award: Luthando Mnqayi
The Sbonelo Magwaza Award for Outstanding leadership: Anna Ciesluk
A Sbonelo Magwaza Outstanding Leadership Award is also presented at St. Mary’s, Menston to a student volunteer from the school who has shown exceptional leadership in South Africa. Speaking at an Awards Ceremony Miss Charlotte Wood said, “I would just like to say that Mr Harvey, Mrs. Chattoe and I were and still are super proud of all of the St. Mary’s students who worked out in South Africa in July 2023. Whilst working on the project, the Bambisanani team are asked to nominate a student for this award. The team are looking for someone who has demonstrated an outstanding commitment to the work of the partnership. The recipient of this award knew they wanted to be involved in the work of The Bambisanani Partnership when they joined St. Mary’s in Year 7, and upon hearing they had a place on the visit, this student did everything they could to make sure they were fully prepared for their work in South Africa and were adamant they would do what it takes to get the best out of it. The winner of this award is very special. They truly encompass everything that the partnership is about. Compassion, Service Kindness. In the final blog of the visit, Mr. Harvey said this person was born to lead, always the first to volunteer, chatted with everyone an couldn’t be phased by any challenge. She is an exceptional young person. I am delighted to award The Sbonelo Magwaza Award for Outstanding leadership to Anna Ciesluk.”
The Heather Read Award for Outstanding Resilience goes to Ntuli Samkelisiwe
It was a great honour this year to unveil and introduce a completely new annual award at Mnyakanya School: The Heather Read Award for Outstanding Resilience. At the presentation ceremony Mrs Catherine Chattoe, Bambisanani Coordinator at St. Mary’s visiting South Africa said:
“Heather Read loved the Bambisanani Partnership and was a great supporter of the charity. The Bambisanani Partnership has a longstanding special relationship with Rotarians in the UK, South Africa and internationally and Heather was instrumental in so many of our joint projects that have transformed young people’s lives in South Africa. Heather was the first female President of the UK’s Aireborough Rotary Club in its history of more than 60 years. Heather was a volunteer at a charity shop for a cancer Hospice. She was a vice principal at a special school. A church warden at St Peter’s Parish Church in Rawdon. A school governor at St Peter’s Church of England Primary. She was also a Community Ambassador for a local cancer charity. Heather Read was ground breaking in her election as president, she challenged the rules of the society, she paved the way and made the society more responsive and inclusive. She showed compassion to everyone she met. She was the corner stone of her family and a support to all her friends. She spent her whole career teaching children and young adults who found life challenging. She helped people become the best that they could be.
The recipient of this award has, successfully coped with difficult or challenging life experiences. Shown mental and emotional strength when faced with problems, proved to be a good friend and team member, acting with compassion and understanding. This person always has a positive outlook. The Heather Read Award for Outstanding Resilience goes to Ntuli Samkelisiwe”
Additionally, at Mnyakanya three Bambisanani Awards were presented to educators, Mr SV Nugubane, Mrs PK Zondi and Miss M Langa for their outstanding contribution to the partnership.
Three Bambisanani Awards were also presented for Ntolwane Primary School:
Sportswomen of the Year Award: Luyanda Magwaza
Sportsman of the Year Award: Thobani Mhlongo
Sports Leader of the Year Award: Samkelisiwi Geada
Mr Moses Xulu, Bambisanani Coordinator at Ntolwane said, “I wish to highlight the importance of Bambisanani Awards in our school. Bambisanani Awards at Ntolwane play a pivotal role in ensuring that our learners do participate in a wide range of sporting activities. In short, the awards are a motivator and encourager to all participants who love sports; at Ntolwane they have created more interest in sports which benefits the entire curriculum."
David Geldart from the partnership said, “Congratulations to all the recipients of this year’s awards. Many thanks also to the teachers in all of our schools that continue to provide learners with the opportunities, encouragement and support that enables them to shine and to be recognised. Special thanks to Monsignor Vladimir Felzmann (Father Vlad) for his tremendous support with these awards. We remember especially at this time the awards in memory of Laurie McCauley, Sbonelo Magwaza, Jordan Sinnott and Heather Read; we know that these awards, that motivate and inspire others, bring strength and comfort to their families. What we also know is that many students already have an eye to the awards in 2024!”
Published: 21/12/2023
Wonderful Christmas Messages between the Two Bambisanani Founding Schools
The wonderful Christmas messages between St. Mary’s school in Menston and Mnyakanya High School in Nkandlda epitomise the very special relationship that exists between the two schools – two schools that have been committed to working together and learning together for 17 years.
The wonderful Christmas messages between St. Mary’s school in Menston and Mnyakanya High School in Nkandlda epitomise the very special relationship that exists between the two schools – two schools that have been committed to working together and learning together for 17 years.
Message from Mnyakanya to St. Mary’s
As the joyous season of Christmas approaches we find ourselves thinking of each and every one of you at St Mary’s Menston. Although we may be physically separated by 9,000 miles, know that you are always close in our hearts, especially during this magical time of the year.
