Nelson Mandela International Day
 

Pupils from all sections of SAHETI School embraced the opportunity to celebrate Nelson Mandela International Day by giving of their time and service to improve the lives of others.

A special assembly was held at the start of the day on Friday 16 July, where the school Chaplain spoke to all the pupils about Nelson Mandela’s unique contribution to the formation of a new South Africa. It was stressed that even after 27 years’ imprisonment, he only had words of forgiveness, reconciliation and looking forward to the future. Also highlighted was Madiba’s role as a humanitarian and concern for fellow man, which should inspire us all to create a better world.

     

The Grade 0’s set off early that morning to visit the Mother Teresa Home for orphans and abandoned children, where they entertained the children with musical items and played together in the garden. SAHETI’s preschoolers especially enjoyed holding and interacting with the baby residents of the Home. They took along a donation of milk and teddy bears for all the children.

     
     
     

An enthusiastic group of Primary School pupils left SAHETI for their visit to Kensington Laerskool also on Friday morning, in two busses crammed with gifts of clothing, stationery, colouring-in books and reading material. Their plan was a morning of fun and shared activities, which started with entertaining the hosts with Greek song and dance items. The fun continued with the building of miniature rocking chairs as demonstrated by a SAHETI staff member, in which pupils from both schools participated, using materials contributed by SAHETI pupils. A nutritious packed lunch for every pupil at Kensington Laerskool was also provided as the pupils of the two schools said their goodbyes at the end of a memorable day.

     
     
     
     

The High School’s Outreach Committee hosted residents of Kids Haven - a home which cares for orphans and children in need - on Sunday 18 July at SAHETI. The programme included netball and soccer coaching, followed by games involving mixed teams of players. The girls also enjoyed making charm bracelets together, which the visitors took away as gifts from the SAHETI pupils. Donations of clothes, shoes, books and sports equipment were handed over, and the day ended with a scrumptious spread provided by the Outreach Committee.

     
     
     
     
Finally, during the service at our school chapel on Sunday 18 July, the theme of the sermon was relevant to the commemoration of Nelson Mandela International Day. In view of the significance of the day, there was a cash collection amounting to R4000, which will be donated to the “Children of Fire”, a charity which helps young survivors of burn injuries.

We believe that these activities helped raise awareness in our pupils of the plight of others and the difference that their involvement can make, not only on Nelson Mandela Day, but whenever an opportunity presents itself.
Click here to read Father Petros' Sermon on Nelson Mandela International day