The weekend was indeed reserved for education and youth, especially Matrics. Matric Outreach Programme (MOP) delivered programmes beyond expectations.Cookhouse Matric Farewell
We kicked off the Friday (14th) with a Glamorous Cookhouse High Matric Farewell. The excitement and pride the community displayed as we convoyed through the streets of Bongweni to pick up the learners was touching and got me in tears. As for the learners, Wow! They were stunning and made sure they go all out for their evening. They presented themselves as Stars. Indeed they felt like any other Grade 12 learner and also had their moment.
The occassion was graced by the District Education, BCRM (Mayor and Cncllr Funiselo) and the Key note address was by George Meko (Trustee for CSCDF). Must say the staff turn-up was not as expected and leaves much to be desired.
Pre-exam Prayer and Career Expo
The Sunday (16th) was a day to remember for the calender year 2011. Its preparation was escalated by the interview by DR Bayeni with Maka Ma-Asi on Umhlobo Wenene.
SAPS, Health and NYDA were represented and had an opportunity to share with learners, and community on the career opportunities available. The message from government was clear that no learner should use financial/social circumstances as excuse for not enrolling or furthering their studies. WSU, NMMU, and Rhodes University sent brochures and application forms which were distributed to the learners.
The occassion was graced by Blue Crane Ministers' Fraternal, BCRM (Mayor and Cncllr Mali), Churches with District Education Director forwarding a message of support through Mr. G Roxo. Churches, NGO and ANC also delivered messages of support and encouraged the learners.
Key note address was delivered by Mr. Sipho Lunyawo, Chief of staff, Office of the Premier who sacrificed his time and spent his birthday with the community of Blue Crane. As a previous teacher himself, he made sure his address was practical, relevant, and tangible with demonstrations. He encouraged the learners to refrain from social activities prematurely e.g. alcohol, smoking, and sex. Lastly he assured the learners and the community that the office of the Premier always strives to ensure that all learners that are assisted to be  at school including, financial assistance.
All Blue Crane High Schools except for Gill College responded to the call. The Mayor and Rev. Jean Underwood handed out candles to the four schools, as a symbol of hope and light.
Acknowledgements
Matric Outreach Programme would like thank, firstly the churches, the community and the schools for making the two programmes a success.
Furthermore we would like to thank the following institutions for their financial support and availing resources: - NYDA - Youth Zones - BCRM - DoE (MEC's Office) - Dr. Bayeni - Blue Crane Hospice
Lastly let us all rally behind our learners, not only Matric, and support them during their exams. We also want to invite people who are interested to know more and join the Matric Outreach Programme to contact us.
Yours for youth, through education and skills development.
Ms. Thulisa Mpumlo and Mr. Xolani Brander (MOP Members)