The hall at the NG Kerk in Witpoortjie was filled with excitement and expectation as the students who had completed their computer course waited for the graduation ceremony to begin.
Santie Theron, the founder of Gratia Plena Academy, explained. “Today is all about the students who have completed their one-year computer literacy course. The graduation ceremony is to acknowledge their achievements, and reward them for their hard work. All of those here today achieved a mark of 85 per cent or higher. This is exceptional, as we had quite a few difficulties to overcome throughout the year.”
She added that the top four students – Nomvula Mabaso, Dawn Hemming, Handsome Nkabini and Lelanie Scott – all achieved a mark of 90 per cent or higher, and Nomvula was the top achiever with a mark of 98 percent.
“We also had a nine-year-old, Rethabile Mogale, who successfully completed the adult examination,” said a very proud Santie.
The morning’s activities were started with an inspiring opening message from Reverend Yolandi Kok, and followed by a heart warming performance of a poem by four of the younger students of the Academy.
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She added that they do not only focus on computer skills, and said, “We try to prepare all the students for the workplace. That is why we also teach them some interviewing skills.”
The academy is a registered non-profit organisation (NPO), with the mission to empower students and help people to help themselves, that is why the courses are being offered for free.
“But, without donations, we will not be able to keep our doors open and continue to offer these classes to the community,” said Santie.
She added that they are planning to add a few more courses for next year, which will include English, home-schooling, and after-care classes and Alpha courses.
The Academy hosts classes from Monday to Saturday from 9am to 1pm.
For more information, contact Santie on 081 443 4908 or send an email to santie77@outlook.co.za.
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