Observance of Nelson Mandela International Day across the classes

“What counts in life is not the mere fact that we have lived. It is what difference we have made to the lives of others that will
determine the significance of the life we lead.” - Nelson Mandela

Nelson Mandela International Day is celebrated each year on 18 July. On 16 July 2021, our young Foundationers observed the day by remembering a man of quiet dignity and towering achievement who worked tirelessly for peace and humanity. Renewing the values of determination and equality, all class levels participated enthusiastically in special activities on the occasion.

Students of Pre-school engaged in an online class where they were told about the former South African President. They were shown a short video on his life - " A lesson of Forgiveness" where they learnt that to forgive someone is  a tough, but by doing so one is relieved of a burden off one's shoulders. It sets one free from the yoke of hatred.

The students of Pre-Primary level discussed the contributions of Mahatma Gandhi and Mandela. During the virtual class, the little ones were told about the sacrifices made by both the stalwarts. Later, children also drew a picture of the Charkha.

Students of class 1 were shown a short video on the life of Mandela and told about how the great leader stood for his nation and his people. The students also uploaded a 1-minute video on Flipgrid describing the contribution that they dream of making for their country and society when they grow up.

Students of class 2 were shown videos related to the life of Nelson Mandela. They made posters by pasting his pictures
and writing messages on handprints to show that everyone can change the world for the better. They also described what all they can do to make this world a better place to live in.

The students of class 3 conducted a short assembly to observe the occasion. They spoke a few lines about the great contribution of Mandela. They recited the poem ‘ Invictus’ by William Ernest Henry and other poems in both Hindi and English. The assembly concluded with a motivational song sung by a few students.

To celebrate the accomplishments and the struggle for equality, the students of classes 4 and 5 sketched Nelson Mandela along with a quote by him. Videos relating to his long journey to freedom were shown followed by a classroom discussion. The students cited the various ways in which they could also contribute to their society.

Students of classes 6-8 discussed the struggles of Mandela against apartheid and how he created a movement against
discrimination and colonialism. They attempted an activity wherein they listed the similarities between Nelson Mandela and Mahatma Gandhi.

Mandela Day is a global call to action that celebrates the idea that each individual has the power to transform the world, the ability to make an impact. These manifold activities filled the young minds with an urge to promote the welfare of the country and its people and build a safer and more humane society.