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An inspiration for young blood

Last Updated 10 December 2013, 13:21 IST

He dedicated his life to racial equality and the dignity of human life. Nelson Mandela, the South African, anti-apartheid revolutionary leader was the beacon of light not only for South Africa but for the entire world. Speaking to Metrolife, students from Africa residing in the City pay their tributes to the towering figure who passed away recently.

 For Goho Ella Synthia from Ivory Coast, Nelson Mandela’s death came as a rude shock. Goho says, “My friends from Africa and I have been in mourning ever since we heard the news. For us, Mandela was a figure we looked up to. If we place a lot of importance on love and peace, it’s because Mandela taught us to.”

Pe Louoguea Simmy, a first-semester MSc Biotechnology student at Kristu Jayanti College says that the death of the multi-faceted personality has created a vacuum in Africa. “He set an example for others through his selflessness and sacrifices. It is hard for the African community to imagine that there will be another Mandela,” says Simmy and adds, “In fact, he was a pioneer in many ways. For instance, he was among the first to advice leaders in Africa that war is not the solution to any problem.”

For others like Goumou Ferdinand from Republic of Guinea, Nelson Mandela was a role model who played an important role in bringing about several major reforms. “Africa grew leaps and bounds under the aegis of Mandela. We appreciate him for the challenges he undertook to ensure that the quality of our life improves. Honestly, there are hardly people like him now,” muses the MCA student from Kristu Jayanti College.

Pointing out to the struggles and sacrifices made by Mandela, Betelehem Tilahun, a second-year BBM student from Acharya Institute of Technology, who hails from Ethiopia, explains, “A man who spent 27 years in prison for human freedom and justice, who struggled for equality and democracy and who fought both back and white extremists is surely a shining example of good leadership. He is an inspiration to all of us and the generations to come.”

At Indian Academy, messages have been pouring in for the message board that has been put up.


“Telling us that dreams can become reality and a germ of an idea can be implemented, Mandela gave us the hope and belief that we have the strength to work hard. Our coming to Bangalore to study is a reflection of that,” says Tony Simbi, president of the Congolese community of Bangalore and a BCom student at Indian Academy. He adds, “As the younger generation, we are proud of our Father.”

The students in the City were keenly following Mandela’s health condition and were praying throughout. “Even though we may be far away from our homes, we were constantly following what was happening, especially since he was not keeping well for a while.

Now, all we are left with are fond memories of the great personality,” rues Salamah, another student.  Grateful for the opportunities that the younger generation has got, Caleb Abedi, an undergraduate student, says, “We must never forget that someone has worked very hard to ensure that we have equal opportunities.”

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(Published 10 December 2013, 13:20 IST)

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