Deputy Minister in the Presidency Kenny Morolong has issued a fervent call to South African communities to stand as guardians of schools, protecting them against the scourge of vandalism. Morolong’s plea comes amidst a backdrop of concern over the safety and security of educational institutions across the nation.
Morolong emphasized the crucial role that communities play in preserving the integrity of schools during a recent event at Mosikare Secondary School in Mantsa village, Mahikeng. Speaking at a ceremony marking the donation of books by the Government Communication and Information System (GCIS), Morolong stressed the significance of instilling a sense of responsibility towards educational infrastructure among citizens.
“As government, we are calling on our communities to take ownership of their schools,” Morolong stated passionately. He underscored the importance of nurturing an environment conducive to learning, emphasizing the need to empower learners to realize their full potential through education.
Encouraging a culture of reading among South African youth was also a focal point of Morolong’s address. “There is a pressing need to urge our learners to embrace the habit of reading,” he asserted. In line with this commitment, Morolong announced government’s intention to collaborate with the private sector in donating books to schools, aiming to bolster resources for educational institutions nationwide.
Acknowledging the pivotal role of libraries in fostering social cohesion, Morolong highlighted the ongoing South African Library Week (SALW) 2024 celebrations. With the theme “Libraries Foster Social Cohesion,” SALW aims to spotlight the pivotal role that libraries play in uniting diverse communities. Libraries serve as vital hubs where individuals from all walks of life converge to exchange ideas, engage in cultural activities, and pursue intellectual endeavors.
Tebogo Selomane, Principal of Mosikare Secondary School, expressed gratitude for the donation of books, emphasizing their instrumental role in motivating and supporting learners. Selomane seized the opportunity to appeal for further support from government entities and officials, stressing the importance of collective efforts in advancing educational objectives.
Established in 2007, Mosikare Secondary School serves as a beacon of learning within its community. Classified under Quintile 1, the school operates as a Section 21 institution, relying on government allocations for its operational needs. Selomane’s call for assistance resonated with local leaders, with the Mayor of the Ngaka Modiri District pledging to donate school shoes to alleviate the students’ needs.
The imperative to enhance literacy levels in South Africa has been a focal point of national discourse, echoed by President Cyril Ramaphosa during the 2019 State of the Nation Address. Recognizing the intrinsic link between literacy and socio-economic development, the President’s call to action underscores the urgency of prioritizing literacy initiatives nationwide.
In line with the Presidential reading initiative, GCIS continues its commitment to empowering communities through literacy programs. Through targeted book donations and support for community libraries, GCIS endeavors to foster a culture of reading and lifelong learning among South Africans.
As South Africa commemorates South African Library Week, the nation reaffirms its commitment to promoting literacy, education, and social cohesion. By safeguarding schools, nurturing a culture of reading, and fostering community engagement, South Africa charts a course towards a brighter, more prosperous future for all its citizens.
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