Good Samaritan MUT helps pupils write their final IT exams

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TRUE to its Anchor Strategy philosophy, the Mangosuthu University of Technology (MUT) came to the aid of three Umlazi high schools when they had problems with their computers.

The problems arose as the schools were approaching the final year exams. One of the school’s computers was stolen. Thanks to a quick-thinking university head, about 100 Grade 12 learners from Velabahleke High School, Embizweni High School, and Zwelibanzi High School wrote their Grade 12 computer applications technology (CAT) exams at the university’s chemical engineering computer laboratories.

Senior director of the department of marketing and communications, Mbali Mkhize, said what chemical engineering head Njabulo Zulu had done spoke to their strategy.

“As MUT, we are sensitive to the needs of our communities, particularly our immediate communities, that we want to grow with, as required by our Anchor Strategy. We regarded this challenge of the schools in uMlazi township, where we are located, as a chance to assist schools in dire need. Helping our neighbours is the soul of the university,” Mkhize said.

He said that for Zulu to loan the schools his department’s laboratories was very much like him.

“Zulu saw the need to ensure that the learners were able to write their final year exams, which is a huge determinant of their future. Zulu, a pastor, is also a mentor to pre-tech students,” said Mkhize.

The principals of Embizweni High School, Bheki Hlengwa, and Velabahleke High School, Bheki Mhlongo, were appreciative of the help their schools received from the university.

“Thank you very much for your hospitality. Our learners did very well in their CAT exam. We really appreciate MUT’s sacrifice, especially in preparation for this day,” Mhlongo said.

“As Embizweni High School, we wish to pass our gratitude to management of the university for assisting us during our time of need. The assistance we received is great. Thank you once more,” Hlengwa said.

A learner from Velabahleke, Wamkelwe Mbedu, said: “Without the MUT’s help, our future would have been a dam without water.”

THE principal of Embizweni High, Bheki Hlengwa, left, with two learners and an official from the Department of Education in one of the chemistry labs at MUT.