"Better Together" on Freedom Day

On Freedom Day 2012, the Department of Cultural Affairs and Sport (DCAS) brought learners together in Hout Bay to celebrate this historic day on the stage and the sports field.

Each year, DCAS celebrates Freedom Day in a unique manner and this year pupils from primary and high schools across Cape Town were invited to take part in sport and recreational activities at Hout Bay's Hangberg Soccer Field and Multi-Purpose Centre. The aim of this celebration is to bring learners from diverse communities together and to showcase talent.

Nine schools from Lavender Hill, Delft, Khayelitsha, Grassy Park and Hout Bay were earmarked for this special event. These learners were excited to be part of such an occasion, and they came fully prepared. They presented their poetry, dancing, singing and stage plays with the "Freedom Day" theme, exhibiting their artistic skills and entertaining the audience. On the sports field the competition was tough, with the various netball and five-a-team soccer teams competing. The three best teams received medals, and the second-best teams each received a trophy, presented by DCAS staff.

Mr Anthony Lottering, DCAS project manager for school programmes, said that about 500 pupils took part in these activities. A sport and culture event like this was important to the people of Hout Bay and he hoped that similar events would be held on a regular basis to uplift communities. "All these schools who took part in the activities are from different communities and backgrounds, and the Hout Bay community appreciates their efforts and dedication."

The City of Cape Town and the South African Police Service made a huge contribution to the success of the day by providing emergency services and security. The event was well organised and the learners returned home with new experiences.

DCAS' community outreach is focused on changing the lives of people in the province through sport and culture, and to engage in meaningful partnerships with role players and community members who understand the provincial government's intention to do things "better together".

See pictures of the day's events.