UNIC celebrates Nelson Mandela Day - 18 July 2011

Joining in the global festivities to celebrate Nelson Mandela's 93rd birthday, the UN Information Centre for India and Bhutan (UNIC), in collaboration with the South African High Commission, Gandhi Peace Foundation, India International Centre and Working Group on Alternative Strategies, marked Nelson Mandela International Day on 18 July.




Around 300 children from nine schools across Delhi paid an artistic tribute to 'Madiba', as Mr. Mandela is fondly known, by presenting a painting exhibit, songs and dances celebrating Mr. Mandela's life and work.




South African freedom fighter Ahmed Kathrada, who was Mr. Mandela's close friend, associate and fellow prisoner at Robben Island prison, was a special guest on the occasion, along with his wife and former South African Minister of Public Enterprise and Health Barbara Hogan and Minister-Counsellor at the South African High Commission in New Delhi, Debora Balatseng. Addressing his young audience, Mr. Kathrada recalled his days in prison and also described South Africa's experience of apartheid. He urged them to value education and to appreciate and "make use of every opportunity" given to them.




UNIC Director Kiran Mehra-Kerpelman commended the students on the high quality of their paintings for the special Mandela exhibit and their excellent music and dance performances. She also delivered the message of United Nations Secretary-General Ban Ki-Moon commemorating Mandela Day and asking people around the world to perform 67 minutes of public service on that day -- one minute for every year of Mandela's own service to humanity. "The best way we can thank Nelson Mandela for his work," Ms. Mehra-Kerpelman said quoting the Secretary-General, "is by taking action for others and inspiring change."

Video courtesy: Citizens First Television (CFTV)

Category:

News & Politics

Tags:

• UN
• United Nations
• UNIC
• Kiran Mehra-Kerpelman
• Ahmed Kathrada
• Barbara Hogan
• Debora Balatseng
• Suhas Borker
• South Africa
• India International Centre
• Gandhi Peace Foundation

[55neera]

It is very reassuring to observe the enthusiasm of our young generation.Credit goes to the organizers for the initiative in the right direction. Neera

[hjoshi1954]

Fantastic..I really missed the occasion..