Study Buddy Project prepares Youth for Leadership Challenges


Since high school, Xander van Lill, an honours student in our Department of Psychology, asked himself the question:

“What is the value of my existence in an ever-changing and somewhat paradoxical learning environment?”

Being a student at the Department did not only shed light on Xander’s questions, but it also gave him the opportunity to act and make a difference in some learners’ lives.


Description: Students of the Department of Psychology are involved in the Study Buddy service-learning project at Ikaelelo High School in an attempt to prepare the youth for the leadership challenges they face. Tags: University of the Free State

"Defined by my fellow citizens", says Study Buddy facilitator, Xander van Lill, to a group of learners at the Ikaelelo High School


As part of a Service Learning Initiative, students of the Department are involved in the Study Buddy service-learning project at Ikaelelo High School in an attempt to prepare the youth for the leadership challenges they face. With a little effort, they also empower learners with the skills and knowledge to enjoy a better quality of life.

The Study Buddy project utilises community psychology principles to facilitate life skills development, study skills, career planning and personal enrichment. A typical day would include a class discussion on characteristics of African leadership, activities to develop skills relevant to leadership and small-group discussions where the perspectives obtained during the sessions are critically reviewed and applied to everyday contexts.

“I am amazed by the learners’ willingness to challenge our team’s ideas and innovatively adapting the course of the sessions to address their challenges. At times, I felt so moved by the learner’s strong sense of social activism and need for influence that I doubted my role as a facilitator. Although I might not agree with all the viewpoints of the learners, I am willing to acknowledge that our group discussions are changing my perspectives on many subjects.

“My life’s value is enriched by the learning opportunities at Ikaelelo and I believe it to be the same for some of the learners. Hopefully, with all our differences, we will continue to reinforce our common sense of equality and keep each other accountable for our words and actions as citizens taking responsibility for the present and future of South Africa. I conclude that my role in life is not isolated, neither somewhat heroic, but that I am defined by my South African citizenry as well as my fellow citizens,” said Xander.

Leonie Bolleurs
Dumela, December 2011

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