1 T T Targeting argeting argeting argeting argeting T T Talent alent alent alent alent Programme Programme Programme Programme Programme 2011 2011 2011 2011 2011 Maths and Science and Science and Science and Science and Science Enrichment Enrichment Enrichment Enrichment Enrichment Programme Programme Programme Programme Programme Hip Hip Hip Hip Hip Hop Hop Hop Hop Hop TTP TP TP TP TP Regional Regional Regional Regional Regional Family amily amily amily amily Workshops orkshops orkshops orkshops orkshops Our Our Our Our Our RAs RAs RAs RAs RAs
ContentContentContentContentContentDirector's Letter
Maths and Science Enrichment Programme
Opening Ceremony
Our Residential Assistants
Poems
Thank You
Home Away From Home
The Final Countdown
TTP Regional Family Workshops
Hip Hop
Res Life
Hello Diary
Closing Dinner
EditorialTeam
Editor Zena Richards
Sub Editors Jennifer KoenMegan ReevesLandi Mashiloane
Communications Prince Eno BasseyConsultant
Digital Media/Creative Ukpong Ed�’ UkpongDesign Consultant
Photography KokoMedia
IT & Design Support iGate Technologies
3
Six years of being in existence and
the Targeting Talent Programme
(TTP) can only be described by the
words uttered by Itzhak Perlman: �”The
mind is not a vessel to be filled, but a fire
to be ignited�”.
The TTP learners selected over the
years have engaged in this learning
process with dedication, commitment
and perseverance. As a result Targeting
Talent is growing from strength to
strength and has increased its donor
base. In July 2011, Wits University
Director�’sLetter
He who learns butdoes not think is lost.Chinese proverb.�“�“
ZenaRichardsDirector: Student Equity andTalent Management Unit
hosted 612 high potential learners on
campus. This was the first in the history
of the Targeting Talent programme that
grade 10, 11 and 12 cohort were hosted
simultaneously. It was also the year that
the programme recruited learners from
all nine provinces. It was amazing to
bear witness to how all the learners had
the courage to travel long distances
from home; engage with challenging
material and activities and expand their
social networks to nine provinces. We
are proud to have you part of the talent
pool development programme. Wishing
the current Grade 12 learners all the best
in their final exams. See all next year!
4
Targeting TalentLearners duringa session
2011
5
Schools attended by TTP learnersSchools attended by TTP learnersSchools attended by TTP learnersSchools attended by TTP learnersSchools attended by TTP learners
LIMPOPOLIMPOPOLIMPOPOLIMPOPOLIMPOPO Number ofNumber ofNumber ofNumber ofNumber of Number ofNumber ofNumber ofNumber ofNumber ofSchools attended by TTPSchools attended by TTPSchools attended by TTPSchools attended by TTPSchools attended by TTP MalesMalesMalesMalesMales FemalesFemalesFemalesFemalesFemalesLearnersLearnersLearnersLearnersLearners SelectedSelectedSelectedSelectedSelected SelectedSelectedSelectedSelectedSelected
Glen Cowie Secondary School 0 10
Kgoshi Moroangoato Secondary School 0 3
Bopedi Bapedi High School 0 4
Ngwanamala Secondary School 3 3
PROVINCEPROVINCEPROVINCEPROVINCEPROVINCE Grade10Grade10Grade10Grade10Grade10 Grade11Grade11Grade11Grade11Grade11 Grade12Grade12Grade12Grade12Grade12 TTTTTota lo ta lo ta lo ta lo ta l
Eastern Cape 3 3 0 6
Free State 12 11 10 33
Gauteng 23 19 4 46
KwaZulu Natal 33 26 8 67
Limpopo 27 16 35 78
Mpumalanga 11 7 6 24
North West 3 3 7 13
Northern Cape 4 4 0 8
Western Cape 9 11 5 25
125 100 75 300
4 In 2011 SETMU secured funding
from the Department ofDepartment ofDepartment ofDepartment ofDepartment of
Science and TScience and TScience and TScience and TScience and Technology (DST)echnology (DST)echnology (DST)echnology (DST)echnology (DST),
for the period 2011-2016 for two
hundred and ninety-four (294) learners
throughout South Africa to attend the
programme.
8
2012Maths and Science contactMaths and Science contactMaths and Science contactMaths and Science contactMaths and Science contacttime:time:time:time:time: 28 September �– 5 October 2012(Arrive Friday 28 September 2012 -Depart Friday 5 October 2012)(Grade 10 and 11 only)
TTP Notice BoardTTP and TDP ResidentialTTP and TDP ResidentialTTP and TDP ResidentialTTP and TDP ResidentialTTP and TDP ResidentialProgramme:Programme:Programme:Programme:Programme: 23 June - 7 July 2012(Arrive Saturday 23 June 2012 �– DepartSaturday 7 July 2012). Grade 10/11/12(final contact time for Grade 12)
Dates for TTPcontact sessions
Maths and Science contactMaths and Science contactMaths and Science contactMaths and Science contactMaths and Science contacttime:time:time:time:time: 30 March �– 5 April 2012 (ArriveFriday 30 March 2012 �– DepartThursday 5 April 2012)Grade 10/11/12
9
A Mathematics and Science Enrichment Programme washeld for Grade 11 and 12 learners from the 3rd to 8th ofApril 2011. The programme was held at the Good News
Convention Centre in Muldersdrift. The curriculum focused onMathematics and Science material. In their overall comments,the learners indicated that they had benefited from theprogramme and that the programme was well run. For example,one student felt very inspired by the sessions and stated: "Istrongly believe that the TTP can go a long way and I'm verydevoted to it because I believe in its potential to change theworld ... for the best."
Maths andScienceEnrichmentProgramme2011.
10
BongiweSiyayaThis week was an exceptional one
academically as I got to understand so
many things in Mathematics and
Science. I enjoyed socializing with my
TTP friends and getting to know the
other learners. The best part for me was
the satisfaction of finally grasping
essential concepts in mathematics and
science. I am grateful for the time the
teachers sacrificed to help us, they have
contributed immensely to shaping and
brightening our future. Their hardwork
was most definitely not in vain.
