We Want to Play!

Recently, the Nelson Mandela Institute was deep and entrenched in the iLima Lokufunda programme aimed at initiating and co-coordinating the process of refurbishing the schools involved in the project, sourcing the materials and personnel required. This programme also builds working relationships between schools and the communities they serve. This time around we were in Bizana, working at Khumbuza Junior Secondary School. It was a fulfilling exercise. We were building a playground (jungle gyms, sandpits, swings and more!), the basic idea being that school must inspire learners to explore around life knowledge through a playful environment. This in turn becomes a powerful tool of teaching and learning.

The most interesting experience and eye opener by far, which seems to be a testimony from the learners about the effect of the playground environment in their school experience, is the manner in which the learners engage and access school and the playground. One of the community members we were working with noted that, “Abantwana, oko kwakhiwa abajingi baya esikolweni ngokungxama ekuseni, kwaye babuya kade esikolweni sakuphuma. Badlala kawaba jingi (These kids, ever since the erection of these swings, leave home early and in a rush for school and also come back later than normal. They are playing at school).” Also, a report from the principal was that learners were sneaking through the fence during weekend to access the school. Why? They want to play! Learners have clearly begun to see the school environment as a playful and enjoyable place. They are even breaking rules (sneaking through fence, going to school on a non- school day). Now, it would be great then if educators and leaner’s alike linked the curriculum learnt at school to the playful environment; the schooling experience would be fruitful and organic.

Parents and community members also seemed to enjoy the playground, one parent stated: “Nam mandike ndive lento yenza abantwana bangafuni ukubuya esikolweni (Let me also experience what keeps the kids at school even after school hours.”) It was a truly wonderful time.