Christmas is a time for celebration, love and togetherness. It is time to reflect on the blessings we have received and share warmth and happiness with the people we hold dear. Even though we cannot be physically together with one another, our partnership transcends distance and time.
We want St. Mary’s to know that you are always in our thoughts and your presence is felt even from afar. The memories we have created together, the laughter and the shared experiences are etched in our hearts and bring a smile to our faces, no matter where life takes us, the bonds we've formed remain unbreakable.
Mnyakanya High School and St. Mary’s cannot gather around the same table or exchange gifts at this time of year but we would like to express our heartfelt appreciation for our partnership. Thank you for bringing light into our lives and enriching it with your presence, we will be forever grateful and eternally thankful.
May the spirit of Christmas fill your hearts with peace and happiness. May the twinkling lights and cheerful melodies remind you of cherished moments we've shared and bring a sense of warmth and familiarity.
We wish you all a very Merry Christmas filled with love, laughter and beautiful memories. May the coming year bring you boundless opportunities, success, and happiness. Know that you are cherished and loved.
With warmest wishes
The Mnyakanya Community
Message from St. Mary’s to Mnyakanya
Please find below a Christmas blessing to the Mnyakanya community from St. Mary's.
Our dearest friends-
'In praise and thanksgiving,
Lets us rejoice as we await our Saviour
Christ the Lord,
God within us,
Prince of Peace'
In this season of advent our hearts reach out to you across the miles.
Our partnership consolidates that mutual warmth, happiness, laughter and shared experience.
Those unbreakable bonds of friendship and brotherhood are felt never so strongly as at this time of year.
We wish you all the joy of Christmas and every blessing in the new year to come, with new challenges, new opportunities and endless possibility.
With our love and warmest wishes
All your friends…
Best exam results ever bring joy to Mnyakanya School
There were remarkable scenes of joy recently at Mnyakanya High School in rural KwaZulu-Natal when the annual Matriculation (Matric) results were announced with the school gaining its best results ever.
There were remarkable scenes of joy recently at Mnyakanya High School in rural KwaZulu-Natal when the annual Matriculation (Matric) results were announced with the school gaining its best results ever.
Together with St. Mary’s School, Menston in the UK, Mnyakanya helped found the Bambisanani Partnership in 2006. Two years ago, 72% of students passed the Matric exam, which was the best to date, last year the record was broken again with 86% of students passing the exam. This year has seen the school make even further progress with a record 90.5% of students gaining the coveted pass.
The national Matric exam is based on Grade 12 students (final year) having to gain passes in a wide range of individual subject areas. Of 105 students at Mnyakanya, 54 obtained a ‘Bachelor Pass’ which is the entry requirement for university. 28 students achieved a ‘Diploma Pass’ which is the entry requirement for Technical Colleges and 14 students gained the ‘Higher Certificate’ which can provide access to Vocational Colleges.
The spectacular year on year improvement in attainment has brought widespread praise for the school from all parts of the province and beyond. Over the past three years, enrolment at the school has almost doubled with students often travelling many miles, and others even relocating to attend the school. All this has been achieved in the context of the school serving one of the most challenging remote, rural areas in the country with high levels of deprivation, unemployment and health issues. Add to this the impact of Covid, water shortages and daily power outages then what is happening at Mnyakanya is nothing short of remarkable. Teachers at the school have relatively limited resources, yet provide many extra hours of teaching and support for students late into the evening and at weekends.
The Circuit Chief Education Specialist Mr SW Mthethwa visited the school in person to pass on his congratulations: “I decided to leave all that I was supposed to do in my office to come and pass on my sincere words of gratitude to all the teachers who worked extremely hard to shine a light on the name of our circuit, our district and our province as a whole. The hard work and commitment of teachers and learners is highly recognised by everyone.”
The Principal of Mnyakanya School, Mr SV Ngubane said: "It is an honour for us as a school to get these results. These are the results of hard work from both teachers and learners. The commitment of our teachers and students to their work was extraordinary. Our teachers sacrificed their own spare time that they would have been spent with their families, in order to teach our students. Without their remarkable effort and dedication, we wouldn’t have obtained this pass percentage.”
Mrs Pk Zondi a teacher and the Bambisanani Partnership co-ordinator at Mnyakanya said: “Words cannot explain the joy that the Mnyakanya community has because of these the results. They make everybody proud to be at Mnyakanya. It is also amazing that student enrolment has increased by almost 50% in 2023 because of our continued improvement and growing reputation. With the help of the Bambisanani Partnership and Rotary International we have been able to introduce computers to the school and computer-based subjects; this is helping to transform learning and raise levels of aspiration. Such developments are improving the self-esteem of our learners and their hope for the future. I wish to thank everyone who has contributed positively towards the development of our school."
