Ahmed Kathrada Foundation promotes Freedom Day

In light of Freedom Day, the Houghton Muslim Academy invited the Ahmed Kathrada Foundation to address their foundation phase pupils.

“This week is our proudly South African week and we thought it would be great to get the foundation to address the learners. This will motivate them to be proudly South African,” said Razia Pilodia of the academy.

Sean Moodley of the foundation explained the significance of the day and why struggle activist Kathrada made it his priority to attend on the day. “Today is very important as it deals with children… [who are important] to Kathrada as he did not have interaction with children for the 20 years he was locked up [on Robben Island]. Interaction with children keeps him going,” said Moodley.

He added that, while Kathrada’s passion was children and education, the purpose of the talk was about Freedom Day and promoting respect and tolerance for every race, religion and gender.

“The foundation has been promoting anti-racism and it is of importance to promote education about it and teach the young children that everyone belongs, regardless of their religion, race or gender,” added Pilodia.

Hasan Wadvalla, principal of the academy said, “Today was also about teaching the children some important life skills. It was about teaching them about the context of Freedom Day. And even though we are a Muslim school, we are not a closed off society. We want our children to know other religions, races and genders, and respect them.”

Details: www.kathradafoundation.org