Latest news with #NelsonMandelaInternationalDay
TimesLIVE
6 hours ago
- Politics
- TimesLIVE
Mandela Day is for giving back — not just for 67 minutes
In 1970 Robert Greenleaf released an essay entitled, 'The Servant as a Leader'. Greenleaf could hardly have expected to start a revolution in the then fledgling leadership discipline. Of particular interest and intrigue was that Greenleaf had used what ought to have been contradictory terms, namely 'servant' and 'leader' to describe a type of leader. In a nutshell, he argued that the best leaders were those who saw their main task as serving those they had been tasked to lead. This was contrary to the dominant idea at the time that those who lead should lord it over those in their charge. As we this month commemorate Nelson Mandela International Day, or Mandela Day as many of us call it, we are once again reminded of the importance of leaders who place their followers first in the quest to transform the institutions they lead. Former president Mandela may have never described himself in the terms articulated by Greenleaf. Still, it is commonly understood that Mandela personified what it means to dedicate one's life to serving one's people. In fact, in his first public address after being released from prison in 1990, he said: 'I stand here before you not as a prophet but as a humble servant of you, the people.' The number 67 was chosen to reflect the number of years former President Mandela spent in public life and includes the years he was imprisoned as well as his tenure as South Africa's first democratically elected president. It was for this attitude that the UN in 2009 declared Madiba's birthday, July 18, as Nelson Mandela International Day and encouraged everyone to dedicate at least 67 minutes of their time and lives to helping those who needed a hand, and to do so without expecting anything in return. The number 67 was chosen to reflect the number of years former President Mandela spent in public life and includes the years he was imprisoned as well as his tenure as South Africa's first democratically elected president. As has been tradition for the last 15 years, many South African individuals and organisations will identify and choose an institution they can dedicate their 67 minutes of service to, and this is to be strongly encouraged. This year's Mandela Day Theme, 'It is still in our hands to combat poverty and inequality', is consistent with the three priorities of the government of national unity (GNU). The education sector, especially the higher education and training sector, is well placed to play an active role in combating poverty and inequality. Mandela himself reminded us that 'education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world'. As someone with executive oversight over the department of higher education and training (DHET) as well as its entities, I see this potential to change the world every day. Education is never an end but rather a means to an end, which is to meaningfully integrate the educated person into the economy and improve their lives and those of their loved ones. I am also acutely aware of the challenges the sector faces. Some of the challenges are systemic in nature and will not be overcome overnight. These include the gaps in funding for tuition and for the provision of adequate bed space for students. We also have the real challenge that some of our Sector Education and Training Authorities (Setas) being more likely to make news for poor governance and unethical behaviour than for having the positive impact in combating poverty and inequality. The two reports released by the commission for gender equality (CGE) last year further highlighted the prevalence of sexual harassment and GBV in the post-school education and training (PSET) system. While all the above-mentioned are equally urgent, if I were to single out another area of our PSET system that needs more urgent attention than others, it would be the Community Education and Training (CET) colleges. These are offshoots of the former Adult Basic Education and Training (Abet) centres. CET students best embody what Madiba said about education having the potential to change the world. Yet they remain what I often refer to as the 'stepchild of the stepchild' of the higher education sector. They receive about 2% of the DHET total budget to share across 200 community learning centres and their nearly 1,600 satellite centres where teaching and learning take place. What is more concerning is that bulk of their annual funding goes to salaries, leaving very little for other needs such as infrastructure. Many CET colleges are hosted in schools owned by the department of basic education because they do not have facilities of their own. This is itself a disincentive for some individuals who do not want to be seen studying in facilities designed for younger children. Another challenge for students attending CETs is that, unlike their counterparts in the PSET system, they do not receive any aid from the National Student Financial Assistance Scheme (NSFAS). Consequently, food insecurity is high and students often choose to forego classes if this clashes with an opportunity to earn a day's wage that can keep hunger at bay. Where food insecurity is high, there tends to be a shortage of hygiene products. This is why I have decided to give my 67 minutes to one of these colleges in Kariega, Eastern Cape that so urgently need our support. That said, we cannot afford to throw our hands up in despair. It will be unMandela-like to do so. Madiba's life is an example of never giving up to the challenges of the day, no matter how insurmountable they might be. As he famously said, 'it always seems impossible until it's done'. The PSET system desperately needs servant leaders. We need men and women who properly appreciate that the education enterprise cannot succeed unless there is collaboration with all areas of society, including the private sector. For it to be done, the PSET sector needs partners. We need leaders like Mandela in local government institutions, traditional leadership authorities, business and non-governmental organisations to each identify how they too can serve in the effort to combat poverty and inequality. Equally, we need leaders within the sector who have the foresight and are open to partnerships and deliberately seek these out to enhance what their own organisations can offer to their stakeholders and to society at large. With more than 100 entities under the DHET ambit and tens of thousands of students in our various institutions of higher education, it can be said with the utmost humility that the sector is too big to fail. On the flipside, the sector's success will have an impact in every home, workplace and in our economy. With our service, we can ensure that we are the side of making the sector succeed.
