Six Cape Peninsula University of Technology students took some time out of their academic schedule to entertain senior citizens in Samora Machel, Philippi, on Saturday August 26, at the Catholic Welfare Development Hall.
The students performed music and poems and fed the seniors. Their programme also included games.
They were supported by other groups including the Masakhane Event Company, a company run by second year tourism students which organises events for students.
Siphamandla Sasi, Masakhane financial administrator, said: “We looked around and felt Samora Machel is an ideal place. The hall that we have always caters for seniors. These are valuable people to us. These are people that have taken us from childhood to where we are today. They need to feel special.”
He promised many similar projects.
Organiser Amanda Mahlanyana said most seniors were alone at their homes, with no one to entertain them. She said there were lots of fun activities seniors could enjoy if it was made available to them.
“The group was fantastic. The smiles on the faces said it all,” she said.
“We not only gave them food but made them play games and sing. It was a cultural event so we also sang some traditional renditions and they did so too. It is always interesting to have an event with our elderly people.”
Seniors Nozonke Munda and Nontuthuzelo Mani agreed that it was not every day that one came across children who loved and cared for seniors.
“I was not even sure why they called us here, but I do not regret coming. I feel special. It is rare that young people look after us,” said Ms Munda.
For Ms Mani, the day was too short. She said she always loved going to the hall, but on this day, it was even more special.
“Our grandchildren treated us with care and love. They made us feel good. It has been long that we see children dedicating their time to us. These young people could have decided to go enjoy themselves in better places but they chose us. If they say we are special, I also believe they are special too,” she said.