![](https://images.caxton.co.za/wp-content/uploads/sites/33/2015/05/GUGU21CHARITY.jpg)
Oratile Matlapeng, on behalf of Varsity College Sandton, said the Hero for a Day event is one of the college’s community engagement initiatives aimed at instilling a sense of good citizenship in its greater student body.
Read about Varsity College Sandton’s previous charity initiatives
He said the boys, aged six and upwards, were honoured for the courage they continue to show in their challenging circumstances. Some of the challenging circumstances experienced by these children include being orphaned and vulnerable.
Varsity College Sandton student relations manager, Vasanthee Govender said, “These young boys are so brave and courageous, they deserved a fun day out. The boys really fit into the Hero for a Day theme. The day was rewarding and selfless for the Varsity College Sandton students and staff members alike.”
Matlapeng added that the excursion included an educational talk on animals and introduced the boys to the tiger, leopard, chimpanzee and lion cubs.
“The boys had a great adventure and demonstrated their courage by ending their guided tour touching and petting some of the dangerous ambassador animals,” said Matlapeng.
He said these included a 25-year-old owl, a bearded dragon and snakes. Then, after lunch, each boy was honoured with a gold hero medal for a great demonstration of their strength and courage.