There are different historical points of departure for education globally and especially the schooling system. The community has had a major role in the history of education starting with teaching young people how to look after their families, the land and livestock. Over the centuries, education has changed from being passed down generationally to having a structured format. However, the community still plays a pivotal role in shaping how young minds are educated. It is against this backdrop that this institution called Phakamani Young Minds Academy was founded and 5 years on, it still continues to be a pillar of hope within the community of Freedom Park.

The “Young Minds” who successfully passed their Grade 12 and getting ready for the big world out there, should do so boldly knowing that PYMA laid a very good foundation for them. “Young Minds” must also remember that the world out there needs thinkers, pioneers and creatives more than workers. Workers are being replaced by artificial intelligence and robotics. Fortunately for the “Young Minds”, they have witnessed first-hand, through our After School Programme, the value of being a thinker, pioneer and creative. Go out there and apply yourselves to be even greater Minds in future.

Sibusiso Zungu, Board Chairperson of PYMA