Pupils from the Duinesig High School at Walvis Bay joined the rest of the world in celebrating the International Day of the African Child, normally celebrated on 16 June, before going for their holidays.
The event took place at the assembly point with pupils doing different activities, from poetry about the day, dramas that portray the story behind the day and dances relating to the messages brought forth by the poems and drama.
The event was hosted in line with this year’s theme: ‘Education for all children in Africa: the time is now’.
The aim of the event was to enlighten pupils on what the day is all about, as well as the importance of the day in particular.
Pupils learned about the story behind the International Day of the African Child, namely the Soweto children’s uprising of 1976, which was demonstrated in the drama.
They also learned about the significance of the day and the impact it had on Africa as a whole.
During the event, school headboy Eljero Snyders spoke about how the story of the Soweto uprising teaches them that nothing is impossible in life.
He said they stood up and fought for what was right, even though it seemed impossible for people of their age.
Snyders spoke about the importance of the day and how it reminds pupils that no matter the age or circumstances, young people must put their mind to something.
“The day and the message brought forth by the story behind it, is a great form of encouragement and motivation for young people to pursue their goals and overcome any obstacles that come their way,” says Snyders, adding that young people should celebrate this day because history plays an important role in their lives today.
“I am overjoyed about this theme, as the problem of children not having a form of education has been a big problem in Namibia and Africa as a whole and I’m glad to see that something is being done about it.
“No matter how big the boulder in your life is or how weak or vulnerable you feel, you always have the strength overcome the obstacles that pester you in life,” says Snyders.
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