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Schools build national spirit - Newsroom - 03-10-2014
Over 9 000 flags have been given to schools across the country to encourage pride in the national identity among school children.
Arts and Culture Minister Nathi Mthethwa on Thursday said 9 530 flags have been distributed to schools as part of government’s programme to popularise national symbols and to mobilise citizens, especially the youth, to embrace their South African identity.
“The people of South Africa must understand at a young age who they are and where they come from. In fact, the flags project is an integral part of a bigger campaign to promote national identity and unity among all citizens.
“It complements the school curriculum that includes the recital of the Preamble to the Constitution and the Bill of Rights, among other initiatives,†said Minister Mthethwa.
The Department of Arts and Culture is working with the Department of Basic Education to monitor and measure the influence of the hoisting of flags to national pride and consciousness, including in rural and other far flung areas.
“Schools are scattered all over the country and can be found in remote areas where there is no other public building with a national flag like a police station.
“As a result, the school with the national flag becomes the community’s source of national identity and pride, and thus gives people a sense of belonging,†said Minister Mthethwa.
The Minister said he was happy that the project has not incurred extra costs since 2012.
“Instead, it has picked up a faster pace with the appointment of two service providers in each province. This has resulted in the creation of jobs for 154 people,†said Minister Mthethwa. – SAnews.gov.za