David Geldart, Founder of the Bambisanani Partnership added, “This success is remarkable but not surprising. At Mnyakanya we have teachers that go the extra mile every day for their students. We have students that are prepared to walk two hours to and from school each day because they value and appreciate education. We have been able to bring the internet and computers to the school and the teachers and learners have seized the opportunity; opportunities that many young people in the world would take for granted. Given the new resources it is not at all surprising that these intelligent and resourceful young people are now achieving more. Since the beginning of this partnership, I have been constantly inspired and humbled by the determination and desire of Zulu students to study and learn. Students from other parts of the world have much to learn from these outstanding young people. Massive congratulations must go to the wonderful teachers and learners at Mnyakanya School. These glorious results are nothing less than they deserve for all their hard work!”
South African visit strengthens Bambisanani Partnership
Members of the Bambisanani Partnership team have recently travelled to South Africa in a post Covid ‘Research and Development’ visit to reinstate programmes and to develop new ones.
Members of the Bambisanani Partnership team have recently travelled to South Africa in a post Covid ‘Research and Development’ visit to reinstate programmes and to develop new ones.
Catherine Chattoe, Bambisanani Partnership Coordinator at St. Mary’s, Menston, Barbara Pounder, Bambisanani Trustee and Brogan O’Connor and Barry Rizza from the very latest Bambisanani partner institute, Newcastle College, were able to spend valuable ‘in person time’ with old colleagues and friends as well establishing new contacts and relationships. This follows on from a very effective Research and Development visit made by Bambisanani team members from the University of Leeds and Leeds Trinity University last year.
A key element of both trips has been to plan and prepare for the resumption of student volunteer visits later this year. For Newcastle College these would be the first student visits ever to South Africa. Student visits from all four Bambisanani partnership UK based institutions have subsequently been confirmed to the Nkandla region of KwaZulu-Natal from June to August this year.
The KwaZulu-Natal Department of Education has been an important Bambisanani partner since the inception of the initiative seventeen years ago. This has been led by Chief Education Advisor, Tony Moodley. The team were able to meet with Tony and his colleague Priscilla Guliwe to be updated on the challenges faced in the deep rural areas. These meetings were incredibly successful and afforded the team the chance to explore emerging opportunities for South African and UK Bambisanani partners to review and strengthen existing programmes as well as to consider new collaborations with both existing partners and potentially new ones.
After three years it was an emotional return to longstanding Bambisanani partners Mnyakanya High School, Ntolwane Primary School and to Doremi Day Care Centre for orphans and vulnerable children. Again, based on local needs, existing and potential programmes were discussed. The visit to Mnyakanya School was aptly timed so that Catherine Chattoe and the team could support the final part of the International Rotary Grant that provided Mnyakanya High School with equipment for a ICT suite of 40 computers and the finances to fund a teacher to deliver the newly introduced Computer Applications Technology (CAT) course at the school. Catherine and the team were on hand to help set up and install the final 20 computers into the suite and meet with the newly appointed CAT teacher; Phakamani Mbambo, the day before teaching would begin at the school. This development, over several years, has contributed to a significant improvement in educational attainment at the school and so it was timely to see new computers arrive and hear about how all of this will further raise standards in the future.
Tony Moodley and Mr Dlamini, Principal of Thembinfundo Special School
Just before the outbreak of Covid the partnership had started to explore the idea of working with Thembinfundo Special School to develop a programme of adapted Physical Education and Sport. The opportunity to visit the school, see the children and meet with the Principal Mr Dlamini simply could not have been replicated by any number of Zoom meetings. Barbara Pounder, who is a specialist in this area, said, “The meeting and whole experience was very positive. There is enormous potential at Theminfundo Special School to support considerable curriculum development and to create volunteer opportunities for UK students. To work with children with such a range of Special Needs in such a warm and encouraging environment could be one of the ways the Bambisanani Partnership makes a significant difference in the future.” The partnership has already committed to providing specialised equipment to the school with support of the Rob Stephenson Trust and there are now plans to start volunteer visits in July.
Several meetings also took place with ‘new’ schools that are keen to join the partnership, these included: Ngqamzane Primary, Thembalesizwe Primary, Enyawoshane Primary, Kwa-Manqondo Primary, Ndukuyakhe Primary, Magqama High and Matholamnyama High. These meetings enabled the team to listen to different partnership possibilities and to explore other areas to develop the Bambisanani Cycling initiative, Cycling for Success, which teaches young people how to both ride and maintain bikes. These meetings were particularly useful for Newcastle College who are looking to establish completely new additional partnerships links within the Bambisanani family.
A major area of success for the partnership during the ‘Covid years’ was the development of the Bambisanani International Athletics Challenge that linked primary schools in the UK and South Africa in fun Athletic Challenges. During the visit the team were able to visit Vumanhlamvu Primary School and provide a Training Workshop for teachers from schools already part of the programme and for schools that will join the programme this year. The training was a great success as indicated by the Vumanhlamvu Principle, Mr William Vilakazi, ‘We feel so blessed to be reconnected in person after Covid 19. Thank you very much for the coaching session you delivered to our local primary school educators. Educators know exactly what to do when it comes to delivering the International Athletic Challenge; they have confidence now and will pass this on to other educators. There was a little bit of confusion previously with some elements of the programme but not now. It has helped our educators a lot. You instilled the love of Athletics to both my educators and learners. It has increased the competition in both sports and in classrooms. Together with the equipment provided we can now interact, compete and learn with educators and learners in the UK on equal terms. We are now well placed to grow the programme further.” William has been instrumental in a number of Bambisanani developments and has coordinated the Athletics Challenge in the area with many schools that had no previous experience of Athletics. Whilst at the school the team were able to deliver more Sinnott 25 football shirts in memory of Jordan Sinnott. Jordan was a big supporter of the Bambisanani Partnership and the Jordan Sinnott Foundation now works in close cooperation with the charity.
