The Minister of Arts and Culture, Mr Nathi Mthethwa has told the National Assembly that 9 530 flags have been installed in schools to encourage pride in national identity among school children.
“We are very happy that this nation building project has not incurred extra costs in the last three years, that is, from 2012 to date. 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.
He emphasised that the installation of flags is part of the government program 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 the 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.
Also, he said the Department of Arts and Culture is working with the Department of Basic Education to monitor and measure the influence of 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, pride and thus gives people a sense of belonging,” said Minister Mthethwa.
For further details:
Sandile Memela
Spokesperson for the Minister
Cell: 082 800 3750
