HONOURING NELSON MANDELA: OUR GREATEST TREASURE IS OUR CHILDREN.

A major part of the life of Nelson Mandela, a legendary figure in the struggle against apartheid and a symbol of justice and equality, was devoted to the welfare of children. His committed campaign for advancing children’s rights was motivated by his belief that youth can create a better future. Raising awareness of education as a powerful tool for social change, Mandela’s legacy continues to inspire movements around the world that work to improve children’s lives. This article examines Mandela’s lasting influence on children’s rights and education, showcasing current projects that uphold his principles.

MANDELA’S DEVOTION TO CHILDREN’S RIGHTS, EDUCATION AND PROTECTION

Mandela’s dedication to children’s rights and their education was unwavering. His commitment is evident in his actions and the organisations he established. In 1995 Mandela founded the Nelson Mandela Children’s Fund, this organisation was aimed to improve the lives of children in South Africa. The fund focused on providing health care, education and support to vulnerable children, including those affected by HIV/ AIDS, poverty and violence. Mandela believed that education was a fundamental right for all children. He believed in giving children a voice and ensuring their well-being and his belief is reflected in the work of the Nelson Mandela Children’s Fund which strives to give voice and dignity to African Children. He saw the importance of access to quality education in breaking the cycle of poverty and inequality. 

MANDELA’S EFFORTS TO COMBAT CHILD POVERTY AND INEQUALITY

His commitment to combating child poverty and inequality was equally profound. He believed that overcoming poverty was not just a task of charity but an act of justice. One of the greatest acts he did for the poor children of South Africa, was donating one-third of his presidential salary to the Nelson Mandela Children’s Fund. He realised that nation-building was impossible in the face of gross poverty and inequality. As the former president of South Africa, he made efforts to ensure that all children, regardless of their background, had equal rights to education as he believed that education was a very powerful tool that could empower children and society. 

In 1999, he founded the Nelson Mandela Foundation which aims to drive conversation on critical social issues that people face including early childhood development they believe that this is a step toward a just and equitable society if treated as an urgent and fundamental issue. Mandela’s legacy continues to inspire young people and his fight against discrimination and his commitment to justice and equality serves as a powerful example for children and the youth. 

CONTINUING MANDELA’S LEGACY THROUGH ADVOCACY AND ACTIVISM 

As Nelson Mandela said, “As long as poverty, inequality, and discrimination exist, none of us can truly rest.” On Mandela Day, we honour his legacy by continuing his fight for a better world. As UNICEF UJ volunteers, we are committed to advocating for the rights and well-being of children, empowering them to become change-makers in their own communities. We recognize that children are the future leaders, innovators, and citizens of the world, and It is our responsibility to ensure they have the necessary support and resources to thrive.

EMPOWERING THE YOUTH TO BECOME CHANGE-MAKERS 

Through volunteerism, we empower young people to become leaders and change-makers in their communities. By supporting education, healthcare, and protection initiatives, we give hope to the hopeless and empower young people to break the cycles of poverty and inequality. We believe that every child deserves access to quality education, healthcare, and protection from harm. By providing these essential services, we equip children with the skills, knowledge, and confidence to become active citizens and change-makers in their communities. 

PROMOTING QUALITY EDUCATION AND LITERACY INITIATIVES

Nelson Mandela believed that education was an effective means of bringing about social change. His vision has inspired numerous global initiatives to advance literacy and education, especially among areas with limited resources. UNICEF UJ volunteers work to ensure that all children have access to high-quality education as well as a secure, healthy environment in which to develop and flourish. The goal of UNICEF-UJ’s educational initiatives is to give every child access to high-quality education. UNICEF-UJ supports laws that uphold and advance the rights of children. UNICEF-UJ works nonstop to guarantee that every child at our limited reach, has the chance to fulfil their potential and realise their rights through these and other programmes. 

Mandela Day is a powerful reminder of the enduring legacy of the late Nelson Mandela, whose dedication to justice, equality, and human dignity continues to inspire millions around the world. It is a day to reflect on his remarkable contributions and be inspired to act in our communities to create change, even if it is just for 67 minutes on this day. As we embody the spirit of Mandela’s vision, the UNICEF-UJ Volunteer Club has an unwavering commitment to children’s rights. Through its tireless efforts in education, healthcare, poverty alleviation, and child protection, UNICEF is not only honouring Mandela’s legacy but also actively working towards creating a brighter future for children around the world. As we celebrate 18 July, let us remember that each small act of kindness is a step toward a positive change.

By: Masali Outtara, Thandiswa Ngolothi, Hlalani Mdunge, Thaboeteng Ncube