A particularly rewarding part of the visit was when Catherine and her team were able to deliver handmade kits designed to help girls who are menstruating. Over 80 South African girls were gifted a kit that provides menstrual care and allows them to manage their periods so that they can attend school every day. The kits were made by a group of volunteers from Aireborough Rotary Club and delivered by the Bambisanani team; the two institutions have been working closely together for 17 years. The South African girls were delighted with the kits and many claimed it allows them to live their lives with dignity.
Other valuable meetings took place with Nick Phillips and Graham Chennells from Eshowe Rotary Club. Nick and Graham are vasty experienced in rural development projects have supported and guided the partnership in a range of projects and programmes over the years. Their insight and advice are a phenomenal asset to the partnership and greatly appreciated.
No Bambisanani visit to South Africa is ever complete without spending time with the longest serving Bambisanani supporters, Logan Govender, Rajes Govender and Mahesh Naidoo and this visit was certainly no exception in that regard. The team were welcomed into the country at the airport by Logan, Rajes and Mahesh and also spent time with them at their home in Durban on the final day of the visit. Every encounter with members of this amazing family encourages, empowers and inspires the work of the partnership and the individuals involved.
Summarising a remarkable week in South Africa, visit leader Catherine Chattoe said, ‘The whole experience was so invaluable, existing connections and friendships have been strengthened and very importantly new relationships have been formed during the visit. We had worked really hard with virtual meetings during the last three years to maintain existing relationships and indeed to develop new ones but nothing quite compares to the very special human connection when meeting and spending time with people in person. The visit has enhanced the capacity of the two countries to work together, existing programmes can now flourish and new ones will be created. The vision for the future looks very exciting.”
Bambisanani Trustee, Brogan O’Connor added, “The visit has been absolutely invaluable for me personally, for Newcastle College and of course for the ongoing development of the partnership. Reconnecting with old friends and creating new contacts was a great learning experience for me. That experience will now certainly lead to a visit to South Africa by staff and students from Newcastle College this summer as we become the latest members of the partnership from the UK. As with every visit to South Africa we have returned home with great positivity, motivation, and a greater understanding of a fascinating culture; all four of us are inspired by the possibilities that lay ahead. We now have a clear vision for the future of Newcastle College as a member the Bambisanani Partnership and we will be spending the next five months working towards making that a reality.”
David Geldart, Founder and Chair of the Bambisanani Partnership was full of praise for the team, “Massive thanks must go to Catherine, Barbara, Brogan and Barry. They have worked extraordinarily hard and have clearly moved the partnership forward, creating a tremendous platform on which to launch our most ambitious year to date. It is difficult to believe that they did so much and achieved so much in such a short time. Their outstanding work will create so many more opportunities now for educators and learners from both countries to ‘work together and learn together’ in the true spirit of Ubuntu and Bambisanani. Their enthusiasm, determination and proactivity are inspirational and are the very reason that we are continually able to achieve so much. Thank you also of course to our amazing and rapidly growing team in South Africa who were so welcoming and made the week so positive and productive. We will build on this.”
Bambisanani Partnership schools lead the way in Pope Francis’ call for Sport for All
Member schools of the Bambisanani Partnership from the Nkandla region of KwaZulu-Natal in South Africa and from Leeds in the UK have become the first schools in the world to pledge their support to Pope Francis’ global appeal to make sport more cohesive, accessible and inclusive.
Member schools of the Bambisanani Partnership from the Nkandla region of KwaZulu-Natal in South Africa and from Leeds in the UK have become the first schools in the world to pledge their support to Pope Francis’ global appeal to make sport more cohesive, accessible and inclusive.
At the Global Sport for All Summit last September, Pope Francis outlined the potential of sport as a positive force in society. The Summit was a multifaith event attended by 250 delegates from 40 countries representing the world’s leading sporting organisations and practitioners. The aim was to discuss and promote the social and inclusive dimension of sport in society. It was in response to Pope Francis’ encouragement of sport that is socially responsible and his appeals to foster sport as a means of human, educational and spiritual growth. The Summit produced a Declaration calling on all those involved to commit to making sport more cohesive, accessible and tailored to each person. With the momentum and guidance of the experts convened at the Summit, participants pledged to walk together – communiter – to achieve common goals and aspirations. On the final day of the Summit, delegates signed the Sport for All Declaration in the presence of Pope Francis. As such, signatories committed to bringing the Declaration to life. Fundamental to this task is the understanding that the Declaration is not just a statement of principles, but a Declar-Action, an invitation to concrete actions; using the power of sport for the future of society. Subsequently, an online version of the Declaration has become available to sign.
