In an inspiring display of youth-led action and global citizenship, learners from the Maths and Science Leadership Academy (MSLA) in Kimberley have launched a powerful initiative aimed at addressing South Africa’s Grade 4 reading crisis.
Under the banner of “Make Reading Count”, the project was initiated by four Grade 11 learners who represented South Africa at the prestigious Pan African Youth Leadership Programme (PAYLP) in the United States in April 2023. Upon returning, they were challenged to demonstrate their leadership through a community outreach initiative. Their response was both practical and impactful.
The MSLA PAYLP team spearheaded the “Make Reading Count” pilot project as…
Daily Sun: Known for its sensationalist style, it is one of the highest-selling
newspapers in South Africa.

Evil Smith
Babbelas – hangover [bub-ba-las] This word is derived from the Zulu ‘ibhabhalazi’ and is used to describe a really bad hangover.Example: “Eish, babbelas my bru!”
Overrun
Aikona – not on your life [eye-koh-na] or [hi-koh-na] A Zulu term used to express shock or disbelief when talking to friends or family.Example: “Aikona, why did she do that?!” / “Haikona, when?! How?!”