When the Bakubung Economic Development Unit (BEDU) invited me to visit the Ledig community once again, memories of my last trip flooded back, bringing with them a sense of warmth, wonder and curious anticipation.
Warmth toward the teachers and learners of the Ledig schools I last visited. Wonder at the changes that BEDU had introduced in the community. Curious anticipation of what more I would witness during this second visit 10 months later.
So, on a cold winter’s morning, Flow writer Miliswa Sitshwele and I left the traffic and stresses of Sandton and joined other BEDU guests on a long drive to the district of Ledig in the North West Province, where our host, BEDU’s Executive Director Kitty Scott, was waiting for us.
Ledig is a small rural community of 30 000 people situated in the shadow of the famous Sun City, a mere three kilometres away. Passing the resort’s grand entrance, you begin to imagine what lies beyond … hotels, casinos, bright lights, a beach and, yes, even a palace.
However, when entering Ledig, there was no evidence of opulence or even the simple comforts that are commonplace in the neighbouring “city”. That day, though, we were to be shown just how much has changed in the community and what plans BEDU had to improve the lives of the “people of the hippo”.
Upon arrival we were greeted by the chief of the Bakubung nation, Kgosi Ezekiel Monnakgotla, who then handed us over to our host. We were driven to a nearby school hall where Kitty gave us a short presentation on the progress her unit has made with regard to education, infrastructure, sports development and health care. Driving to the hall, I could already see that new walls had been built, land had been cleared of rubble and classrooms had been upgraded. I smiled all the way.
Kitty’s presentation was just the beginning of what turned out to be a day of sweet surprises. We were also shown a newly kitted mathematics laboratory, where tuition is provided to learners after school and on weekends. Classes are presented by Rose Pahle, a retired mathematician.
At a neighbouring school we interrupted an iSchoolAfrica class that was in session. BEDU has invested in mobile computer labs for each school, introducing them to the schools with the aid of an iSchoolAfrica facilitator. The computers are not used to teach learners computer skills, but rather to integrate curriculum and digital technology with the use of Apple tools.
“There is no discussion when it comes to technology,” said Kitty, “Only the best is good enough for our learners.”
After several other site visits, including trips to sporting facilities and an inspection of the local mobile clinic, BEDU received high praise from government representatives, who pledged their support to the unit and the community.
The Bakubung chief accompanied us throughout the day, standing proudly and happily posing for photographs. He joined us for a simple traditional lunch prepared by the community, where he reiterated BEDU’s requests for more participation from government and other service providers.
BEDU’s commitment to the community, together with the support of the chief, traditional council and local government will ensure that Ledig will grow into a modern town, creating opportunities for its people and producing future leaders.