1. 27 April 2004 marks the end of the first decade of democracy and the beginning of the next. It is a time for celebration, thanksgiving and renewed commitment to the vision of a better life for all South Africans and a time to reflect on the progress made since 1994 and the challenges of defending those gains.
2. The WCED and other provincial departments have agreed on a programme of activities ( refer to attached list ) in which the government departments and educational institutions should be involved to participate in the celebrations. The aim of this programme is to reinforce hope and unify all South Africans and the international community in action for a better South Africa, a better Africa and a better world. All educational institutions are encouraged to become actively involved in as many activities as possible.
3. Schools are also encouraged to include ‘Celebrating Ten Years of Democracy‘ in the everyday activities of the school for the whole of the academic year of 2004. Themes involving the following key messages should be used:
  • Celebration of freedom attained, and thanksgiving

  • Pride in our achievements as a nation since 1994, in who we are and what we are becoming

  • Giving recognition to people for their meaningful contribution

  • Forward looking, to further progress, democracy and stability

  • Inclusivity - of all South Africans.

4. To assist schools that do not have resources, the Department of Education will provide each school with a resource pack containing posters of SA’s national symbols, the national anthem, national orders and national institutions. The pack will also contain an activity book for each of the significant days of South African history, guidelines for the activities and a flag of our country.
5. You are respectfully requested to bring the contents of this circular to the attention of the educators, parents/guardians and learners of the school.


SIGNED: R.B. SWARTZ
HEAD: EDUCATION
DATE: 2004:03:24

10-Year Democracy Celebrations: Departmental Activities  (size: 56 KB)