MothibaMothibaMothibaMothibaMothibaLefentseLefentseLefentseLefentseLefentseDuring the week of the 4th until the 8th of
April, 2011; it was awesome, we had a
lot of fun. The lecturers were patient with
us especially our mathematics teacher
and she was always organized. Some
of us did not have a solid foundation in
mathematics and science but now we
are able to tackle every challenge. For
me, it was really worth spending five
days of my holidays doing things that
will benefit me in the future. Mostly, I
enjoyed mathematics. I enjoyed my
stay here and I am grateful that I was
given the opportunity to be a part of this
programme: my results are proof.
MmakoenaMy experience throughout this week has
been one to remember. Yes I have had
ups and downs but through
perseverance, I conquered. I learnt a lot
to help me in my academics as well as
socially. The teachers were great and
helped me understand things I
struggled with. We got the opportunity
to sing which we all enjoyed. This
programme has really made a
difference in my life: improved my
academics, boosted my self-confidence
and enabled me to interact with different
people. I enjoyed my stay, thank you
TTP.
11
Winnie KiruiThe thing that stood out for me this
week, besides the academic aspects,
was that all groups were united, there
was no segregation. I learnt that life is
not just about academics but a
balanced life includes: social life and �‘me
time�’. I learnt that once one is relaxed
everything goes smoothly as one
develops the power within one�’s self to
balance one�’s life amongst others
things. This week was definitely
worthwhile, I feel like we covered 6
months work in just a week, I am
so happy and calm now that I
have substantial
understanding. The best
part was on the 7th of April
when all groups sang and
danced together. Thank you
to the management, I am full
of appreciation.
SetlauSetlauSetlauSetlauSetlauIrene:Irene:Irene:Irene:Irene:Well, I have learnt to be more active in
my school work, have good listening
skills and also how to adjust to different
circumstances of life. I really enjoyed
every minute of each day I spent here.
The lecturers were really kind and helpful
and I appreciated them; it was not
easy but through self-
determination, I managed to
scale through. I have learnt
to be independent and
strive to be the
legend that I
was born
to be.
TauMamotjatjiAnthoniaI really enjoyed being here and I had
lots of fun. The lecturers were humble,
patient, determined and dedicated. It
was worth being here even though I
often missed home. Thank you TTP.
12
AdelaideMadibaTTP was an enrichment indeed! In both
the mathematics and science lessons,
we were taught topics I am yet to do at
my school. I am very grateful and I
intend on sharing this knowledge with
other learners back at my school. I
enjoyed every part of being here and
the best part was the last night we spent
at TTP. After dinner, all the groups sang
and danced, singing is one of my
hobbies. It was totally worth being here.
EbrahimEbrahimEbrahimEbrahimEbrahimMayetMayetMayetMayetMayetWe were not taught what to think but
how to think critically as well as
understand. There is no reason to
complain about anything but I must
admit I was shocked that four men
shared one room; nevertheless, it made
me get to know people. In general, TTP
teaches one to be productive
irrespective of the team that one works
with. I believe that the benefits of my
time here outweighs the loss of my
holiday, it was a worthwhile experience.
NgobeniXichavoLimpiaAttending the extra lessons has been
wonderful for me. I believe that coming
here was worthwhile rather than staying
home and doing nothing. I learnt a lot of
things: I got to be very interactive with
the people that I shared my room with.
As for mathematics and science, I
enjoyed the classes. In mathematics, I
struggled with functions but now, after
the TTP, I can proudly say �‘I am on top
of it�’. The lecturers were very patient and
helpful.
Top photo:Targeting TalentProgrammeTeam Top-right photo: Left - Right
Prof. Loyiso NonxgaMr. D. Hanekom
Ms. Zena RichardsProf. Rod Moore
TargetingTalentProgrammeTeam
2011
13
OpeningCeremonyThe 2011 June TT residential programme
commenced with an opening ceremony, duringwhich the learners got to interact with their peers,educators, sponsors as well as the members of theWits Community, responsible for the facilitation of theprogramme. After a hectic day of arrivals, registrationand settling down, a tasty dinner at the WitsEducation Campus�’s Reitz Hall provided the rightatmosphere for the Learners to unwind and relax.
14
Educators�’ Residential Enrichment attendees included educators from Limpopo
Province. The educators are an integral catalyst to the success of the TT
Programme as they have the ability to replicate what we teach to more learners in
their schools. Wits University�’s Vice Chancellor and Principal, Professor Loyiso
Nonxga was the chief host of the occasion while Mr. D. Hanekom (Deputy Minister at
Department of Science and Technology), was amongst the dignitaries in attendance;
he delivered a keynote address.
There is no doubtthat any Societythat neglects to
invest in its youngpeople, any
society that doesnot go out to
identify thepotential of its
young people isdoing itself a
disservice. I hopethat this
programmeamongst other
things, will be ableto empower you to
see yourself assomeone who is
responsible foryour personaldevelopment
Prof. LoyisoProf. LoyisoProf. LoyisoProf. LoyisoProf. LoyisoNonxgaNonxgaNonxgaNonxgaNonxga
�“�“
Vice Chancellor and PrincipalUniversity of the Witswatersrand
15
This is part of yourjourney, I would like tosay that this journey, thispath that we walk is alifelong journey, it doesn�’tend. You think you are atthe top of the hill ...there�’s another hill waitingfor you; you think you�’vejust gone round that lastcorner, believe me there�’smore path ahead andthere�’s another corner toturn. The point is not towait for the end of thejourney but to enjoy thejourney and make thebest of the journey, asyou enter your studies,even as we are talking toeach other, we shouldthink how can I make acontribution to make thiscountry of ours a betterplace
MrMrMrMrMr. D. D. D. D. D. Hanekom. Hanekom. Hanekom. Hanekom. Hanekom
Opening Ceremony
�“�“
Deputy MinisterDepartment of Science and Technology
16
OurRAs
17
When we are at home there are
people who love us and take
good care of us. Leaving home
was difficult as we weren�’t
sure about who was going
to look after us. As soon as
we knew that there were
people who were going to
look after us and escort us
from class to class, we felt a bit
relieved, but at the same
time we weren�’t really
convinced that they
were the caring types. When we first
met our RA�’s we thought that they we
going to be strict and that they wouldn�’t
relate to us.
