SU helps with leadership development at schools

Every person has the potential to become a leader, said Dr Leslie van Rooi, Head of the Frederik van Zyl Slabbert Institute for Student Leadership Development (FVZS) at Stellenbosch University (SU) on Wednesday (27 July) during the fourth conversation of SU’s School Partnership Project.

 According to Van Rooi, it is important to develop the general leadership skills of students and learners and to enhance their learning experience.

 “Leadership development should not just enhance skills, but also cultivate well-rounded individuals. People need more skills to move South Africa forward. Leadership development must cultivate critical thinkers who can change the lives of fellow South Africans.”

 Van Rooi mentioned that SU is involved in leadership development at schools on different levels and programmes at the FVZS are structured in a way that benefits learners. Through its involvement in schools, SU promotes the further development of learners, he said.

Dr Leslie van Rooi (left) and Mr Grant Demas were speakers at the fourth conversation. (Photo: Joanne Williams)

 SU plans to enhance the leadership skills of learners in schools through a range of programmes.

 Teachers must be involved in leadership development in schools and the social context of schools should to be considered, said Van Rooi. Better collaboration is needed between faculties on the one hand and between faculties and schools on the other hand to promote leadership development.

 Mr Grant Demas who is involved with Lynedoch Primary School through the Sustainability Institute and a PhD psychology student at SU, also made an address and emphasised that collaboration between SU and schools should be spontaneous in order to unearth the leadership potential of learners.

 “Leadership development must empower all learners and encourage them to express their views and to take responsibility for their actions.” Every teacher has a responsibility in this regard, he said.

•  The series of conversations look at how collaboration between faculties can improve SU’s interaction with schools. The next conversation will take place on the 14^th of September. For more information, contact Rolene Liebenberg, Manager: Schools Partnership Project, at rolene@sun.ac.za or 021 808 9142.