Musina Mayor Carol Phiri and her councillors visited local schools last Wednesday, the first day of the 2014 academic year, to encourage learners and teachers to start their lessons with enthusiasm and to motivate pupild to study hard.

When addressing teachers and pupils at Musina High School, she thanked all stakeholders who had made 2013 a successful year. Musina High School attained a 70,9% Grade 12 pass rate last year.

“I take this opportunity to encourage you to study hard and take education seriously, because it is through education that knowledge and information are received and spread throughout the world. For the rest of 2014, forget about anything else and put your books first. It is our wish that all of you must be studying at tertiary institutions next year. You can only achieve this through hard work. You are very lucky because you have dedicated educators who are readily available to assist you day and night.”

Phiri also introduced the Musina Municipality mayoral study donations, which are presented to deserving learners every year. “I encourage you to make use of this opportunity, because the municipality is always there to assist you to achieve your educational goals,” she said.

The principal, Mr Abram Ligavha, said the recipe for success at his school was team work, dedication and proper planning.