Our one RA likes things to be done her
way, she is dedicated to her work as an
RA. She is always on time and
organised, but she�’s also fun loving,
and she loves to joke around. Our next
RA has a balance between fun and
work. She loves dancing and she is also
caring. Finally, our last RA is not so
punctual, enjoys planning and is funny.
Although it is exhausting to wake up at
04h30 in the morning, line up into two
lines and run to our lectures, our RA�’s
have always been supportive, playful
and helped us reach limits we never
thought we could. We appreciate them
for giving up their time and thank them
for dedicating themselves to us.
ResidentialAssistants
18
by Lushavia Govender
Pretty much everyone�’s got it, those
who don�’t, have no idea of what
they are missing. Some call it a disease.
No, its not the Blackberry ... its
Facebook! This massive social network
has captivated the world with its vast
variety of applications, pages and
advertising. The mantra of LOGIN ID
and PASSWORD on the familiar blue
homepage of facebook is one that is
imprinted on the subconscious minds of
the masses. Facebook is one of those
technological advancements that is
bringing our world close together. With
the web page for communication
across the planet at the fastest of
speeds. Staying in contact with that
friend you made in that country you
visited has never been easier. Groups,
events and birthdays are all there for
ease of access to the user. So I guess
at the end of the day, you can say you
have people from the constant users,
seldom users to those who simply
know about it. Facebook is the world�’s
biggest drug and I am not afraid to say
... I AM AN ADDICT.
FaceBook
Maths and ScienceMaths and ScienceMaths and ScienceMaths and ScienceMaths and ScienceGroup JGroup JGroup JGroup JGroup J
Neil Bohr :Neil Bohr :Neil Bohr :Neil Bohr :Neil Bohr : �‘No it doesn�’t, maths people are just hungry. I mean
who looks for the value of pie when its R3.14 at the tuckshop?�’
We Group JGroup JGroup JGroup JGroup J decided amongst ourselves to research this debate
and hopefully resolve the conflict between Pythagoras and Mr Bohr.
In order to conduct this research we had to use the Wits equation
below:
(Workload x Intelligence �– Time)/ Sleep =success in resolving conflicts
There were two workloads, one of Maths and one of Science, we
then used our combined intelligence with the limited time to see
which, between Science and Maths is superior. We then had to
divide our sleeping hours to complete this research and resolve
the conflict.
Maths is needed for calculations in everyday lives, but atoms make
up our everyday life, therefore both subjects are of equal
importance. So we realised that neither is superior to the other.
19
A collection of some poems written by ourtalented students here at the TargetingTalent Programme.
PoemsAll night heated roomsPitch black darkness in the coldAnd the need to catch up on sleepBut it�’s not to beGet up!
There are stairs waiting to be climbedThen finding meal vouchersWhich you MUST NOT loseFor juice, yoghurt, eggs and cereal
Time for DancingSlide to the leftSlide to the rightCha cha before lectures start
An hour and a halfOf wishing you where back in bed�“Is there a bathroom nearby?�”No time for tea
Get to the next lectureOn the other side of campusFollowed by lunchtimeAnd more than enough food
So we have to find another bathroomBut the day is not over yet!Two more lecturesThree more hoursOf Math, Science and Life Studies
We going to build a robotResearch a theoryAnd look for books in the libraryBefore its time for sportAfter going to the bathroom of course.
Running around for a ballOr stretching and punchingYoga, Pilates, Frisbee and SoccerBy then we are longing for supper
Meet up on the stairs, Wait in a lineEveryone needy and excited to dineIt�’s over too quicklyAnd already dark outsideWith one activity left before sleep
�“May we go to the bathroom?�”Before we continueTo hip-hop (the painful warm-up)Or learning to write for a newsletterBy then we exhausted
Fatigued and lethargicWhen after we walk to our roomsWhere homework and showers awaitSet your alarm for five o clockBefore you fall asleep at elevenAnd dream of hard work
Fun times and nice peopleWe�’re having a great timeVisiting caves and museumsAnd though we�’ll go home tiredWe�’ll know we�’ve gained an incredibleexperience.
The TThe TThe TThe TThe TTP ExperienceTP ExperienceTP ExperienceTP ExperienceTP Experienceby Melanie White and Nina- Marie Grobler
Above: Dieter HartmanEngineering Lecturer
20
A person, A piece,Two so differentBut yet the same.Just like that piece of thepuzzleWe are all the sameJust a piece.
Who am I?Who am I?Who am I?Who am I?Who am I?Nosicelo Ndukwana
Am I an evolution solution?Or am I a nature creation?Well that is my questionAnd it needs an explanation!
Excursions are an option,Even tours are the exceptionCause they are the path to collection
My ancestors are in extinctionMaking me wonder about mydestination.Because everyday our lives are goingthrough prosecution,And I am starting to feel frustration.
The theories are interestingBetter than the myths that createexhaustionThe history exhibitionIs covering up the extinction
To me Maropeng means�“welcome home�”Maropeng is home for informationWow. What a great formation withoutlimitation.
Maropeng is your home,Maropeng is my home,Maropeng is our home.