Arab Times
a day ago
- Politics
- Arab Times
Commemoration of Nelson Mandela International Day 2025: South African Mission in the State of Kuwait
KUWAIT CITY, July 29: The South African Embassy in the State of Kuwait successfully commemorated Nelson Mandela International Day on 20 July 2025 with a meaningful visit to the Public Authority for Manpower (PAM) women's shelter in the Jleeb Al-Shuyoukh area, which supports expatriate workers facing legal or employment-related challenges. Led by Ms. Busisiwe Mpungose, Acting Head of Mission, the visit was held in collaboration with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MoFA), specifically the Human Rights and Africa Affairs Departments, and PAM, reflecting Mandela's enduring values of kindness, care, and humanity. The event honoured Nelson Mandela International Day, celebrated annually on July 18. The Embassy staff was warmly received by officials from MoFA's Human Rights Department and representatives of PAM. During the tour, Ms Mpungose and Embassy staff were briefed on intake procedures and the operational roles of the various governmental institutions supporting the shelter. The delegation observed the wide range of services provided to residents, including legal aid, healthcare, psychological counselling, and social support. PAM officials shared insightful information about the shelter's residents and responded to questions from Ms. Mpungose and Embassy staff. In a spirit of engagement and solidarity, the South African Embassy dedicated 67 minutes, in tribute to Mandela Day, to acts of positivity and social support, including interactive activities with the residents, such as arts and crafts, indoor billiards, and outdoor volleyball, all aimed at promoting unity and well-being of the residents. As part of the initiative, the Embassy generously also donated clothing items to the shelter to help meet the needs of the residents. Ms Mpungose commended the Government of the State of Kuwait for its ongoing commitment to protecting vulnerable individuals and reaffirmed South Africa's dedication to advancing Mandela's legacy of service and humanity. She concluded by extending warm wishes to His Highness the Amir, Sheikh Meshal Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah, and His Highness the Crown Prince, Sheikh Sabah Al-Khaled Al-Hamad Al-Mubarak Al-Sabah, and continued peace and prosperity to the State of Kuwait. Ms Mpungose and the Embassy staff expressed their sincere admiration for the shelter's resolute staff and their commitment to providing protection, care, and legal support to vulnerable women. The Mission extended heartfelt thanks to PAM, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, and all staff involved for their hospitality and tireless efforts in upholding the values of human dignity and compassion. History Of The Nelson Mandela International Day and the 67 Minutes Nelson Mandela International Day was officially declared by the United Nations on November 10, 2009, recognising Nelson Mandel's extraordinary contribution to peace, freedom, and human rights. The day is celebrated annually on July 18th, Mandela's birthday. This day encourages people around the world to honour Mandela's legacy by taking action to improve their communities an promote social justice. The concept of 67 minutes symbolically represents the 67 years of Nelson Mandela's life dedicated for fighting for equality, social justice and human rights. On Mandela Day, individuals are expected to spend at least 67 minutes doing something positive for others, reflecting Mandela's lifelong dedication to making the world a better place.