In his speech to delegates Pope Francis said: “I encourage you to strive to make sport a home for everyone, something open and welcoming. In this home, never lose the family spirit, for in this way, we may find brothers, sisters and friends in the world of sport. I am close to you in this mission; the Church supports you in this educational and social commitment.”
The first group of schools from the UK to sign the Declaration was The Bishop Wheeler Catholic Academy Trust of 13 schools from Leeds, including individual commitments from high school, St. Mary’s, Menston (Bambisanani Partnership Founding School), and primary schools: St. Mary’s, Horsforth, St. Joseph’s, Otley; St Joseph’s, Knaresborough and St. Joseph’s, Harrogate. The first schools in South Africa to sign were Mnyakanya High School (Bambisanani Founding School) and Vumanhlamvu Primary School.
David Geldart signing the declaration at the Vatican
The Bambisanani Partnership charity works with schools in the UK and South Africa using the power of sport to promote education, health, global citizenship and leadership; bringing young people from both countries together in order ‘to work together and learn together’. The charity has gained international acclaim for its pioneering work and its Founder David Geldart was a delegate at the Summit. David said: “It was a great honour to attend this landmark Summit and of course to meet Pope Francis who truly believes in the potential of sport as a force for good in the world. I am absolutely delighted that our schools from Leeds and the remote Nkandla region of South Africa have become the first schools in their respective countries, and indeed the world, to sign the Declaration and show their commitment to the power of sport within education. Hopefully more schools throughout the world will now follow.Organisations and individuals from around the world have now signed the Declaration. First to sign the Declaration at the Summit was Thomas Bach, President of the International Olympic Committee, so we are in good company! The potential of high quality, inclusive Physical Education and Sports programmes in our schools, colleges and universities to make a unique and significant contribution in this area is enormous. Educational establishments throughout world that value sport and believe passionately that it should genuinely be for all; cohesive, accessible and inclusive, should sign the Declaration, they could add so much to what needs to be a ‘team effort’. I would love to see a network of schools, colleges and universities through the world commit to this challenge and work collaboratively as advocates to share best practices, celebrate success and support each other in solidarity. In our small way the Bambisanani Partnership has got the ball rolling. If you share this vision of sport, you are very much invited to play!”
Darren Beardsley, CEO of the Bishop Wheeler Catholic Academy Trust said: “As an Academy Trust of 13 schools, we are delighted to be able to support the Sport for All summit declaration. We witness the power of sport in our schools on a daily basis and how it can be used to enhance the wider skills and development of our pupils. Sport plays an important role in social cohesion and this is particularly important when we take into account the challenges faced by wider society in today's world. The declaration highlights the importance of sport being cohesive, accessible and tailored. Our schools are welcoming organisations, where we work with our communities to meet the needs of all individuals, therefore our values and mission align with that of the declaration. Finally, the Declaration is a call to Declar-Action and we are privileged to be part of such a dynamic agreement.”
Those who wish to support declaration can sign it on the website www.sportforall.va
Also see related:
Special Christmas messages from the Bambisanani founding schools
St. Mary’s, Menston and Mnyakanya School in South Africa founded the Bambisanani Partnership together sixteen years ago.
St. Mary’s, Menston and Mnyakanya School in South Africa founded the Bambisanani Partnership together sixteen years ago.
The annual Christmas messages to each other reflect the special bond that exists between the two schools and their commitment to ‘work together and learn together’.
St. Mary’s Menston
A Christmas message to Mnyakanya High School, 2022
Dear friends, Ubuntu.
Our Avent theme this year is:
Faith Hope Joy Love Light
We are two communities joined by Faith and we share a mutual Love of one another.
Our partnership brings unimaginable Joy to so many and our Hope is that our work continues for generations to come.
We pray that God’s Light shines upon you all during this blessed season of Advent and especially so this Christmas.
With love from St. Mary’s community.
Mnyakayna High School
A Christmas message from Mnyakanya High School in South Africa to St. Mary’s Menston
This is a special time of the year when we at Mnyakanya High School take our time to look back and count our blessings for the year we have just had.
We would like to say that St. Mary’s Menston has been a great blessing to the Mnyakanya community over the last 16 years.
The love that you have shown us, has healed the wounds of many people in our community.
St. Mary’s have become part of the Mnyakanya family and its community. It is unbelievable that St. Marys is located more than 9,000 miles away from Mnyakanya, but we feel like you sense all our situations and our needs. It is amazing that we can chat and plan things together as if we are living in the same place.
We are always learning from your culture and from your humanity. You have helped us create a culture of caring for others, humbleness and Ubuntu, I am because we are.
We would like to wish you all a MERRY CHRISTMAS that is full of all the blessings from God.
May God bless you ALL with a healthy life and prosperity throughout your life.
