By Phuti Semenya
The University of Limpopo’s Rural Development and Innovation Hub hosted its annual Certificate Ceremony at Bolivia Lodge, celebrating students who spent the year uplifting learners in nearby underserved communities. The room buzzed with pride as volunteers, lecturers, and partners gathered to honour young people who chose service over convenience.
“Today is about recognizing students who chose leadership and community,” said Lucky Moamba during the opening, setting a tone of gratitude and reflection.
The programme places UL students in rural schools, where they support learners with reading, writing, comprehension, science activities, and even basic computer literacy. Beyond assisting schools, the initiative helps students gain confidence, patience, teamwork, and a deeper sense of purpose through community engagement.
Ramohlola Herold. Photo by: Dimpho Boshomane
One of the event’s main speakers, Ramohlola Herold, illustrated the volunteer journey through the fictional character “Alex” a symbol of every student who stepped into a rural classroom. Through Alex’s eyes, guests were reminded how volunteers learned to simplify science, use hands-on demonstrations, and communicate with empathy.
“Science becomes powerful when people can understand it,” Herold said, highlighting the transformative role students played in helping learners grasp complex concepts in relatable ways.
Elelwani Netshituni from BankSETA. Photo by: Dimpho Boshomane
Elelwani Netshituni from BankSETA, a partner of the programme, emphasized the organisation’s commitment to supporting disadvantaged students. She explained how BankSETA bursaries fund tuition, materials, and even historic student debt.
“No student should be left behind because of money,” she said. “If you have the passion to learn, we are here to support you.”
Certificate holder Thabitha Mnisi. Photo by: Dimpho Boshomane
Among the standout volunteers was Thabitha Mnisi, recognized for her dedication across several programmes, including Digital Fluency, Farm Profiling, and Reading with Comprehension. She was named Overall Best Student Volunteer in the Farm Profiling Programme.
Thabitha said the experience helped her grow academically and personally, strengthening her communication and nurturing her passion for teaching. She advices future volunteers, “Stay committed, manage your time, ask questions, and believe in yourself. Every skill you learn now will shape your future.”
Chauke Lodric with remarkable consistency. Photo by: Dimpho Boshomane
Another highlight of the evening was Chauke Lodric, celebrated for his remarkable consistency, visiting participating schools 22 times without missing a single day a testament to commitment and reliability.
Students dancing and rejoicing. Photo by: Dimpho Boshomane
Reflecting on the programme, volunteer Tshegofatso Molawa described the experience as both challenging and rewarding. “Working with primary school learners was difficult at times, but I learned so much. I would encourage other students to join programmes like this,” he said.
Mapula Maputla shared a similar sentiment, noting that being part of the Rural Development and Innovation Hub helped shape her passion for community development. “It challenged me, but it was incredibly beneficial. I grew both professionally and personally, strengthened my communication skills, and gained a better understanding of how to work with real communities to bring about meaningful change.”
For many volunteers, the experience reshaped how they view education, leadership, and themselves. For the learners they supported, it opened doors to new skills, possibilities, and hope that will extend far beyond this year. More than an award ceremony, the evening honoured the spirit of community, the impact of student leadership, and the promise of a brighter future for rural learners.
