Mondeor Primary to commemorate their African heritage

JOHANNESBURG SOUTH – Mondeor Primary learners recently had the opportunity to learn how to embrace their African heritages and to say no to xenophobia. Mr David Makhura (Gauteng Premier), Mr Panyaza Lesufi (Gauteng MEC for Education), together with other dignitaries commemorated Africa Day at Mondeor Primary School on May 25.

Ward 54 Clr Sergio Dos Santos, LeadSA representatives, Yusuf Abramjee and Catherine Constantinides joined the government officials to teach Mondeor Primary School pupils about the importance of knowing their African heritage. Another extremely important message was conveyed to the learners regarding the recent xenophobic attacks in the province.

During the event, Grade Seven pupils were selected to recite poems chosen by their teachers and the ‘I am an African’ speech by Thabo Mbeki.

Makhura told the children that the government is glad they are learning and playing together. He also said that they were investing in the infrastructure and turning Gauteng schools into schools of the future through technology. Makhura addressed attendees saying, “We are here to reclaim our Africanness. It must never matter where you are born, what is important is the impact you have on the world.”

Lesufi said he wanted to assure learners that they are the future who will bring positive change. “You are the future who will solve our problems. The only time we will attack other Africans is through Bafana Bafana because then we want to win,” said Lesufi.

The week of May 25 to May 29 was officially declared Africa Week in South Africa.

Gauteng schools were requested to implement an Africa Week programme by conducting school assemblies for all pupils pupils to attend; observing a moment of silence at the assembly in remembrance of those who lost their lives during the attacks; and all learners to recite the African Union Anthem as part of an education programme.