Saturday, August 18, 2012

August 17

When Paul and I woke up at 6:30 am the family was already gone. When Scott came back we were all set for another day of exploring the great history in Durban. We first visited Rev. Dr. John Dube's Ohlange Institute which is the first African run and African funded educational institution in South Africa . It open it's doors in 1901. Dube
Was an educationalists, editor and also one of the founders of the ANC and its first president. His aim was to uplift and empower the local African community through education and skills training coupled with strict adherence to Christian moral principles and values. Through the dedication of Dube the Ohlange has a successful educational system today and is one of the most important historical sites in post-apartheid south Africa. In a symbolic gesture, the country's first democratically elected president, Nelson Mandela, choose to cast his vote here in 1994. Ohlange means 'place of reeds'. An area where the Ohlange river flows.

Then we visited Gundi's original cottage. (1903). The site is a symbol of political activism and social justice. It was the stronghold of the passive resistance of 1913 and remained an important site of resistance during apartheid. As you drive up on a dirt road to Gundi' cottage on both sides of the road you will drive through Bhambayi, the shack settlement which had sprung up around the compound , was the scene of intense civic violence.
We then headed for Micah's school to watch him in a 4K run, however it was cancelled because of the weather. The school was very impressive. A large modern campus. He will attend high school next year.

We relaxed a little in the late afternoon and then went out for Italian food. Early to bed - tomorrow we need to leave for the airport at 5:30 am to Cape Town

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