No-Stone, an NGO based in the village of Kalbaskraal, understands the myriad challenges faced by our recent matriculants, as they transition to life after high school. Most of these challenges are systemic and arise from intergenerational narratives of poverty.
After being approached with Mr. Frederick Henry Haas, whom No-Stone will partner on certain projects, we agreed that this is a very worthwhile and critical project to embark on.
This is why we are committed to providing support, guidance and assistance to those students, who despite their personal challenges combined with being at an under-resourced school during 2 years of academic disruption due to the Covid pandemic, attained their matriculation certificates. We intend to do this in the following ways:
- Mentorship: To assist these students to navigate the challenges they may face and work towards more informed and positive life decisions, with more confidence and awareness about their future.
- Job placement: We connect students with job opportunities to gain valuable experience and start building their careers.
- Access to resources: We facilitate access to resources such as internet, computers, books and other educational material to help students access online education, training and possibly work opportunities.
- Community development: We support community development programs focused on improving healthcare, infrastructure, and providing supplementary education or developmental training and job opportunities to improve the overall living conditions in the area and create a better future for everyone.
- Volunteering: We encourage volunteering opportunities for students and members of the community to gain experience, confidence and self respect and be part of one solution for their community issues.
It is important that these services are not a free pass for everyone. They are intended for matriculants who are facing significant challenges and have limited resources.
When assessing each case, we consider the following criteria:
- Financial need: Factors such as poverty, unemployment, being an active job seeker and lack of access to resources are taken into account
- Academic performance: We consider not only grades, but attendance and test score evaluations.
- Future goals and aspirations: This includes factors such as the student’s plans for further education or career opportunities, goals and ambitions
- Personal and family circumstances: such as disability, health issues, and responsibilities at home.
- Community involvement: Volunteer work and involvement in community organisations.
It is important that we use a holistic approach when assessing each case, taking into account multiple factors instead of relying on narrow criterion. We also ensure that the assessment is impartial, informed and equitable to avoid any discrimination or bias.
Furthermore, we consult with other members of our organisation and community leaders to get a broader perspective on each case before making a decision on the kind of support to provide.
We believe that by providing support and assistance to those in need, we can help matriculants in our community to overcome the barriers they may face and pave the way for a brighter future.
We would need you to email the following information to mark@no-stone.org
Personal identification and contact information
Proof of matriculation and School
Academic results
Personal statement, Please provide a personal statement outlining your current situation, challenges and future goals and aspirations.
Community involvement: Have you volunteered or help in the community at all, if so, what have you done and whom can we talk to.
