Khula Learning Centre in Bredasdorp

The Executive Mayor Cllr. Paul Swart and Municipal Manager Mr. Eben Phillips paid a visit to Khula Learning Centre in Bredasdorp. They were welcomed by the two friendly co-founders Hilde Reeders and Jeanine Botha.  The purpose of the visit was to congratulate them on advancing to the second round of the Äänit Prize for social entrepreneurship where up to $80,000 in funding is available between one and four winners. 

The Äänit Prize supports initiatives that can deliver positive social impact for Africa’s most marginalised populations. The competition is open to alumni of the Mandela Rhodes- and the Rhodes Scholarship. In 2018, the director and co-founder of Khula Learning Centre, Jeanine Botha was awarded the Mandela Rhodes Scholarship.

The Municipal Manager and Mayor wanted to know what Khula means.  Jeanine explained that it is an IsiXhosa word meaning to grow or to increase. The verb describes it so beautifully: the ongoing process of developing in order to achieve one’s fullest potential.

At Khula, they provide educational support services to homeschool learners, using IMPAQ’s products and services. IMPAQ is a CAPS-based curriculum that provides an academic framework which allows each learner to work at his or her own pace. This is especially effective for learners who require more intensive academic support. This learning centre makes provision for all learners, also those who experience barriers to learning. 

The Äänit Prize seek businesses or non-profit projects that will deliver social impact, that are feasible and sustainable prospects, and which are run by people with the capability to succeed.  Äänit means “common work” or “joint effort” in the language Koalib, a minority language spoken in Sudan. 

Mayor Paul Swart wished them all of the best with competition on behalf of the municipality and residents of Cape Agulhas.

Information and photo by Gurswin Prins, CAM Communication

Image: Left to right - Municipal Manager Eben Phillips, Jeanine Botha, Hilde Reeders, Mayor Paul Swart with some of the learners.