Home, a place full of love, is aplace where you learndiscipline, your comfort zone, a
place that you would not trade foranything in the world. My English teacheralways says, �“Sometimes you need tocome out of your comfort zone�”. What Ihave learnt about every time I come outof my comfort zone is that I alwaysexperience this almost irrevocablefeeling, yearning to go home, betterknown as being �‘homesick�’. This thenbrings me to the question, �“How doeshome feel about my absence?�”
However, with TTP, I had a far differentexperience, every second of my timespent here was occupied that I hardlyfelt the inevitable feeling of beinghomesick. The reason for this lies in themysteries of those who took the time toplan the academic-filled, or rather fun-filled week for all the young and talentedsouls in South Africa. Being a protégé,there was so much to adapt to, yet somany people to help you throughout theproject. Our RAs, whom can be bestdescribed as our older brothers andsisters, or even better, our TTP angels,who have a vocabulary that mainlyconsisted of �“Keep up, run, line up!�”
Moreover, being under theirguidance, I still experienced thetaste of independency, I felt theecstasy while running up and downthe honourable and respectedbuildings of education, whereindiamonds have been shaped intobeautiful gems for many years. Theuproarious dining hall has becomea melody that I looked forward toevery morning. Being part of mygroup gave me a sense ofbelonging, as they felt more like myfamily. Every session was fullyenjoyed, while we mostly worked asone.
The first day might have beenexciting for most of us, yet dauntingfor others. We grew together a bedof flowers that started fromextraordinary seeds, watered withtalent, knowledge, discipline,respect and destined to success.When we go home, not only will wego back with the jackets, but alsothe knowledge we gained, talentsthat we can now fully embrace.
�“If you can�’t excel with talent,triumph with effort�”- DaveWeinbaum.
Away from HomeAway from HomeAway from HomeAway from HomeAway from Homeby Mamello Ndimane
A WA WA WA WA Work of Artork of Artork of Artork of Artork of Artby Naadir Vorajee
But so to are we different,So uniquely cut,ShapedAnd edged.Made so perfectlyTo fit in a specific place.
And just like that pieceWe fit together,We work together,We make a picture,A tapestry,A memory,An Artwork.
21
Life without a goal is like a society
without a leader and a goal without
mentors is like a leader with no
followers. We were once in the dark,
blank and academically careless. We
just heard about world "opportunities"
from other people. Little did we know
that God was on His way with TTP to
rescue us. TTP is a mentor, a saviour.
TTP has taught us life. It has taught us to
be strong and to keep life in order. Even
with tears in our eyes, we still manage to
utter the words "we are OK" with smiles
on our faces.
When we think of giving up, TTP
whispers "HOPE". We hold on to our
dreams everyday, everywhere because
we know we have all the power to be
anything! Absolutely anything we want to
be ... so says TTP. We are now called
leaders of tomorrow, Diamonds of the
present, Scientists of tomorrow, Vice
Chancellors and Ministers of our
generation. We talk the walk and walk
the talk of success. Thanks to TTP!
I fell in love with a programme called
Targeting Talent - TTP for short. To me it
is not just another programme but a
place of ... a place where I realised that
every dream can be a reality. Although
one may think it's a drag because of the
RAs, but if one looks upon the reason
one was always marching in two lines
and why one had strict RAs, one will
realise that Ms Zena Richards was a true
mother to children, by trying to ensure
that her children are well taken care of
and they are safe. We are all aware that
the first trip to TTP was on the 12th of
June 2010, but for me that was not the
beginning of the journey but the
destination. The journey started from
that first moment I decided that a little
studying won't hurt, maybe to put in
more time into my school work won't
hurt, and maybe attending extra lessons
won't hurt.
A wise man once told me that "Talk is
cheap but it is a good start". The
moment I started participating in class ...
giving wrong answers and having the
eagerness to know more, was a perfect
start for me because of all the hard
work. I find myself writing this extract
today, expressing my true inner feeling
and showing my appreciation to all the
sponsors of the programme, all the
coordinators, and to the University of
the Witwatersrand for it is such a
pleasure to be in such an honoured
institution.
Thank You
22
Dear diary, I never thought I would fall
in love with this TTP/TDP programme.
I mean in the beginning I thought it was
going to be all about academics and
learning. I also expected shorter periods of
Maths and Science and even more time to
go out to have fun. Then I entered the real
programme of TTP and TDP then my
expectations became invalid at the end. I
saw people who were way older than me
who referred to themselves as Residence
Assistants, people I didn�’t know and
people I already knew.
Days went by and things started getting
hectic, we slept late and woke up early,
the worse part was that we had to run up
and down the stairs which was so tiring
resulting in us complaining about our
muscle strains at that moment I really
wanted to pack my bags and go home.
Then I introspected and asked myself what
am I thinking? How could I think of such
things while I have a happy second family
here? The very same people that I thought
were strangers became like family to me
and the way they cared about us, they
made sure that we are fed properly and
carefully looked after. The presence of the
RAs made a great difference and with
them around, nothing could possibly go
wrong.
I learned some new things in life like
respecting other people and their diverse
cultures and backgrounds. The
programme also taught me that problems
are just a stepping stone to life. The
problem with waking up early and sleeping
late was teaching us to adapt to the habits
of varsity life and of making independent
choices which are like paving stones to a
well planned and organised future. It also
taught me that problems are blessings in
disguise, even though the stairs and being
early still kill us.
As a TTP Learner, I found it interesting,
important and exciting to be away from
home, because I managed to realize the
responsibilities that I have as a learner.
Some of the responsibilities include
punctuality, independence and self-
control. I believe that in future I will be able
to overcome any challenges and obstacles
that I face in the course of my life. My
actual identity and character were
automatically revealed internally and
externally by TTP.
The program has also been my inspiration
and I admire it. It has given me hope and
self confidence. It has built me and
continues to build me with wonderful
things, like solidarity. There are also other
aspects that I have developed in, these
being self-esteem, self-awareness and
communication. All these values play a
vital role in my life because they determine
how far I can go in life. However, if I was at
home I probably would not think I could
have become the person that I am, this
simply means that I was a lazy person who
was full of hopelessness and dependency,
etc. I would like to say �“big ups, TTP!!�” I
really thank you a billion times.