With love from the Mnyakanya Community
Bambisanani Partnership Awards inspire students in KwaZulu-Natal
Mnyakanya High School in rural KwaZulu-Natal was the co-founding school of the Bambisanani Partnership together with St. Mary’s, Menston, in the UK. Recently Mnyakanya held a special ceremony to present the annual Bambisanani awards to seven outstanding students.
Mnyakanya High School in rural KwaZulu-Natal was the co-founding school of the Bambisanani Partnership together with St. Mary’s, Menston, in the UK. Recently Mnyakanya held a special ceremony to present the annual Bambisanani awards to seven outstanding students.
From left to right: Lungelo Mkhize, Okuhle Dlezi, Norma Magwaza, Nqubeko Nene, Luthando Mnqayi, Mlamuli Ndlovu, Athandile Gumede
Mrs Pk Zondi, Bambisanani coordinator at Mnyakanya said “These prestigious awards continue to be a great inspiration to our young people with many of them working so hard to achieve them. It is difficult to explain just how much these awards change the mindset of the young people in our community. They develop higher self-esteem and are encouraged to do more good things for the school and for the community. The awards also prepare them to be more confident citizens for the future. The evidence shows that many of the award winners go on to be very successful in life. I do not really have the words to thank the Bambisanani Partnership enough for creating these ongoing opportunities for our young people to grow and succeed.”
The 2022 Bambisanani Partnership Award winners
Norma Magwaza: BambisananI Sportswoman of the Year
Luthando Mnqayi: Bambisanani Sportsman of the Year
Lungelo Mkhize: Laurie McCauley Legacy Award for the Most Improved Footballer.
Athandile Gumede: Laurie McCauley Legacy Award for Creative Writing
Mlamuli Ndlovu: Sibonelo Magwaza, Outstanding Leadership Award
Okuhle Dlezi: John Paul II Foundation for Sport, Helping Others Achieve their Potential Award.
Nqubeko Nene: John Paul II Foundation for Sport, True Spirit of Sport Award.
The recipients were clearly delighted and greatly honoured with the awards:
The Helping Others Achieve Their Potential Award winner, Okuhle Dlezi, was inspired by her sister who received the Laurie McCauley Legacy Award for Creative writing in 2020. Dlezi said:
“My home is about 244 km (150 miles) from Mnyakanya but I was so inspired to see my sister awarded for Creative Writing in 2020 in this school that it encouraged me to come to Mnyakanya. I can’t believe that in 2022 is my turn to be famous. Achieving this special award has truly been a very honourable moment for me. I always find it as a duty to help other students to recognise and master their potential to the best of their ability. My sole intention is to carry on reminding each and every student of what we are all capable of and that is nothing but greatness."
Sportswoman of the Year Award winner, Norma Magwaza commented:
"I felt very motivated and proud to be honoured as a Sportswoman of the Year in front of a big audience of students and parents. This means a lot to me as a young netball player who wishes to play for the big teams in future. These Awards have developed my self-esteem. I wish to thank all those who made this happen.”
Nqubeko Nene, John Paul II Foundation for Sport, True Spirit of Sport Award winner who is doing his first year at Mnyakanya said:
“I felt like a king of sport when I was awarded for John Paul II Foundation for Sport Award for the True Spirit of Sport. I felt like I could scream because of the excitement. I am very proud of myself.
I never thought that coming to Mnyakanya High School will make me a legend. I wish to thank the Bambisanani Partnership for opening these opportunities."
A very excited Sportsman of The Year, Luthando Mnqayi added:
"I feel privileged for being honoured as a Sportsman of the Year. I love soccer. It is the effort, hard work and determination that has put me in this position. I am really grateful to all the Mnyakanya learners that gave me support to push through in all my soccer games. I would also like to encourage other young people to believe in themselves and work hard so that they achieve more in life. I do not have enough words to express my excitement; the joy inside me is overwhelming. I wish to thank all those who made this happen."
Lungelo Mkhize who was recognised as the Most Improved Footballer said:
"It is a great honour to receive this award in memory of Laurie McCauley. I can’t believe that this award comes to me this year. I feel very famous in my school and in my community. This is motivating me more in the love of sport. It gives me hope that in future."
Mlamuli Ndlovu who received the Sibonelo Magwaza Award for Outstanding Leadership said:
"Receiving this award in memory of Sibonelo is a great honour to me. It made me feel special and important at school. I did not believe that I would be the one who receive this award. It has helped my self-image and developed my confidence. I hope this will help other learners to learn something from me."
Athandile Gumede who was awarded for Creative Writing remarked:
“The Laurie McCauley Award brings me joy and excitement that is difficult to explain. I started creative writing with my friend as a hobby. However, the recognition I got from school through this award has made me feel great and I now see this as an opportunity for my future. I am indeed excited, for all this is yet to come."
Mnyakanya Principal, Mr S.V Ngubane, who joined the school in 2020, commented:
Mnyakanya Principal, Mr S.V Ngubane
"The impact that these awards have on creating a positive learning environment is amazing. They make each learner feel special at school. These awards encourage us to recognise and appreciate each and every skill that the learners have. They encourage active participation of learners in all school activities which leads to higher pass rates of students at the end of the year. I would like to pass my humble appreciation to everyone who contributed to make this idea come true. Thanks again to the Bambisanani Partnership.”
