Camps Bay High School was privileged to welcome esteemed educator, Professor Jonathan Jansen, as the guest speaker at today’s cultural assembly. Professor Jansen, a renowned educator, author and former Vice-Chancellor of the University of the Free State, shared invaluable insights with both learners and staff. Professor Jansen is currently a distinguished professor of education at Stellenbosch University and president of the Academy of Science of South Africa. He is known for his thought-provoking views on education, race, and social justice.
Addressing the audience, Professor Jansen emphasised the importance of self-belief and confidence among South African scholars, highlighting the prevalent issue of lack of confidence and stressing the significance of instilling these qualities in young people, both at home and at school.
In a country like South Africa, he remarked, the most crucial lesson to learn is how to be decent. Education should not only focus on academic achievements but also on teaching respect and empathy, starting from home.
He urged the Camps Bay High School learners to adopt empathy, considering multiple viewpoints and prioritising humanity over politics. He said that education should teach individuals to serve others and align their values accordingly, highlighting qualities such as integrity, compassion and respect for others as crucial for societal improvement.
A special thanks to Ms. Saskia Welz, the Head of Culture at Camps Bay High School, who organised this opportunity for the Camps Bay High School learners. Ms. Welz, currently completing her fellowship at the Jakes Gerwel Fellowship under Professor Jansen’s tutelage, ensured that the assembly was both engaging and enlightening for all attendees.
As many learners expressed, Professor Jansen captivated the audience throughout the assembly, leaving a lasting impact on everyone present.