Wits OurSecondHome Ofentse
RamphoreGROUP B
23
24
It's 4:00 a.m. and my alarm rings. I'm up
and in the shower. After approximately 10
minutes in the shower, I get dressed in 20
minutes. It is now 4:30 a.m. and I have to
tidy up my room and, being the slow
person that I am, I need all the time I can
get to tidy up my room. It is 5:50 a.m. and
we have to meet at the elevators and
make our way to the main dining hall for
breakfast: long queues, RAs screaming
"guys keep up ... close the gap!!"
It's 7:40 a.m., we leave the dining hall, and
we make our way to the exams hall
(running) for plenary. At 8:30 a.m., our first
lecture commences and what happens
after that is pretty obvious. We run
between lectures - East to West campus.
At first, I thought being away from home
was going to be hard, only to discover that
it is quite amazing. This being my second
year in the Targeting Talent Programme, I
have learnt or rather discovered something
and this is: TTP (Witwatersrand) has been
like my "home away from home". Times
aren't always the best in TTP, like the fact
that my group is always late for pretty
much everything, falling ill during my stay
here and running all the time, but one thing
is for sure: the bad never outnumbers the
good.
There is so much to look forward to when I
wake up at 4:00 a.m. (not an easy thing to
do), like the fact that I am going to have
good-tasting breakfast, have a warm-up in
plenary and my first lecture of the day.
During my time here, I have made a whole
lot of friends who I cherish very much. My
RAs, well, they have their days, but I am
thankful to them, as it is because of them
that I have not been reported missing on
the campus. Something else to look
forward to in this programme is sports and
hip hop. This programme has taught me a
number of things, one of them being that a
person can focus on their studies and still
have a little bit of fun. Hip Hop is one
example of this; this is where we get to
show off our dance moves, or at least the
people who can actually dance. Sports is
another great way to keep fit and have fun
and it is here where I learnt that life is not
all about competing, because when that
happens we forget how to have fun.
If I were to write about every single thing
that I have expereinced during my time
here, I would need one full week and a
whole lot of paper to be able to get
everything down. What I would like to say
though, is thank you, thank you very much
for everything that I have experienced
during my time here, whether good or bad,
because then again the bad is only
equipping me for what is still to come in my
near future. There are not enough words
to express the gratitude I feel for being a
part of this programme, so I'll simply say
"Thank you for everything!!"
Our WitsExperience
NthabisengMoloi GROUP B
25
26
Since Grade One we've been admiring
all the high school children, in particular the
matriculants thinking: �“Wow! When are we ever
going to get there?�” and so school has been for
many of us a great countdown to this very
moment.
Boy how wrong we were!
When in Matric one soon learns that it is not all
fun and games as one might have thought. Non-stop working is what we have become
accustomed to. One hardly gets a chance to
breath, not if one wants to pass that is. Sleeping
has become a luxury to most of us that we ever
so often hear people chirping about.
This is the year when one sees that having one�’s
life in one�’s own hands is not all it's cracked up to
be. Vital decisions have to be made concerning
your life. Universities have to be chosen, bursaries
have to applied for, research has to be done. But
being in matric is not all that bad. We do after all
only have about six months of formal school and
many exciting things to look forward to such as
varsity and for some of us it's finally moving out!
It is a test of character where we see how people
cope under pressure. Everyone has to make
personal sacrifices like giving-up TV or that huge
party at your friends house to study. Of course,
those who do so shall reap the benefits come D-
day but if there's one thing we have learnt from
TTP it's this: keeping a balance between work and
play is one of the most important skills one should
learn, especially in matric. And so in a nut-shell
one could say that matric is an appetizer to life �–
the main course.
FinalCount-down
Thando MntamboGRADE 12
27
28
TTP 2011Learners &ResidentialAssistants
29
l
30
TTPRegionalWorkshops
The programme in 2011 has expanded to cater to600 learners. However while the programme
(thanks to our sponsors) has grown to include thenine provinces of South Africa, the annual familyworkshops are still primarily conducted in threeprovinces: Gauteng, Limpopo and Mpumalanga. Thefamily workshops provide Wits University with theopportunity to strengthen its relationship with thelearners, their guardians, families and theircommunities. The backing and support of thesestakeholders is essential for the success of theprogramme. We hope to expand family workshopsto more provinces over the next few years.
Top photo:Parents attendingfamily workshop
31
The Targeting Talent Project has helped
lots and lots of people including myself
because I�’m now able to stand here
talking the talk and walking the walk of
success and development through this
programme. It has helped me to start
accomplishing my dreams and I must say
this is a golden opportunity.
The opportunity to make success in each
and every individual life, an opportunity that
needs to be grabbed and used wisely
My thoughts, attitude, focus, perception,
self talk, mindset, my talent and visions of
the future all work together to make a
difference in this country and to help those
who don�’t understand regarding their
school work.
I am now proud to say I have a string of
talent and a seed of potential that has
been discovered by this programme. I�’m
honoured to be in this programme for TTP
is the best without limitations and
hesitations. You are truly investing in
excellence and are the best facilitators of
success.
I SALUTE YOU TTP.
THANK YOU!!!
Elizabeth Siphiwe Sigaleni
Letsibogo Girls�’ High School
GautengFamilyWorkshop
Left photo:Ms. C. WilliamsEducator, Fred NormanSenior Secondary School
32
33
The Targeting TalentEducatiom Programmeby the University ofWitwatersrand inpartnership with MDoE
Myra Dunley OwenMpumalanga Department of Education
34
monitor the degree to which all the
interventions, such as the streamlining of
the national curriculum, have had an
impact on learning.
Mpumalanga has further introduced
the PAA. This is another round of provincial
common standardized tests that will be
written in Grades 3, 6 and 9 towards the
end of November. It is hoped that the
results will help to identify the gaps in the
knowledge of the learners where
intervention can be focused in order to
ensure that in 2012 the results present a
different picture.
The Targeting Talent Project is one of
the many projects implemented with the
co-operation and initiative of the Wits
University with which we are involved.
