The team of students from the Reading Lab on the North-West University’s (NWU’s) campus in Mahikeng spent their 67 minutes in honour of Mandela Day on 18 July 2017 by putting smiles on the faces of the less fortunate children of the Legae la Thuto Day Care Centre.

The centre, managed by Ms Mosadiphuthego, is located in Extension 39 in Mahikeng. This centre is one of many in the area that cares for children from poverty stricken homes, children living with disabilities and HIV/AIDS-affected children from the community. It also offers early learning tuition to children – many of whom depend on social grants.

As part of their initiative, the Reading Lab team handed over food parcels and stationery to the centre. They also spent some time with the children, painting faces and closed the day off on a high note.

“This is truly a blessing for us as a small centre that attempts to respond to the socio-economic needs of the community’s children,” said the overjoyed Ms Mosadiphuthego. “At times it can be hard, as the centre often runs out of resources to offer the proper care the children need. I am truly grateful. Thank you to the team and the university.”

“The pay-off line of the university reads ‘It all starts here’,” said Ms Nomasomi Morule, manager of the campus’s Academic Development Centre. “Keeping this in mind we, as an institution, focus on grooming the young ones from an early age, as they are the leaders of tomorrow. In so doing, we teach them to respect their elders, the environment and dream about a better future.”

Mandela Day[11]  is an annual international day in honour of former South African president, Nelson Mandela, celebrated each year on 18 July.

Students from the Reading Lab with children from the Legae La Bana Day Care Centre.