Kuwait Times
2 days ago
- General
- Kuwait Times
Embassy of S Africa marks Mandela Day with message of unity
KUWAIT: The South African Embassy in Kuwait commemorated Nelson Mandela International Day with a special visit to the Public Authority for Manpower (PAM) women's shelter in Jleeb Al-Shuyoukh. Led by Acting Head of Mission Busisiwe Mpungose, the embassy team dedicated 67 minutes, reflecting Mandela's 67 years of public service to engaging with the shelter's residents through various sports and recreational activities. These included indoor billiards and outdoor volleyball, designed to promote teamwork, unity, and well-being among the women. During her remarks, Acting head of mission at the South African Embassy to Kuwait, Busisiwe Mpungose paid tribute to Nelson Mandela's legacy, calling on all to take action, inspire change, and make a lasting difference in the lives of others. She added: 'It is truly an honor for us at the Embassy of the Republic of South Africa to be here with you today,' the Ambassador began, acknowledging the significance of the day and its alignment with the enduring values championed by the late President Mandela. Quoting Mandela's powerful words—'It is in your hands to make our world a better one for all, especially the poor, vulnerable, and marginalized'—the ambassador underscored the relevance of the message in today's global context. 'This message is more relevant than ever,' she noted, 'reminding us that the responsibility to create more than just a better world lies within each of us.' The ambassador extended sincere gratitude to the Kuwaiti government and its institutions for their steadfast support and humanitarian efforts. She praised their work with local shelters and their commitment to empowering vulnerable individuals during difficult times, calling their dedication 'a true reflection of Madiba's vision.' Speaking directly to those residing in shelters, the ambassador offered words of encouragement: 'Your strength and determination have kept you going. We stand here to encourage you to remain hopeful for the brighter days ahead.' She went on to emphasize that Mandela Day is not merely about remembering a historic figure, but about embodying his values of unity, compassion, and service to others. 'Whether it's supporting a local charity, helping those affected by disaster, or simply showing kindness in our daily lives—every small action contributes to building a better world,' she said. The ambassador conveyed well-wishes for good health and continued success to His Highness the Amir Sheikh Meshal Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah and His Highness the Crown Prince Sheikh Sabah Al-Khaled Al-Hamad Al-Sabah, along with hopes for enduring peace and prosperity for the Kuwaiti nation. During the visit, the delegation also received briefings on the shelter's important services such as legal aid, healthcare, and psychological support. To further assist the residents, the embassy generously donated clothing. Mpungose expressed deep admiration for the shelter staff's commitment to protecting and supporting vulnerable women and extended sincere thanks to PAM and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs for their collaboration and hospitality. The visit underscored the Embassy's dedication to Mandela's values of kindness, care, and community empowerment.
The Citizen
4 days ago
- General
- The Citizen
WATCH: Here is how Albertonians celebrated and honoured Mandela Day
WATCH: Here is how Albertonians celebrated and honoured Mandela Day The United Nations General Assembly's 42nd plenary session met on November 10, 2009, in New York to consider calls from the 46664 concerts and the Nelson Mandela Foundation to officially recognise International Mandela Day. In adopting the resolution, the Assembly stated: 'The long history of Nelson Rolihlahla Mandela's leading role in and support for Africa's struggle for liberation and Africa's unity, and his outstanding contribution to the creation of a non-racial, non-sexist, democratic South Africa, the Assembly decides to designate July 18 as Nelson Mandela International Day, to be observed each year beginning in 2010.' Since then, billions around the world honour Mandela Day by committing to 67 minutes of public good in recognition of Nelson Mandela's 67 years of fighting for social justice. 'We would be honoured if such a day can serve to bring people together around the world to fight poverty and promote peace, reconciliation and cultural diversity,' reads a statement issued on Mandela's behalf. Mandela Day is not an international public holiday but a day to honour the legacy and values of South Africa's former president through volunteering and community service. On July 18, residents of Alberton, including local businesses, schools, faith and welfare groups, and other public organisations, celebrated by doing their part to observe Mandela's 67 years of service to humanity. From blanket donations and mobile soup kitchens to caring for the elderly and providing food to those in need, Alberton's spirit of humanity was on full display. The Alberton Record was there to capture these heartwarming moments.
