Acceptance Speech by the Minister of Basic Education, Mrs Angie Motshekga, MP, on the Award of the Knight of the National Order Legion of Honour by the French President
Programme Director,
French Ambassador to South Africa, His Excellency Mr David Martinon,
Embassy officials and Alliance Francais, MEC for Education: Northern Cape, CEO of UMALUSI,
CEO of SACE, CEO of NECT,
Secretary-General of SADTU, Executive Director of NAPTOSA, General Secretary of NATU,
CEO of School Governing Body Foundation, Family members,
Ladies and gentlemen, Esteemed guests,
It is truly an honour to stand before you today, deeply humbled by the recognition bestowed upon me by the French Ambassador to South Africa on behalf of His Excellency, President Emmanuel Macron of France.
I am profoundly grateful to be awarded the prestigious 'La Légion d'honneur'."
To be named a Knight of the National Order Legion of Honour is not just a personal accolade but a testament to the unyielding spirit of our nation and the enduring bonds that tie South Africa and France together.
As I stand before you today, deeply honoured, I am reminded of the words of our beloved former President, Nelson Mandela, when he accepted the Grand Cross of the Legion of Honor in 1995.
He said, “This award is a great honour for me, and it is also a recognition of the struggle of the South African people for
democracy and human rights. I accept it on behalf of all those who have fought and sacrificed for freedom in South Africa.”
In echoing Madiba's sentiments, I too believe that such accolades and recognitions are not just for the individual but are a testament to the collective spirit, the struggles, and the aspirations of our people.
They remind us of the journey we have undertaken, the battles we have fought, and the future we seek to create.
His Excellency, Ambassador Martinon, I've always believed that basic education is the cornerstone of any society and the foundation upon which we build our future.
I come from a long list of teachers in my family. From an early age I was blessed with books and knowledge sharing in our extended family.
I dedicate this award to the South African teachers who, despite all odds stacked against them, soldier on every day for the benefit of our learners.
To my family, today I stand honoured alone, but this award is yours too, for you have allowed me to be of service to the people of this country.
Ladies and gentlemen, to be acknowledged for my service in this realm feels like a validation of my efforts and countless educators, students, and parents who strive daily to uplift our society through knowledge and empowerment.
Yet, beyond education, this honour touches on a broader theme: the struggle.
A struggle that so many of our compatriots endured, a struggle that has defined our past and shaped our future.
Being recognised for my small part in this immense journey is both humbling and inspiring.
My contribution to the struggle for freedom might have been tiny, but its contribution to me has been immense.
I extend my deepest gratitude to the French President, His Excellency Emmanuel Macron, French Ambassador to South Africa, His Excellency Ambassador David Martinon and the great nation of France.
Your acknowledgement today does not just honour me but every South African who believes in the transformative power of basic education and the values of liberty, equality, and fraternity that the Légion d'honneur represents.
May this serve as a beacon, illuminating the path for the next generation and inspiring them to serve with the same passion and commitment?
As we gather here, let this occasion also be a testament to the enduring friendship between France and South Africa.
Our shared histories, common goals, and mutual respect for democracy, education, and human rights continue to be the pillars of our partnership.
In conclusion, while I'm profoundly grateful for this honour, I view it as a symbol – a symbol of the unyielding spirit of our nation, the transformative power of basic education, and the shared values that bind South Africa and France.
Let us continue to work hand in hand, forging ahead towards a brighter, more enlightened future.
Thank you.