Speaking on behalf of the Bambisanani Partnership, David Geldart added:
“Congratulations to all seven very worthy recipients of these much sort after awards. The fantastic efforts of the young people at Mnyakanya never cease to amaze me. Great credit must also go to the teachers at Mnyakanya who, despite some very challenging circumstances, nurture this amazing talent that is just waiting to be unlocked. We especially remember Laurie and Sibonelo at this time. The McCauley and Magwaza families are always keen to hear about the recipients of the awards. Special thanks, as ever, to Father Vlad and the John Paul II Foundation for Sport for their continued support and sponsorship. Throughout my time in education, I have always believed very strongly in recognising and rewarding achievement in all its facets. It is quite remarkable just how much these awards motivate and inspire; long may it continue! Well done and thank you again to everyone involved.”
Mnyakanya School celebrates best exam results ever!
Students jumped for joy on receiving the best ever Matriculation exam results at Mnyakanya School in rural KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa. Together with St. Mary’s, Menston, Mnyakanya School helped found the multi-award winning Bambisanani Partnership in 2006.
Students jumped for joy on receiving the best ever Matriculation exam results at Mnyakanya School in rural KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa. Together with St. Mary’s, Menston, Mnyakanya School helped found the multi-award winning Bambisanani Partnership in 2006.
Last year 72% of students passed the Matriculation exam, which was the best to date. This year, a remarkable 86% of students gained a pass.
The national Matric exam is based on Grade 12 students having to gain passes across a wide range of individual subjects. Of 97 students, 40 obtained a ‘Bachelor Pass’ which is the entry required for university. 28 students achieved a ‘Diploma Pass’ which is the entry requirement for Technical Colleges and 13 students gained the ‘Higher Certificate’ which can provide access to Vocational Colleges.
Mnyakanya is situated in one of the country’s most challenging rural regions with high levels of deprivation, unemployment and health issues. Life is tough at the best of times but the last two years has been particularly difficult with all that Covid has brought. Add to this, issues with both water and electricity supply and a period of civil disruption, then the results are even more amazing. Teachers at the school have provided many extra lessons after school, evenings and at weekends to help students prepare for the exams. This is even more remarkable when considering many of the students walk two hours to and from school each day.
Mrs Pk Zondi, Bambisanani Partnership coordinator at Mnyakanaya, reported ‘great excitement’ when the results were announced with community members rushing to the school to join the celebrations with singing and dancing. Many officials from the Municipality and Department of Education have subsequently visited the school to pass on their congratulations.
““We would not be in this position without the support of the Bambisanani Partnership and in particular St. Mary’s School, Leeds Trinity University and the University of Leeds. The partnership has been with us at our most challenging of times. The growing success of the school has led to a 40% increase in students wishing to attend and this despite having to walk long distances to do so. We would like to thank all those who have contributed to creating a better future for our young people.””
“We are overwhelmed with the results. This is great achievement and progress when you look at the challenges of recent years.””
““I simply cannot praise the educators and learners at Mnyakanya enough; in every sense they continue to go the extra mile. Their determination to succeed is genuinely inspirational. As a partnership our charity now works with primary schools, secondary schools, colleges and universities in both the UK and South Africa. Our work is about helping young people in both countries achieve their potential. Mnyakanya School provides an oasis of hope for young people; all those involved in our partnership will gain strength from these remarkable and thoroughly deserved results which have been achieved with limited material resources. Despite the challenges, we sincerely hope that as many students as possible will be able to continue their education. The partnership will continue to work with the school and others to provide bursaries for further and higher education where possible. My personal thanks must go to the Principal, Mr Siyabonga Ngubane and Mrs Pk Zondi for their vision and commitment to both their young people and the partnership; their leadership is changing the lives of so many young people through the power of education, sport and partnership. Massive congratulations to all at Mnyakanya!””
Mnyakanya School in Nkandla achieves highest matric results ever [ZULULAND OBSERVER]
Bambisanani Partnership Awards bring hope and inspiration at Mnyakanya School
Mnyakanya High School in rural KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa recently held a special celebration event to present the annual Bambisanani Partnership Awards to seven remarkable students.
Mnyakanya High School in rural KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa recently held a special celebration event to present the annual Bambisanani Partnership Awards to seven remarkable students.
From left to right: Nhloso Mzolo, Samkelisiwe Nlagwaza, Hlakaniphani Ndlovu, Unathi Mbulu, Nhlakanipho Mkhize, Silindile Mzolo, Lindokuhle Nala
Mrs Pk Zondi, Bambisanani Co-ordinator at the school highlighted the importance of the awards, “The Bambisanani Awards continue to bring smiles and hope to the Mnyakanya community. During 2021, Mnyakanya students learnt under very difficult and tense conditions, where sports events and other extracurricular activities had many limitations. The 2021 Bambisanani Awards winners could not believe it when they were informed that the school was arranging a big event in which they would be recognised for being outstanding for what they are doing. These awards are really a great motivation to Mnyakanya students and youth in the community. The awards make the recipients feel famous and honoured. We do not have enough words to say how much we appreciate these awards. On behalf of the school and local community I would like to thank everyone who contributed to this brilliant idea that continues to have such an impact.”
