20 July 2013

Mandela Day at new heights

Submitted by: Esquire Technologies
The Mandela Day, celebrated at the N’ wa-mhinga Primary School, inAtteridgeville, Pretoria, also saw the feeding at the soup kitchen, the planting of a vegetable garden, setting up a soccer and netball field, re-painting and renovating the sick bay – and, finally, the handing out of gifts to 650 school children jointly by Esquire Technologies and The Caring Women’s Forum Pretoria.

Said Asgar Mahomed, MD of Esquire: “We have several charity events which we host throughout the year. This, however, the International Mandela day, is one of the most heart-felt for us.”

Much has been said about the health of Nelson Mandela as he recovers, in hospital, on his 95th birthday, but leading computer distributor, Esquire Technologies, led the way at the 50th anniversary at a school, in Attridgeville,Pretoria.

Speaking at the event, attended by two of Mandela’s grandchildren, was Mr. Ahmed Kathrada (84)– a former political prisoner and an anti Apartheid activist –who was in prison for more than 20 years.

Kathrada said Mandela left  “a compelling legacy”:, one that was a beacon in the “unrelenting change in political and social policies in South Africa”.

He said that the country’s education was vitally important and, without a good education system, the country could “not go forth”. He noted that one of Mandela’s prime focuses was on children, and on education. “We need experts in every field,”, said Kathrada.

With the demise of Apartheid every day is now “an open day” for South African children- and it is a chance to be seized, he said.

The Mandela Day, celebrated at the N’ wa-mhinga Primary School, inAtteridgeville, Pretoria, also saw the feeding at the soup kitchen, the planting of a vegetable garden, setting up a soccer and netball field, re-painting and renovating the sick bay – and, finally, the  handing out of gifts to 650 school children – all jointly done by Esquire Technologies and The Caring Women’s Forum Pretoria.

Said Asgar Mahomed, MD of Esquire: “We have several charity events which we host throughout the year. This, however,  The International Mandela day is one of the most heart-felt for us.”

The Deputy Minister of Basic Education, Mr. Enver Surty,  said he “took heart” knowing that more than 12 million school children would be celebrating Mandela’s 95th birthday around the country by praying for his speedy recovery.Surty said that among the aims of this year’s birthday celebration was to wish Mandela’s full recovery, as well as to celebrate his birthday. Commenting further, Surty said it is remarkable that Mandela Day has been recognised by the United Nations –making Mandela the only person on the planet to be lauded in such a manner by the esteemed United Nations.

He added that Mandela had inspired the country and that one school, every week, will be delivered in the Eastern Cape over the next few years, including computer rooms and libraries.

“We want to roll out two schools, where needed, ultimately, in SA, every two weeks. Mandela’s message was all about education – this is part of his legacy”, said Surty.

Published in Science and Education