Johannesburg, 22 Jul 2013
This Mandela Day, celebrated at the N' wa-mhinga Primary School, in Atteridgeville, Pretoria, included feeding at the soup kitchen, the planting of a vegetable garden, setting up a soccer and netball field, repainting and renovating the sick bay - and, finally - handing out 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 heartfelt 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 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 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 Deputy Minister of Basic Education, 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 among the aims of this year's birthday celebration was to wish for 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.
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