Tsakani – In commemoration of Mandela Day, Michael Zulu Primary School held an awareness day on July 18 for learners, teaching them about discipline and the importance of being upstanding members of society.
The school held special events with performances and activities, and teachers highlighted the importance of celebrating Mandela Day.
Deputy principal Mathapelo Mokhine, said values such as ubuntu, forgiveness, being caring, loving and having respect are some morals she wished to instil in her learners.
She further cited it was important to teach children about uTata and his great work to liberate our country while ensuring equality and access to resources.
“Today we celebrated a great icon in South Africa, even the world; if only we knew the path Dr Nelson Mandela had to tread for us to celebrate this day.
“We now have access to free and proper education. We have rights, freedom of speech and equality because of the sacrifices that our former president made for us. As a school, we deem it important to educate the next generation about uTata and what he has done for this country,” cited Mokhine.
During her address, she said in whatever action the learners embark on, they should always respect the values Tata left for us.
“Mandela Day is about recognising the gospel of Ubuntu. It is not just for a day, we must make Mandela Day every day,” she said.
The school further collected non-perishable food donations to give to the children whom the school identified to be in need.
SGB chairperson Vusimuzi Tshabalala said the school was aware that it had children who come from different backgrounds.
“As an SGB member, I am happy that the school celebrated and taught the learners about Mandela Day, who Dr Mandela is and what he did for South Africans.
“The new generation needs to know that we had an iconic leader who made sure that he left behind a legacy for his people.
“We did not only see the need to do something for 67 minutes but collaborated with the public, library committee and teachers in generating food parcels for our children who are in need,” said Tshabalala.
The school concluded their programme by cleaning the school grounds as part of their Mandela Day celebration.
Scholar patrollers and teachers worked hand in hand to ensure the school was tidy and clean.
