Top SA artists collaborate on UCT Online High School theme song

The school is a joint initiative of UCT and the Valenture Institute. It seeks to accelerate access to world-class high school education and unleash Africa’s full potential. The programme makes UCT the first African university to achieve such a milestone, with more than 10 000 learner applications and the first cohort of 5 000 learners in 2022.

The release of ‘We Own The Future’ coincided with the International Day of Education on 24 January, in celebration of the role played by education in bringing global peace and sustainable development.

“This is perhaps one of the most inspiring songs I have heard in my entire life,” UCT Online High School’s first director and principal Yandiswa Xhakaza said. “I would have loved to have such an affirming school song growing up, it is a reminder of what is possible, what to aspire to and every time we sing this song we are reminded that our learners not only have a place in the future but that they own the future.”

GoodLuck band member Jules Harding said: “It was such a joy for us to create this song in the spirit of learning with some of the most exciting artists in South Africa. To be able to inspire learners to reach higher within a new lane of schooling that is exciting and progressive is a massive honour for us. We can't wait for the world to hear what we have created with Msaki, YoungstaCPT and Shekhinah as our gift to the next generation of inspired youth.”

Shekhinah adds her soulful voice and lyrical prowess, while Msaki creates a melodic verse appealing to the younger generation to shine and become independent. YoungstaCPT submits his lyrical mastery by offering solid advice to the youth.

Msaki said: “It’s been such a privilege to have the opportunity to encourage this group of dynamic young Africans, future artists, scholars and global citizens. To have the chance to collaborate with these amazing musicians was such an enjoyable experience, artists that embody the spirit of independence, community and innovation. I see long lasting relationships forged. To all the learners at the school, set your dreams high, there is greatness within you and I hope that you all achieve everything you set out to achieve.”

Filmed at UCT’s Sarah Baartman Hall, the music video takes the viewer through scenes of the recording, as well as the iBhodi Trust micro-school learners whose voices are featured in the chorus of the school.