Sporting prowess can earn children bursaries, says Ruele
Thomas Taole of Afrika Tikkun said the biggest challenge facing Alex Youth Swim Academy in getting the township’s children to the water was the lack of parental support for the program.
Taole spoke in an interview with Alex News during a presentation on the progress of Lawrence Ruele’s Academy. The academy teaches swimming skills to Alexandra’s children at King David High School Linksfield.
Taole said the children are taken to the venue every weekend and the academy has seen a high rate of absenteeism, which doesn’t bode well for the program.
“We need more support from parents in coming to the venue to see their children take their steps towards becoming champion swimmers. If for some reason the parents cannot come to the venue with their children, they must ensure that the children always come to class and do not miss a weekend,” he said.
Taole said the swimming program is very important for the children as it teaches them survival skills in the harsh weather patterns that wreak havoc around the world.
His view was shared by Dikeledi Meso, one of the few parents who attended the March 19 event, who urged parents to take an active role in the programs and sports their children participate in.
“I wish that more and more parents would come to swimming lessons to see their children’s progress and encourage them. Our kids need encouragement when they’re doing good and encouragement when they’re not so perfect,” Meso added.
Speaking of encouraging parents to enroll their children in the program, Ruele pointed out that learners could receive scholarships from other schools based on their athletic ability.
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