Siphelele Nketo
AN annual school debate on the life and legacy of anti-apartheid activist and politician, Alfred Baphethuxolo Nzo, was conducted in Thaba Chicha, Matatiele on Wednesday, June 17.
The intention was to focus on Alfred Nzo’s contributions to politics, social development and education.
The learners from four schools in the Alfred Nzo district presented their topics by highlighting how Alfred Nzo transformed public perceptions and rose to become a respected national leader despite being born and raised in the remote village of Thaba Chicha.
Alfred Nzo District Municipality spokesperson Luncedo Walaza said that the initiative also formed part of a series of programmes held in honour of the late Alfred Nzo, whose birth month is June.
“The programme seeks to preserve his [Alfred Nzo’s] legacy while inspiring young people to uphold the democratic values, leadership qualities and commitment to service that he embodied,” he said. Schools that participated in the debate were: Senyukele Senior Secondary, Mbizana Secondary, Ntabankulu Senior Secondary and Mothibisi Senior Secondary.
Walaza said that the debate session was wrapped up by awarding winners with prizes such as trophies, certificates, printers, laptops and calculators as tokens of appreciation for their hard work and academic excellence.
Walaza said that learners demonstrated their dedication to research and debating skills, saying that debate competitions play a significant role in promoting historical awareness, critical thinking and active citizenship among the youth.
