After one day of rest and becoming accustomed to the city, we officially began our study. Today, we visited two high schools, Zonnebloem NEST (New Era Schools Trust) and Fairmount, and the University of Western Cape. At each high school, we were introduced to the history and philosophy by the principal, we discussed the present challenges and hopes with the staff members, and we visited class rooms to talk with students about their opinions of education, their personal experiences, and their hopes for the future.
At the University of Western Cape we were able to attend a lecture by one professor, Harold Hermann, Vice President of United Nations Association. He provided a great overview of the history of education during and after apartheid, as well as insights as to the challenges to create a South African system which supports all citizens equally. We also spent some time conversing with University students following the lecture.
A lot of information was provided today, giving us a great foundation for further inqueries. If today is any indication, our journey will be extremely successful.
- Karla Meier
The students today at the two high schools and the University of Western Cape impressed me deeply. Although these students face many challenges finding employment or financial stability in South Africa, they have high aspirations for their futures. At Zonnebloem, for example, many students are interested in the dramatic arts, specifically becoming actors, directors, or screenwriters. In addition, one boy in a 10th grade class told us his life and future is poetry. Others had very specific interests in civil engineering, human resource management, accounting, and child psychology.
The university students we interacted with were well informed about the struggles of the past and the future challenges they face to overcome the legacy of apartheid. Their eloquence and enthusiasm motived me to think more critically about my own education.
- Emily Haghighi
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3 comments:
Hi All
Wow...what a terrific opportunity. Looking forward to reading your thoughts as this trip progresses! Stay safe, learn alot...keep posting!
Best
Ted Lowe
Friday 3 August 2007 10:45 pm New York - Saturday 4 August 2007 4:45 am Cape Town
Hello Prof. Thomas, Emily, Haruyuki Orpheus, Wandile and Karla,
Thanks so much for sharing your experience. It is wonderful to hear your impressions-- fresh and from your hearts. Please know that your efforts are appreciated and will create a bridge across the many miles between the U.S. and South Africa. I will be reading your blogs daily and sharing your experiences with many other people. It's fascinating to hear that so many students are interested in pursuing the arts. It's encouraging to learn that these young people, despite their country's painful history, are able to look to their future with hope and enthusiasm-- confident in the value of their own creativity.
I look forward to your next blog!
Best Regards,
Somell Richards
(Dad says "hey" Orf)
Hello everyone. What a wonderful experience you all are having. This will be etched in your memories for ever.
Emily, I was especially excited to hear how students are interested in the arts. President Ikeda is always saying that the arts are essential for a great society.
One of my favorite quotes is from President John Adams --
"
John Adams:
I must study politics and war that my sons may have liberty to study mathematics and philosophy. My sons ought to study mathematics and philosophy, geography, natural history, naval architecture, navigation, commerce and agriculture in order to give their children a right to study painting, poetry, music, architecture, statuary, tapestry, and porcelain."
Have a safe trip, and I continue to look forward to hearing about your experiences.
Charlotte Surkin, NYC, SGI member and singing teacher.
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