Online Reporter
Gabriel Manyeruke
THE school term has officially begun following the April holiday and learners are back in their classrooms, refreshed and ready to learn.
As the buzz of activity returns to school halls, it is important to take a moment to recognise those who make this return possible: the parents and guardians who work tirelessly behind the scenes.
Silent heroes
Many parents spent their holidays not resting but preparing for the second term. They ensured school fees were paid on time, bought new winter uniforms and secured books and stationery so that their children could resume learning without delay.
These efforts, often unnoticed, reflect an incredible commitment to their children’s education and well-being.
Struggles that go unseen
For most parents and guardians, providing for school needs is not always easy. Economic challenges, rising living costs and limited job opportunities make it difficult to cover school expenses.
Some parents have had to apply for payment plans just to ensure their children could return to school on the first day.
Their sacrifices demonstrate deep love, resilience and an unshakable belief in the power of education.
Give back through effort
With such effort invested in their future, learners are now encouraged to honour their parents’ commitment by taking school seriously.
The best way for learners to thank their parents is through academic excellence. Instead of letting the term slip by, they should work hard, stay focused and aim to achieve results that will make their families proud.
The cold should not freeze your ambition
As winter sets in, chilly weather can become an obstacle. However, learners are urged not to allow the cold to interfere with their studies.
Warm clothes, active engagement and mental discipline will be key to overcoming the distractions that often come with the cold season.
Now is the time to show grit and resilience, not to relax.
Setting goals for a successful term
Goal setting is a powerful tool for academic success.
Learners are encouraged to set specific goals in each subject, be it improving reading, solving more maths problems or mastering science experiments.
Progress should be tracked weekly and learners should seek help when they encounter difficulties. By taking charge of their own learning, they can unlock their full potential.
Responsibility starts with the learner
While teachers provide guidance and classmates offer support, the learner is at the centre of their own academic journey. Their attitude, dedication and consistency will ultimately shape their success.
This term, learners are reminded to stay away from distractions, like excessive screen time or unproductive habits, and instead focus on their personal growth and development.
Honouring sacrifice with success
Parents and guardians do not ask for much in return for their sacrifices.
All they hope for is to see their children succeed.
Some skip meals, work extra hours or walk long distances to ensure their children have the best education possible.
Learners must reflect on these silent acts of love and use them as motivation to push harder, dream bigger and never give up.
A vision of pride and achievement
Imagine the pride on a parent’s face when they hear their child’s name called for academic excellence.
The joy, the relief and the sense of fulfilment are rewards worth striving for. With discipline, focus and effort, every learner has the power to bring that vision to
life.
Write a new chapter this term
Each school term is a new chapter in the education journey. The second term is another chance to grow, improve and shine academically.
Learners are encouraged to take this chance seriously, rise to the occasion and show gratitude through action.
Let this term be the one where hard work meets achievement, where learners make their parents proud, their teachers inspired and their future bright.
Gabriel Manyeruke is an author and educator at Wise Owl High School in Marondera. Contact details: 0774122288, [email protected]
Online Reporter