The first phase of the project started in
2007 and was highly successful, both at
the pre - university phase and the
university phase with a high success rate
of young people qualifying in fields that
they most likely would never have
succeeded in without this project.
Statistics indicate that South African
matriculants currently have an exemption
rate of just 23,5%, which is alarming when
compared with that of other countries e.g.
In the UK 43% of school leavers enter
university. Of further concern is the
reported half a million children that
disappeared in the schooling system
between 1998 and 2009.
In Mpumalanga in 2010 59 630
learners wrote the NSC examination with
29 382 learners passing the examination
giving us a pass rate of 56,8% which was
an increase of 8,9% from 2009 but we
were still at the bottom in the country.
Furthermore only 15.8% of the learners
achieved a pass which allowed them to
register with a University for a Bachelor�’s
Degree. 20 139 learners wrote Physical
Sciences and only 8 352 (41,5%) achieved
at 30% and above and 24,7% at 40% and
above. In Mathematics 24 167 wrote and
only 10 007 (41,4%) achieved at 30% and
above with 26,6% achieving at 40% and
above.
These facts highlight the need for
programmes that intervene at a basic level
and consider the psychological and
external factors impacting on the poor
figures haunting South African education.
The �‘Targeting Talent�’ is one such
programme. It is an initiative that unlike
many other programmes, does not focus
on remedial activities once young people
have left school, nor on performance
improvement projects for underperforming
schools. What makes this initiative unique
is that it seeks to focus on high-performing
learners in under resourced schools �– that
is, young people who are economically
disadvantaged but who have managed to
beat the odds through the support of a
committed school community.
The focus of this programme is to
ensure that the targeted learners do better
in the NSC, their school leaving
examination (Matric) while also adopting
the kind of learning and study skills that are
more suited to university and by making
the kind of subject choices that will allow
them access to particular degree
programmes.
It is also our experience that once
young people are admitted to university,
another range of significant challenges
faces those who come from backgrounds
(i.e. educational and socio-economic) that
are very different from the environment at
university. Apart from the financial
challenges, the transition from a deficient
schooling system to the academic practice
of a University poses significant challenges
for learners in everything from time
management, to more individual
responsibility for learning, to ways in which
learning and engagement with material
takes place.
Compounding the problem is the fact
that, of the small proportion that do enter
higher education, more than a third of
students do not complete their first year of
study, and up to half exit the system
without a qualification. There is an over
representation of black students in this
group . The single biggest factor
preventing learners from entering higher
education, or preventing them from
succeeding if they do manage to enter, is
academic preparedness. While other
factors (like the financial status of families,
or subject choice) do play a role, it is the
35
level of competency in key subjects, and
orientations towards study, that influence
the success of learners most directly.
The project is now in the second
phase. This project selects learners in
Grade 10 and provides extra tuition in the
content in key subjects as well as
exposure to university life. This extra
motivation and interaction with university
role models has ensured good results in
Grade 12 and provided access to tertiary
education for them. The first group of
learners have now completed their basic
degrees, again with a high rate of success,
which also speaks for the successful
approach of the project.
In addition the project provides extra
support for the teachers of the learners
enrolled in the programme, to ensure
continuity and mentoring of the cohort.
A few words to the learners. All of you
here are winners, every one of you. You all
have the potential to go far in life �– and
why do I say this? In today�’s world maths
and science play a major role. You have all
been given the opportunity to achieve in
these important subjects. Use your ability
to stretch your minds.
Now why are maths and science so
important? Well in the next 10 - 20 years
there will be careers that you and your
colleagues will follow �– careers that we do
not even know about today. And all of
them will need knowledge of science and
maths. These are the basics for the future.
It is therefore up to you all to make sure
that you get the best results you can in
your final exams and then you will be able
to choose any career you like.
C O N C L U S I O NC O N C L U S I O NC O N C L U S I O NC O N C L U S I O NC O N C L U S I O N
The Mpumalanga Department of
Education is extremely grateful to this
project for selecting it to be one of the
participating provinces. There are many
rural schools and disadvantaged learners
out there who do not have the opportunity
to further their education, and projects like
this are assisting to give those learners the
opportunity to qualify in scarce subjects
and provide the skills our country so badly
needs. THANK YOU.
Mr. N. J. PhaleniTshebela High School
Dear parents, fellow educators,
departmental officials, and you
learners, it is a great honour and a
privilege for me to be given this
opportunity to say something in
connection with the impact of this
Targeting Talent Project. I was
personally involved with this Targeting
Talent Project from 2007 and it made
wonders to our school both on the side
of learners and on the side of educators
who were on a yearly basis attending
the contact sessions at the University of
Witwatersrand. Targeting Talent Project
has for the past four years or so
targeted learners in the former
disadvantaged communities with the
aim of extracting and polishing the
diamond from its own.
Last year we witnessed the growing
numbers of learners passing
Mathematics and Physical sciences
with A symbols, with numerous B and C
passes especially in schools where
there are Targeting Talent Learners. In
March this year, ten of the schools with
Targeting Talent Learners were awarded
the Mostly Improved School Award.
I think this numbers will increase
tremendously in the near future not only
on the side of the learners but we
educators also benefited from this talent
project for the past four years. These
workshops made a very significant
impact on our subject knowledge as
educators. Apartheid and lack of
resources are no longer justifiable
agreements.
Limpopo FamilyWorkshop
In this case you cannot defend
mediocrity on the basis of the legacy of
apartheid, because apartheid is gone.
Let us wake up and move on! We need
to choose excellence and reject
mediocrity for the sake of nation
building, socio-economic development
and the true liberation of the nation.
I acknowledge that the legacy of
apartheid continues to affect us but this
has come to a stop because we are
now having resources, we are having
projects like Targeting Talent that now
helps us a lot in moving forward. The
program promotes excellence and
rejects mediocrity.
