Funda Nenja’s Friday classes are helping children develop responsibility and compassion through practical learning with their dogs.
Mpophomeni, South Africa (24 August 2026) – Getting a new bicycle is a pretty big deal when you’re eight years old. But for Abongwe Shandu, there was one thing that still couldn’t wait: Friday afternoon dog school.
During the July school holidays, Abongwe arrived home with his brand-new bicycle, and his grandmother assumed he might be too excited about it to attend his usual Funda Nenja class.
Instead, he grabbed Ranger, his dog, and headed off to class as usual. That small moment has become a lovely example of the impact Funda Nenja’s programme is having on the children who attend its Friday sessions.
The programme uses practical, hands-on activities to teach children how to care for their dogs, while also helping them develop responsibility, empathy and a stronger sense of commitment.
According to feedback shared by Funda Nenja’s social worker, Abongwe’s grandmother says he regularly comes home excited to share what he has learnt and looks forward to his classes every week. In fact, she describes Funda Nenja as one of his favourite places.
She has also noticed a change in the way he cares for Ranger. He understands the importance of looking after his dog, pays greater attention to his needs and regularly takes him for walks.
It is exactly the kind of change the programme hopes to encourage. It shows children that caring for an animal isn’t just about feeding it or playing with it, but about responsibility, patience and building a bond.
For Abongwe, that bond with Ranger seems to be making the lessons even more meaningful.
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