As part of Anti-Racism Week, St John’s Prep hosted Reginald Nkosi to talk to the boys about the three years he spent as a political prisoner on Robben Island in the 1980s.
Reginald is the father of Grade 4 learner Sinenhlanhla Nkosi who attends the school.
Reginald was arrested in 1983 on allegations of being involved with activities of the then banned ANC in the Southern Transvaal and Botswana, along with Andrew Mokone and Vulindlela Mapekula.
The Prep boys were fascinated by the story on Reginald ‘s arrest when he was only 19 years old. Nkosi amused the boys with the story of his trial, how he was transported to and imprisoned on Robben Island and the things he did to keep himself sane.
He concluded his talk by telling the boys that although his time in prison was tough, he had no regrets. Reginald expressed his gratitude for spending time with great minds who shaped who he is today.
Nkwenkwe Nkomo, who spent six years on Robben Island, joined Reginald at the school to show his support.
Deputy head of transformation at the school Dudu Mashele met Reginald at one of the regular parent conversation evenings at St John’s Prep and asked him to share his story with the boys.
“I am delighted at the positive response by the St John’s community to Mr Reginald Nkosi’s visit. It emphasises the importance of us sharing our stories,” said Mashele.
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