The Citizen
20-07-2025
- Politics
- The Citizen
Pandor calls on leaders to be good 'troublemakers' like Madiba
Pandor reflected on Mandela's life, his values, and the kind of world he envisioned. Former International Relations Minister Naledi Pandor delivering the keynote address at the official UN commemoration of Nelson Mandela International Day in New York on Friday. Picture: Nelson Mandela Foundation. As South Africans marked Nelson Mandela Day on Friday, former International Relations Minister Naledi Pandor called on world leaders to follow in the steps of Madiba by being 'good troublemakers.' Pandor delivered the keynote address at the official UN commemoration of Nelson Mandela International Day in New York on Mandela Day. 'Mandela a troublemaker' Speaking in her role as the chairperson of the Nelson Mandela Foundation, Pandor reflected on Mandela's life, his values, and the kind of world he envisioned. 'While we all, with great affection, refer to President Mandela's first name as 'Nelson', the name that he was actually given at birth was 'Rolihlahla'. In isiXhosa, which was Mandela's mother tongue, the colloquial meaning of Rolihlahla is 'troublemaker''. She explained that while 'Rolihlahla' directly meant 'shake the tree', the isiXhosa name given to Madiba was 'troublemaker.' 'Mandela was a troublemaker. The kind of good troublemaker that we need more of in the world today, and the kind that we will continue to need well into the future. The kind of troublemaker that some people did not always love because he pushed for an equality that we should all enjoy and for the overcoming of a system of oppression which was called convenient and profitable to some,' said Pandor. As South Africans marked Nelson Mandela Day on Friday, former International Relations Minister Naledi Pandor called on world leaders to follow in the steps of Madiba by being 'good troublemakers.' #MandelaDay @TheCitizen_News — 𝙵𝚊𝚒𝚣𝚎𝚕 𝙿𝚊𝚝𝚎𝚕 ⚡️ (@FaizelPatel143) July 20, 2025 ALSO READ: 'They never stopped' – Naledi Pandor continues to receive threats 'Fierce man' Pandor said Mandela was a fierce man on matters of justice. 'He pushed for a kind of equality and the overcoming of a system of oppression that was convenient and profitable to some, a system that was defeated in South Africa, but which has yet to be eradicated globally.' SA's freedom Pandor told guests, including United Nations (UN) Secretary General António Guterres, about the role the UN played in South Africa's struggle for freedom. 'The United Nations steered us to freedom, stood against apartheid domination not through arms, but through bringing its undeniable moral weight into combat against injustice. That boldness, that courage is needed more and more today, and we hope as we remember and honour President Mandela, we recall his words, 'It is in your hands.' What would Madiba say? Pandor said the Nelson Mandela Foundation, which she now chairs, often gets asked what Mandela would say or do on certain issues if he were alive today. 'We, too, ask this question of ourselves. In the context of my call here today, the question arises – What kind of world would he be prepared to make good trouble for? Drawing on his life and work, and personal reflections, we believe that it would be a just world. 'A world where justice does not kneel to the rich and powerful; where our collective upliftment takes precedence over individual privilege; where the benefits and burdens of our society are equally shared; where our privilege and personal biases do not sway us from being just; and where our like or dislike of someone does not hinder us from doing what is right in relation to them. This is the kind of world that we need to make good trouble for,' Pandor said. ALSO READ: WATCH: 'SA showing world we have embraced constitutional democracy' − Pandor
