Curro Thatchfield. It is a priviledge for Schools That Rock to ask a few questions to Larona Serekwa, SRC Vice President 2022, from Curro Thatchfield High School in Centurion, Gauteng.
Larona, how do you see your role as head leader of Curro Thatchfield High School?
I view being one of the leaders of Curro Thatchfield as an opportunity and not a privilege. An opportunity to be given a platform to collaborate with my peers, teachers and school management in order to create a shared vision. This vision focuses on creating a school environment aimed at the holistic development of every learner. As vice president of the SRC, I recognise that I have been entrusted with the responsibility of representing the interests of the school with honesty and enthusiasm. This is a goal I plan on accomplishing with sincerity and determination so that I do justice to this esteemed title.
Do you think the measures taken by the government in respect of Covid-19 for schools are justified?
I fully endorse the initial and immediate response by the government to COVID-19 when they decided to close schools. COVID-19 created a sense of global panic and unrest. The decision to close schools was a great step towards protecting the population. However, I believe my fellow less-fortunate peers were disadvantaged in the sense that they were not given the necessary tools to continue learning during the lockdown in comparison to more privileged students, myself included. The lack of resources had devastating effects such as an increased school dropout rate. More should have been done to allow these students to continue learning. I believe that the government should be held accountable for the role that they played in leading to the academic demise of many of these disadvantaged learners.
Who do you look to for inspiration and mentorship?
I find inspiration in Diana, Princess of Wales, through her various work as a humanitarian. She used her platform as a member of the royal family to devote her life to helping others. Her selflessness and determination to give a voice to the voiceless are some of the reasons why I hold the importance of giving back so close to my heart. Even though she experienced adversity throughout her life, she still managed to spread joy and instil a sense of hope in the hearts of people across the globe. Her legacy of leading with love and kindness is a legacy I hope to leave as vice president of the Curro Thatchfield SRC.
Which field of study do you intend pursuing after school?
I plan on pursuing a career as an oral and maxillofacial dental surgeon.
Do you think that South African schools offer you sufficient opportunities for the field of study you intend to pursue? Why?
Yes, South Africa is home to one of the best dental schools in Africa. They do not only equip students with the fundamental knowledge and skillset to excel. They also provide them with comprehensive real life exposure to various scenarios within the career. I believe this is a great step towards leading them to becoming successful dentists one day.
Do you think participation in sport should be made compulsory in schools?
No, I believe that learners should be given the freedom to make that decision for themselves. However, participation in sport should be strongly encouraged by learners and teachers. I didn’t participate in much sport throughout my school career, although I have personally witnessed the positive impact that playing sport has had on my peers. Participation in sport is a great way of establishing a unified environment at school. Sharing a common goal teaches learners teamwork and communication skills. Schools should aim for the holistic development of each learner which includes their physical, emotional and academic development. Unfortunately, many schools prioritise academic development while neglecting the physical needs of the learners. Encouraging learners to participate in sports allows them to perform at their best.
What did you enjoy most during your school career?
My school career has been a rollercoaster of emotions and memories. It was an experience that I wouldn’t trade for anything else in the world. Being exposed to a diverse group of people has enabled me to develop lifelong friendships. It also enabled me to be able to fully express myself artistically through art and poetry. Being a part of a school that values the importance of giving back to the less fortunate has given me a sense of purpose and fulfilment. I will carry it with me into my adult life.
Are you 100% sure of the field of study you contemplate pursuing after school? Please explain your answer.
To be frank, deciding on which career to pursue after school was a long and strenuous journey. I have a wide range of interests ranging from environmental studies to tackling humanitarian issues. However, I’ve always been fascinated by teeth and the study behind them and my nurturing nature and willingness to help people truly led me to a career in dentistry. It is a career that I’m beyond excited to pursue.
Which University will you attend ?
The University of the Western Cape (UWC).
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Read more on Curro Thatchfield:
https://www.curro.co.za/schools/curro-thatchfield-high-school/