Rainbow run raises funds for education

THE Nelson Mandela Metropolitan University Rag Farm will be “splashed in colour” next weekend in an effort to raise funds for an education centre in one of the most impoverished townships.

A 3km rainbow run and festival take place next Saturday at the Rag Farm at South Campus to raise funds for the Lavel’ilanga ( Here comes the sun) Education Centre. Lavel’ilanga is a project of the Masifunde Learner Development Organisation, which will provide computer skills, life skills and will also house a library to cater for children from Walmer township and surrounding areas.

“With this phrase, [Here comes the sun] we, the youth of Walmer Township, express the importance of education in facilitating positive change in today’s society. And, just like the sun, the education centre, as well as the education it provides, will be available to everybody, not only to the privileged,” said Thabo Mali, one of the members of the Lavel’ilanga Youth Forum.

Third-year NMMU BA Media, Communication and Culture students have embarked on the fundraising race which is a one of several fundraising events for the year.

Entrants are encouraged to wear white, as they will run through different colour zones where they will be splashed with anti-staining cornstarch.

“A ‘finishing festival’ will be held at the finishing line, with spectators and finishers being prompted to launch colour into the air every 15 minutes. The colour festival will have refreshments for sale, stalls, and activities for the kiddies as well as entertainment,” said Mali.

Registration will open from 9am and the race will start at 10am. Entry fee is R35 and children under seven are not allowed to participate.

❑ To register for the run contact Kedibone Adams 072-449-8757 or Sasha Blignaut at 082-388-4580.