It is through Targeting Talent Project
that a daughter of a peasant can
become a Doctor; that a son of a
mineworker can become an engineer;
that the child of a farmworker can
become an astronomer. It is what we
make out of what we have and not
what we are given that separates one
person from the other.
These are the words of wisdom
from our former President Dr. Nelson
Mandela. With these few words I would
like to say thank you very much.
Mr. N.J Phaleni
36
Vukosi MalulekeLemana High School
It is indeed more than a cliché that the
greater things in life present
themselves in small packages and they
usually come unexpected. This was of
course the case when an A4-size
envelope was handed over to me with life-
changing application forms from the
Targeting Talent Programme which has
become affectionately known as TTP, the
brain child of Student Equity and Talent
Management Unit at Wits University. And
as the wise often say, �“a journey of a
thousand miles begins with the first step�”-
that package for me and over three
hundred other learners was the beginning
of a whole new era.
Participating in this programme has
prompted me to explore and further
discover my potential through intense, but
fulfilling tasks which engage one to take
time-out and think productively. The past
year and a half was also an introduction to
the concept of life-long learning, which
maintains that learning does not simply
stop outside the classroom, but promotes
the on-going gain of knowledge as it is by
far the greatest sword to eliminate the
adverse global pandemic of poverty and
inefficiency, especially in our dark African
continent.
Presently, the future is said to lie on
Mathematics, Science and Technology
and TTP has taken that to greater heights
by exposing us to this fascinating world
through a more-detailed and advanced
curriculum. With the genuine assistance
from highly-educated lecturers and the use
of top-of-the-range facilities of the
Witwatersrand University-we came to
break the perception that major subjects
such as Mathematics and Science are
difficult, but now we choose to think of
them as rather challenging instead. After
all, a life without challenges would not be
worth living. Would it?
The Targeting Talent Programme has
not only been an academic climb, but it
has also been filled with lessons of
personal development growth and maturity.
Having to be away from home for two
weeks, without the aid of family was key to
personal independence as an individual
human being. So while parents and
guardians spent hours worrying at home
we were having the time of our lives on the
secure campus of Wits University- I am not
sure as to how many people missed home,
but I certainly am not one of them.
Participating in this programme was
also a true reminder of how blessed we are
to be part of a country as diverse as South
Africa. The different cultures and traditions
are a symbol of unity and pride, and this
programme has shown me that variety can
be used positively to learn more about the
different lifestyles of other people rather
than to discriminate. Behind the different
social status�’, colour and other affiliations
we have that common goal which binds us
together and that is the goal to succeed
and become productive members of
society, and being part of this distinctive
programme has been an eye-opener in
tons of ways. I am proud to stand firm and
say that this programme has shed a light of
hope for a luminous future. As Jozi
mentioned in their song hustling that �“It
does not matter where you are from but
only where you are going because it is only
where you are going can determine where
you are from�”, TTP is a practical example
of that statement. We may not have the
life of royalty today but the future has more
in store for us and we will never have the
privilege of enjoying life unless we first had
to suffer and strive for the best. To me this
programme resembles infinite possibilities
and I hope the feeling is mutual for all TTP
learners from and outside Limpopo
Province. I am now well-equipped with all
the required information to make a precise
career choice and study towards
becoming that academically accomplished
being. Like every other young person, I
aspire to become that person who will
make a contribution to world peace and
with TTP already under my belt of
achievements, my dreams are within
reach. I would also like to urge all TTP
learners to use this Programme as a
stepping stone to greater things which are
still to unveil in our successful lives ahead
and not just as a �‘get-away-from-home�’
holiday opportunity. Let us not allow the
hard work and dedication of our education
department and other sponsors, as well as
the likes of Miss Zena Richards go to
waste, but let us build a legacy for
generations to come. We are truly
privileged to be graced with the opportunity
of participating in this exceptional
programme. TTP has indeed invested in
excellent talent and will absolutely facilitate
our success.
Ms. NgobenilePrincipal: EbenezerSchool
Future begins with the present that�’s the
word of Vukosi Maluleke. Acting
H.O.D, Senior District Manager present
here, Circuit Managers, Acting Senior
General Manager, Target Talent Program
Managers, Program Director, Distinguished
guests, colleagues, Parents and our dear
learners, I want like to thank you.
I feel honoured to have been given
opportunity to share with you at a forum
like this. I want to say to you: who would
not want to be around people who believe
in themselves and others, who have hope
and work positively to solve problems and
overcome difficulties? No one. That is why
we are here and we are happy to be here
because we know that this kind of a forum
is going to assist us a lot. This is one of the
many questions asked by one man that I
like most that is Maxwell c, John c Maxwell
who further emphasized that anyone who
helps others discover the impact of the
difference maker helps himself , helps
others and makes his little corner of the
world a better place. Sometimes when you
read the books you will find that people are
talking about the his and is, there�’s no her.
