Strong alumni associations in the US, for example, contribute substantial sums of money to their institutions. In South Africa, especially among blacks, there seems to be little interest among alumni to look back and support their old institutions. I do, however, acknowledge the nascent pockets of alumni associations of former black schools that are emerging in some parts of the country.
This is a culture that we should endeavour to nurture. The relationship with a school does not and should not end with matriculation. We must seek to inculcate in learners that when they proceed to higher education, join the world of work or business, they remain representatives of their former schools in the community, country and the world at large.