Spark Cresta school organised a voting station for the learners, the same as during government elections.
The learners stand in queues with their self-made ID cards excited for the experience. They experienced it all at the station from ID checks, and ink on the thumb to the ballot boxes with Independent Electoral Commission (IEC) officials guarding and explaining the process.
Instead of political parties, the scholars had to choose between four options, the talent show, movie day, colour run and a water festival. Whichever wins will be organised for the learners to enjoy.
Principal Job Bonsu explained that these events prepare learners to become active citizens and autonomous individuals who are conscious of their role in voting and the potential this has on their pending future.
“They were very eager to be participating in the voting process and having a voice. They need to experience this at an early age as it provides them with a chance to learn and understand how the voting system works in South Africa.”
He added that the people from the IEC made the event seem real. “The event was a great success, and the learners were very excited to get a feel of what it is like to vote.”
The school held the voting day every year in April or May to celebrate Freedom Day and educate the learners on their civil rights of voting as responsible citizens.
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