Makhuvha, Vhembe District – In a heartwarming gesture of recognition and support, the OpaL Students Foundation, spearheaded by Mrs. Universe Africa- Public Choice Patricia Tshitema, rewarded top-performing students from three local schools and extended a helping hand to the less privileged at Makhuvha Drop-in Centre on Wednesday, 12th June 2024.
The awards ceremony, hosted at Tshivhase Secondary School, was a celebration of academic excellence and community support. The event acknowledged the achievements of outstanding students from Makhuvha Primary School, Muhuyuwathomba Secondary School, and Tshivhase Secondary School.
Maranzhe Ankonisaho, a current student at Tshivhase Secondary School and top performer at Makhuvha Primary School in 2023, received a full school uniform and a new laptop. Oswika Munakisi Mukoma, now studying at the University of Cape Town, was awarded a new laptop for her exceptional performance at Tshivhase Secondary in 2023. Sikhala Rofhulufhela, currently at Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University, also received a new laptop for being the top student at Muhuyuwathomba Secondary School in 2023. The ceremony was a significant event, featuring several distinguished speakers and guests. Mrs. Sarah Tshisikule directed the program, with a warm welcome and outline of the day’s purpose given by Tshivhase Secondary School Principal Mr. F. Maselesele. Mother TC Daswa introduced the guests, setting the stage for the keynote speech by Mrs. Patricia Tshitema, founder and director of the Opal Students Foundation. Mrs. Tshitema’s address highlighted the foundation’s commitment to fostering education and supporting the youth. Pastor NR Nemukula delivered a sermon and blessed the gifts, while municipality representatives provided inspiring words of encouragement.
Following the awards ceremony, the foundation’s outreach continued at Makhuvha Drop-in Centre. Here, they met with the mothers of children benefiting from the centre, the Makhuvha Drop-in Centre team, and the broader community. The Opal Students Foundation donated groceries and essential items, encouraging both the children and the community. To further support local businesses, the day concluded with a lunch at a nearby restaurant. Mrs. Patricia Tshitema expressed her gratitude and pride in the students’ achievements and reaffirmed the foundation’s mission. “Our goal is to uplift and empower the youth through education and community support. Today’s event is a testament to the incredible potential within our community,” she said. The success of the event marks another milestone for the Opal Students Foundation, showcasing their dedication to making a tangible difference in the lives of young scholars and their communities.
