BY PHESHEYA IAN KUNENE
MBABANE – Giving back with purpose — that was the mission for St Mark’s A-Level students last Thursday as they stepped out to serve their communities.
The learners embarked on a day-long outreach programme, beginning with a visit to Enhlitweni High School in Maguga, where they donated used textbooks collected by fellow St Mark’s students.
The initiative aimed to promote academic support and foster solidarity among schools. The A-Level learners also took time to engage with the Form 5 pupils, offering words of encouragement and motivation as they prepared for their final examinations.
When contacted by the Eswatini Positive News desk, the school principal, Khanyisile Shabangu confirmed the outreach and expressed pride in the learners’ initiative.
“As a school, we believe in nurturing not only academic excellence but also compassion and leadership. We are proud of our students for stepping out and making a meaningful impact,” Shabangu said.
One of the participating students described the experience as fulfilling. “It felt good to know that even something as small as a used textbook can make a big difference in someone else’s life. We left feeling inspired,” she said.
Another student added, “Visiting the orphanage reminded us not to take what we have for granted. It was an emotional experience, and it made us appreciate our families more deeply.”
The second stop of the outreach was at Rise and Rebuild Orphanage in Mpolonjeni, Mbabane, where the learners donated food items to support the home’s daily needs. The orphanage currently houses 17 children, and staff members expressed heartfelt gratitude for the donation.
“We are truly grateful for the generosity shown by the students,” said one of the caregivers. “It’s comforting to know that the youth of today are growing with such kind hearts.”
A teenage resident of the orphanage also shared their appreciation, saying, “We felt seen and loved. It’s nice to know there are people out there who care about us.”
Teachers and coordinators who accompanied the learners applauded their efforts, describing the initiative as a successful blend of service, empathy, and learning. They noted that community engagements of this nature are essential in developing well-rounded, socially conscious citizens.
The school has since indicated that it plans to continue nurturing a culture of service, with similar outreach programmes expected to follow in the coming months.
