Race a socially constructed myth, says ex-principal Isaacs

A SPEECH I would have given to South Peninsula High School matric pupils of 2016 at their prize-giving on Thursday, October 13, if I was allowed to do so. (These sentiments I express to all matriculants in the country).

You stand on the shoulders of giants before you. You are the 62nd group of matrics to leave this esteemed institution. The giants I am speaking about are all the students who have graced our school and the intellectual giants of teachers who gave their all for you to pursue excellence.

MN Moerat was my mentor. When he retired in 1984 he continued to give me his guidance and wisdom, which I accepted with open arms until his death on December 18, 2009.

Let no official of the Western Cape Education Department or any business leader say to you that your matric certificate is worthless. It’s the culmination of all your experiences, good and bad over a period of 12 years. Always remember those hard-working teachers who bent over backwards to help you.

SPHS has taught you to pursue your future careers with dedication and commitment. AG de Villiers said to the SP students: “When you enter the gates of SPHS, you must do well.” This is SP’s signpost to the world awaiting you.

More importantly, SP has taught you to be firmly on the side of the poor.

Our strength as a nation will be determined by taking hands with the poor and creating a caring and sharing society. Wherever you find yourself after completing your tertiary education, or at your place of work, you must use your resources to help others.

SP has taught you that you are a human being. “Race” is a socially constructed myth. It is used by those in power to cripple your minds and to remain locked in group identities and lose sight of taking humanity further.

Speak truth to power no matter who the power might be. Break the culture of silence because it deafens you to the call of help from the downtrodden. I hope that at SP you have learnt that it is not only important to say the right things, but more importantly to do the right things.

SPHS believes we have given you the necessary intellect and skills to make a contribution to world civilisation. Remember when I meet you in the street I am going to pose the question to you: “What are you doing to make your society a better place?”

I have been enriched by getting to know each one of you. I am because of you. I wish you well for the future. Not to be served but to serve. Non ministrari sed ministrare. Brian Isaacs Former principal of South Peninsula High School