The Annual Mandela-Sobukwe Leadership Camp 2024 in Cape Town, led by Deputy Minister of Higher Education, Science, and Innovation, Mr. Buti Manamela, was a transformative experience bringing together 130 young leaders from all 26 public universities, 50 public TVET colleges, and 10 community colleges, selected through Higher Health’s Peer Educator Program. The Camp was a melting pot of ideas, passion, and potential.
The hike up Table Mountain on Day 3, wasn’t just a physical challenge; it was a powerful symbol of Mandela’s enduring spirit and his unwavering dedication to the fight for freedom.
Deputy Minister, Mr. Buti Manamela, also led the students on an eye-opening educational excursion to the Robben Island Museum World Heritage Site. This visit aimed to immerse the young leaders in the hardships and struggles endured by icons like Mandela and Sobukwe during their incarceration on the island. The students gained a profound understanding of the sacrifices made for freedom and equality in South Africa. It was a humbling experience that emphasized the importance of perseverance, resilience, and the pursuit of justice.
20-year old Vanessa Mathuli, a 2nd year Nautical Engineering student from Durban University of Technology extended a huge thanks to Higher Health and the Deputy Minister of Higher Education, Science and Innovation, Mr Buti Manamela for spearheading this incredible initiative and for his visionary leadership!
As a student and peer educator, she’s gained invaluable insights into leadership at this Camp hosted by Higher Health and couldn’t wait to share them with 10 other students.
She further added that, “This camp has truly opened my eyes to the power of leadership and the impact we can have on those who need it most. I am excited to continue learning from Higher Health and the best leaders here at this Camp, including Buti Manamela himself!
On Day 4, Ms. Nonhlanhla Nkosi, Provincial Coordinator at Higher Health for KwaZulu-Natal, shared invaluable insights on the Civic Education curriculum designed by Higher Health. From there, student leaders were empowered to dive into group discussions on five crucial topics, gearing up to advise the Deputy Minister.
With/Student Leaders, the event was a beacon of inspiration and collaboration. During the Group Work sessions, the 130 passionate Peer Educators from Universities, TVET Colleges and Community Colleges delved into pivotal topics, advising the Deputy Minister on critical issues:
- Civic Education and Civic Values
- Societal Changes
- Gender Based Violence (GBV)
- Mental Health
- Saving Democracy, Social Cohesion, and Inclusivity
The insights and solutions generated during these discussions are seeds for a brighter future, empowering our youth to lead with compassion, resilience, and vision.