By Keren Banza
The Nine Tenths Mentoring Programme pairs matric students from local public schools with
Rhodes University student volunteers, aims to equip the students with the skills and
the knowledge they need to cope with their final year of high school, to reach their full potential
and pave a path towards their future.
Last week, Nine Tenths held a celebratory event to honour the mentees and mentors who
participated in the programme last year. Nine Tenths is geared towards supporting matric
learners at Ntsika, Nombulelo, Mary Waters and Khutliso Daniels Secondary Schools and
has once again proven to be a tremendous success.
The event was an evening of gratitude and celebration, bringing together coordinators from
various organizations, schools, mentors, donors, top-achieving mentees and their parents.
Many shared their stories about how the programme has impacted their lives and education in
Makhanda.
Among the matric students who were part of the programme last year, 44 were accepted as
full-time students at Rhodes University, 22 as occasional students in a Rhodes bridging
programme, and 8 in other tertiary institutions. The top three performing schools were
no-fee paying, Khutliso Daniels and Nombulelo. Makhanda also achieved its highest-ever
public school pass rate of 85%, making it the highest-performing city in the province for the
third consecutive year.
The success and influence of Nine Tenths are a testament to the dedication and hard work of
all those who make it possible. The programme’s name is inspired by a quote from the Nobel
Prize winner Anatole France: “Nine tenths of education is encouragement.” Nine Tenths is a
shining example of how encouragement and support can make all the difference in students’ lives. Congratulations to all involved in the Nine Tenths Mentoring Programme for
another successful year.
