On the cusp of Freedom Day, the Global Network of Religions for Children (GNRC) SA held a Children and Youth Interfaith Network (CAYIN) Forum Freedom Month celebration at the World Assembly of Muslim Youth.
Under the theme ‘Children – Our Gift and Responsibility,’ the CAYIN Forum reflected upon parents and every adult about how they are faced with many challenges and dilemmas, yet at the same time strive to ensure that their children received the very best in life. Saydoon Nisa Sayed, GNRC SA country co-ordinator said that children are a gift to be cherished by all. “They are in our care and we have the responsibility and opportunity to guide them as they grow older. We owe it to them and the world that we raise and educate them with a sense of accountability, discernment and humility. Yet, on the other hand as adults, we face many trials and tribulations but we really try to triumph these without showing even the slightest indication to children how these impact our lives.” The CAYIN Forum was supported by various interfaith organisations and individuals, including Alton Sukdeo from a Hindu background, Mark Naicker from the Catholic faith, Kurveshan Perumaul from the Sri Sathya Sai Organisation, special guest Guru Kumaran Sharma from the Sivasri Dr ST Kurukkal Cato Manor Hindu Gurukulam and Vedhan Singh who provided oversight from the African Union’s Intercontinental Interfaith Youth Forum.
Speaking to Tabloid Media, Sayed said, “Every one of us is a shepherd and responsible for our flock. Parents are the guardians of their family and are responsible for their children, therefore parents must treat their children fairly, with love and mercy. They should provide their children with good morals, ethical education and teach them about tolerance, respect and acceptance as well as about their rights and the rights of their fellow beings. Parents must provide children with a healthy, happy and positive environment for their upbringing”. The forum highlighted essential aspects about Freedom Day and the Bill of Rights to the children including aspects from the Bill of Responsibilities, which speaks about the right to equality, human dignity and life among other points. Sayed said that she encouraged all of the children to always accept the call of the Bill of Responsibilities and to commit to taking their rightful place as an active, responsible citizens of South Africa.
