SA’s largest food can mosaic

THE largest food-can mosaic ever created in South Africa will come to life on Nelson Mandela Day.

Two hundred pupils from two Leap Science and Maths Schools in Langa and Philippi, donors and volunteers will join forces as part of their 67 minutes of community work honouring the world icon’s legacy.

Comprising more than 29 000 food cans donated by Rhodes Quality company and the public, the mosaic will be made at the Canal Walk Shopping Centre food court.

Leap executive director John Gilmour said: “We invite everyone to join us for 67 minutes or more, in what is sure to be a historic event that will ultimately help us provide quality education to all our pupils.”

He encouraged further donations of additional food cans, saying all cans from the mosaic would be distributed by the schools’ pupils to social community projects in their communities.

The principal of Leap Science and Maths School in Langa, Lindelwa Mini, said: “We want to help our pupils to become more conscious of social justice issues, and the importance of giving back.

“All Leap students are required to volunteer their time at social development organisations within their communities at least once every term.

“They are encouraged to view the social responsibility programme as part of their learning, to develop empathy and leadership skills that are crucial in supporting academic performance.”

There are six low-fee Leap Science and Maths Schools in disadvantaged communities in South Africa, including the two in the Western Cape. These schools have consistently obtained more than 90% pass rates since their inception.

“At Leap we believe that our pupils represent the greatest hopes of their communities, and that educating our children is only the first step in true social transformation. Ultimately we want to see entire communities transformed, family life restored and children flourishing,” said Gilmour.

The Leap schools in Langa and Philippi achieved 91% and 92% matric pass rates last year, respectively.