Looking Forward to 2022

A new variant of the coronavirus, Omicron, was identified in South Africa in November 2021. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), it is not yet known if Omicron is more transmissible than previous variants or if it causes more severe disease. More information is necessary to compare it to other variants, including Delta. However, there has been a sharp increase in new cases in South Africa due to Omicron. Based on preliminary evidence gather by the WHO, there may be an increased risk of reinfection by this variant, meaning those who have previously tested positive have an increased chance of testing positive again from Omicron. In response, Inkululeko will continue providing its resources to youth in South Africa while being cognizant of the situation and formulating new strategies if necessary.

Inkululeko has already adapted to a hybrid learning approach which will be continued during the upcoming year. Our teaching lead was provided with administrative support to ensure that lessons from tutors were distributed to learners and kept for future reference in a Google Drive. Students and tutors met remotely via Google Meet and WhatsApp to continue working toward learners’ academic goals. Additionally, the structure of the academic support program was refined and reinvented, as were the roles of our team members to adapt to current circumstances. Revisiting our learning structure strengthened and improved our current programs. We also will continue our online business courses which incorporate principles of a green economy.

Despite the uncertainty of situations with COVID around the world, Inkululeko will persevere through supporting our learners and their goals.