But I�’m happy today after watching the
DVD, that our learners really understand
what racial issues are and what gender
sensitivity means. So Ladies and
gentlemen, we have a wonderful program
in front of us and it is very effective and I
want to say it again and its impact are
37
clearly seen by all those who are exposed
to it. The Learners, the Educators and the
parents at home we can see the
difference in our children. This program
has changed their attitudes but due to time
constraints, I will just be brief in indicating
those impacts that are visible. Our learners
are empowered, you heard how Vukosi
Maluleke was presenting here, you have
seen the DVD, and they always portray a
character of confidence. At school and at
home we talk to the parents that which
they make us see at school is the same
things that they do at home and we are
proud of this program. First of all this
program assist these learners to develop
clear visions. Talking to them make me
realize that they know exactly where they
want to go and they know exactly how
they will get there, and it means that it
helps our children develop the vision and
they are always focused because they
know where they are going. They are not
sidetracked by all those trivial issues we
face in the universities, they are future
orientated and display principled lifestyles
and do not compromise their life style. You
look at them right now, you will agree with
me that they look like professionals at their
age and we are proud of the program. The
second point that I want to mention of is
that they have been discovered purposes
in their lives. They know exactly and even if
during lunch you just chat with them, they
will indicate that they have got a purpose
in life. They are not living just because they
are there and I want to quote one guy here
Dr. S.S. Khumalo who quoted this man
called Rick Warren saying �“knowing your
purpose gives meaning to your life�”
simplifies your life, focuses your life,
motivate your life and prepares for your
eternity, that�’s how our lands are and they
are who are in this program. Learners who
are in this program have got meaning to
our lives. I want to indicate another impact
that was very clear that they show an
element of commitment to their studies
and should be their dreams and they know
how to actualize their dreams, you talk to
them you will wonder, you will wonder how
they think, you will know that these are
learners who are in Grade 11 this year but
they know exactly, they are committed,
they know how to get where they want to
go. They always respect time and
understand its value; they do not
compromise their principles and they
engaged in activities that are beneficial
and add value to their lives. That�’s how
committed are this learners. Another
impact that is clear is that our learners are
motivated, their life style serve as an
inspiration to others. If it was possible all
the learners were going to join this TTP
because indeed even at school when they
are walking around the other learners are
inspired and they are able to maintain the
positive character in different situations. I
don�’t know how they did that but
somehow the program made our learners
very strong; they maintain the same
positive character. Even if it�’s difficult and
they uphold to their vision which maybe
they are not aware of but when I was
looking at them, when I was watching the
DVD, I said no, you know what the vision
of these learners is; failure is not an option
because they are not going to fail, they are
not going to disappoint themselves, they
are looking at themselves first and another
impact is that they have passion on the
program and having the passion in the
program assisted us as principals. Assisted
us as parents, assisted the schools to
ensure that we all have got learners who
are going to make it in life, they are going
to succeed because they are passionate
about whatever they are doing and I�’m
also saying again thanks to this program.
You know they are not pushed to do what
they are supposed to do. I have never one
day forced them to do something, you
assigned them a duty, be it from a program
or from the teachers or at school you will
be assured that they will do or complete it
with excitement and smiling faces. They
are enthusiastic, creative and innovative;
they differ from children of our age those
years. Thanks to this program again.
Another impact is that they show courage;
they always refused to be undermined and
understand the principle of first things first.
They do not mix issues, they know what it
means to priorities and they are not afraid
of being criticized and are not easily
discouraged. I don�’t know again what was
happening there but after I watched the
DVD, I have realized that they enjoyed
themselves, they had fun, and they were
dancing. Having these equipments which
they do not have in some other schools.
They are self disciplined which is the most
important character that I have discovered,
they are self disciplined, they give an
account of themselves in every aspects of
their lives a good one. And they are time
conscious and always create time
opportunities to compensate for time
wasted. They are not saying we are not
going to complete this task because we
were not there when they were busy with
this task in the class. They always fight a
way of coming back, they are deadline
oriented and unsettled by unfinished
projects. When they have got a project to
complete and they realized that the project
the time is not on their side, you see them
being unsettled unlike other learners who
will say no I did not have time, I was busy
with something but this one from the
program they are doing wonders. Finally I
was going to request something but what I
want to say is �“as principals or
stakeholders let us go and support the
program holy. We have seen that at Wits
they have got the equipments, they have
got the laboratory and immediately after
their return there�’s no way where they are
going to find those things. It is not for us to
lamate that now. What is important for us is
to go back as stakeholders, check what
impact we can put into this program, so
that they must not see these operators at
Wits only and I hope we are going to do
that. I was seated there at home, watching
the DVD we are failing the program but
believe me today we have learnt a lot and
we are going to give it the proper support
that it deserves. I�’m saying this on behalf
of all the principals on behalf of all the
parents because as parents who are here
we know your SGB�’s at your schools. Let
me conclude by saying the program does
wonders to our schools and thank you very
much.
Ms. Ngobenile
38
It is the rythym, the beat,the people and the magic.�“ �“
39
It is the rhythm, the beats, the people and the magic. Itall seems easy yet hectic. It is art at its very best, at itsfullest. The vibe can get you lost in a world that you
wouldn�’t want to be found. We know they say hip-hop ismusic, culture and movement, but to us hip-hop is anindividual who captured the hearts of those with the powerof expression. It is the ability to explore this mesmerizingart. It is indeed a privilege. Today hip-hop is a globalmovement that incorporates not only dance but musicas well as art into its versatile realms. Hip-hop is a globalempire and a culture and it has been going on before ourtime. This is where neck and bones meet, concrete andlegs meet air. It is a type of modern dance music withspoken and steady beats. It takes a lot of practice in orderto master the basic steps and movements that appearsimple when performed. For other people, hip-hop is notjust a hobby but it�’s the air they breathe because withoutit, they are silent in their lifeless bodies. The programgave us the incredible opportunity to introduce hip hopclasses and their tricky moves because physics is hip-hop and hip-hop is TTP. TTP has allowed a lot of peopleto be unified to achieve one common goal ... success.
40
ClosingDinnerThe closing ceremony for the 2011 Residential
Programme started on time. As the students and theirguests filled the auditorium, excitement and a feeling
of expectation swept through the room. One would wonderwhat the buzz was all about; well, the learners were goinghome. After a busy programme, it was an opportunity tounwind and for the various groups to give their presentations.The noise and the interaction grew to a crescendo and then,silence. The raised hand signal, I could almost hear a pindrop.
41
Ladies and Gentlemen, our esteemed guests, sponsors and the very
Talented Learners, it is heartwarming to see the transformation from
shy unsure learners to world-class performers (my personal opinion).
After the obligatory speeches, which were thankfully kept very brief, and
we had all eaten, the various groups were given the opportunity to
present. I wonder where they found the time to practice with all the
workload. However, at the end of the ceremony, we all agreed that these
learners are indeed talented; and like someone special once said �“I don�’t
think the sponsors are wasting their money�“
As we say goodbye to one another, we look forward to the 2012, we
thank you once again Wits University for making this happen. Bye!
