Seventeen learners of Mahematshena Primary School, outside Thohoyandou, have displayed to the world that education and extramural activities can be merged successfully. The children, with the assistance of their teachers, have taken the dancing world by storm. They have participated in different competitions and come out tops, making them one of the best groups of dancers in Limpopo. They thrill fans with their dances which range from Kwaito to Rhumba and Sarafina.

Their teacher, Tshilidzi Sikhwari, said the dancing project is part of the school’s mission of unearthing hidden talents amongst the learners. She said there is a need to mix education with extramural activities to ensure that learners feel free at all times. "At first we just thought it would be an ordinary project, but our feelings ran high when everyone was impressed by the children’s performance. We identified some of the kids who are talented in dancing and we motivated them continuously. We also told them that they could make a living through their talents if they nurtured them accordingly."

Sikhwari says the learners have participated in different venues and they leave a legacy wherever they go. "They really impress everyone and they have countless awards on their credit. These children will obviously go places and their talent is exceptional."

She added that the dancing project couldn’t have succeeded if there was no support from fellow educators, the school governing body and more importantly, the parents. "The support we are getting is overwhelming and we would like to thank everyone involved."

One of the learners who participates in the dancing project, Vhalinavho Tshikukuvhe (11) who is in Grade 6, says she enjoys the dancing sessions and hopes that she will one day make a living with her dancing talent.