2021 Bambisanani Partnership Award winners are as follows:
Sibonelo Magwaza Outstanding Leadership Award: Nhloso Mzolo
Sportswoman of the Year Award: Samkelisiwe Nlagwaza
Laurie McCauley Most Improved Footballer Award: Hlakaniphani Ndlovu
Laurie McCauley Creative Writing Award: Unathi Mbulu
Sportsman of the Year: Nhlakanipho Mkhize
John Paul II Foundation for Sport Helping Others Achieve their Potential Award: Silindile Mzolo
John Paul II Foundation for Sport True Spirit of Sport Award: Lindokuhle Nala
The proud winners of the awards were clearly delighted with their success:
Sibonelo Magwaza Outstanding Leadership Award Winner, Nhloso Mzolo
“I would like to take this opportunity to thank my educators and fellow students for trusting me to be a leader. When I was elected as the chairperson of the Representative Council of Learners, I knew that it said something about my leadership qualities but I never expected any award for my work. To be nominated and receive the “Sibonelo Magwaza Leadership Award has put me in a spotlight. I feel very proud of myself. I feel like everyone at school is respecting me. I do not hesitate that I will be a good leader, even in the future. I would like to thank all who made this happen and pay my respects to Sibonelo.”
Sportswoman of the Year Award Winner, Samkelisiwe Nlagwaza
“I feel very honoured today that I am nominated and acknowledged as a "Sportswoman of the Year" in 2021. This special Bambisanani Award makes me feel confident and motivates me further in my sports activities. I like athletics and am excelling in it. I hope that I will be a well-known athlete in future. Thank you very much for recognising my talent.”
Laurie McCauley Most Improved Footballer Award: Hlakaniphani Ndlovu
“I really don't know what to say! My happiness is more than the words. I really feel as a star in the whole school and in my community. To be recognised as "The Most Improved Footballer" of the year 2021 gives me hope that one day my dream to be a famous soccer player will come true. I like soccer and I am so happy that my talent is recognised through this special award in memory of Laurie McCauley.”
Laurie McCauley Creative Writing Award: Unathi Mbulu
“I am very grateful to receive the ‘Laurie McCauley Creative Writing Award’ for 2021. This award makes me feel special at school. It makes me dream more about my future in creative writing. I also hope that all my dreams will lead me to be a better person in future. I would like to thank all the Bambisanani Team and teachers for making my talent known. I feel famous!”
Sportsman of the Year: Nhlakanipho Mkhize
“I can't believe that 2021 "Sportsman of the Year Award" comes to me. I am short of words to say thank you to everyone involved. I really like sports and always like to go with a winning attitude. I am happy that this award will make my team and my parents to be proud of me. My team mates will be very motivated. Thank you very much to all the Bambisanani Team.”
John Paul II Foundation for Sport Helping Others Achieve their Potential Award: Silindile Mzolo
“I feel very honoured to be nominated and awarded with John Paul II Foundation for Sport " Helping Others Achieve their Potential Award" This means a lot to me. I was not aware that my work is meaningful to anyone. All I did was to try to help others as part of uplifting their potential. I dream of nothing but to help learners who are struggling with their school work. I expect nothing in return. I don’t help for any compensation. For me it is very painful to see someone not achieving while there was something I could do to assist. Getting this award is opening my eyes and makes me feel proud and encouraged to do more. I wish to pass my massive thanks to the Bambisanani team.”
John Paul II Foundation for Sport True Spirit of Sport Award: Lindokuhle Nala
“I am only in Grade 8 i.e my first year at Mnyakanya.
I was very surprised to be nominated and awarded with the ‘True Spirit of Sport Award’. I am very happy that my coach and my teachers have realised my talent so quickly. This award is giving me hope for a brighter future in sports. I am highly motivated to do my very best.”
David Geldart from the partnership was full of praise for the award winners:
“Massive congratulations are due to these magnificent seven students who have achieved so much in the most difficult of circumstances of 2021. They are wonderful role models to others I know that they all have the ability and determination to go further; we will watch with interest! At this time, we especially remember Laurie and Sibonelo and their very special legacy awards that continue to inspire and motivate; we know how important these awards are to their families who take great interest in hearing about the award winners every year. I would also like to take this opportunity to pay tribute to the educators at Mnyakanya who have recognised and nurtured the talent outlined above. Special thanks also to Father Vlad and the John Paul II Foundation for Sport for helping us establish these awards. The importance of recognising and rewarding such achievements cannot be overstated. These very special awards continue to shine a light on exceptional young people at Mnyakanya and long may that continue!”
The Bambisanani Awards Ceremony at Mnyakana High School
Silindile Mzolo wearing a St. Mary’s scarf to represent St. Mary’s at the event