Noordwyk Secondary School learner makes top 10 in the Nelson Mandela Museum’s Human Rights Essay Competition
An invitation for Grade 10–11 learners to write and submit an essay focusing on Human Rights was extended nationwide, over 700 submissions were received and only ten leaners were chosen.
The Nelson Mandela Museum will be hosting its fifth annual Human Rights Essay Competition, where the top 10 finalists, out of over 700 submissions, will present their essays orally.
The competition is a programme for Grade 10 and 11 learners from public and private schools in South Africa. It aims to encourage learners to think critically, advocate passionately, and develop a culture of human rights.
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Motebele Ramokone, a Grade 11 learner at Noordwyk Secondary School, will be among the top 10 learners who will be competing for the grand prize in Qunu, Eastern Cape, on March 13. The museum will cover the costs of transport and accommodation for the participants and their educators.
Motebele, who is an inspiration to her classmates, said it was a dream come true for her to be in the top 10. “Being able to inspire others, that they can do anything, if only they can put it in mind and work hard. It helped me to be aware that my voice is heard. I have the right to express myself,” said Motebele.
She explained that the competition’s topic was very challenging for her, as she had to put herself, “in the shoes of someone who was once discriminated against because of their sexuality, so that I can have better understanding of the topic and deliver a good essay.”
Nelson Mandela Museum CEO Dr Vuyani Booi said: “We are impressed by the caliber of essays received and the passion showed by the learners in advocating for their human rights.”
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The top three finishers will receive cell phones with a one-year data bundle to help them with their educational research, while all the top 10 participants will receive participation certificates.
Creative arts & ICT head of department at Noordwyk Xolile Samkelisiwe Ntshingila said: “I am hoping that my child takes the cup, and not only the cup but the values that come with being part of such a dignified and character-building project, which she will share with the school at large.”
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Being in the top 10 has given Motebele the confidence that she needed to perfect her writing skills. She will continue to do research on topics which she will be given, at home and even in school, to ensure that her writing skills remain good.
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