In commemoration of the International Day for the Elderly, former students of St. Agnes High school observed the event by celebrating with all former teachers who served at the school from 1989 to 1993  in Berea on Sunday.

The event was observed under the theme, “Resilience of older persons in a changing world” with the aim to recognize the  contributions that older persons are making in life and to raise awareness of the importance of leaving no one behind in the  changing world.

In honor of former teachers, the event also saw the launch and the oath taking by the executive board members of Mahlomola Possa Outreach Fund (MPOF) named after one of the former St. Agnes Principals Mr. Mahlomola Possa, and the fund was established to provide support to the children from the needy families.

Secretary General of MPOF Mr. Motlalepula Qhubu said they are united with one objective of celebrating the contribution made by their elderly teache and this was initiated by one of the former students Mr.  Makhubane Tshabalala with the intention to bring together former students in order to address  needs of vulnerable students.

Chairman of Smoke of Forgiveness Foundation, Mr. Makhubane Tshabalala said as they commemorate the international day of the elderly and the official inauguration of the MPOF, the event marks a milestone of success as the fund  observed its first anniversary.Mr. Tshabalala said although many of the elderly people may have passed their productive age, however as former students they developed a need to celebrate and recognize the constructive role they continue to play in the society, adding that they still consider them as their  inspiration and cornerstone of strength.

Former St. Agnes High School Principal Mr. Mahlomola Possa said despite the special honor in the form of Mahlomola Possa Outreach Fund, they have worked  with former teachers of 1993  and they share the glory. Acting Deputy Principal Mr. Lehlohonolo Koela said they commend the initiative of  celebrating the elderly people as today they have landed into different careers due to the help they got from the elderly. The international day of elderly persons is celebrated on October 01  to raise awareness about the importance of elderly people in modern society.