University of the Free State Students March in Solidarity with Japan and its People

On Friday 18 March, 2011 the University of the Free State held its first ever March for Human Rights, which forms part of South Africa's Human Rights Day (March 21st) celebrations. Each year the March will identify a particular cause selected by the student community. This year the aim of the March was to demonstrate Solidarity with the People of Japan who were hit with a devastating Earthquake and Tsunami on March 11, 2011. Members of various religions joined in prayer for those Japanese who lost loved ones and possessions in the disaster, and a solemn moment of silence was observed for those who had lost their lives.

Modieyi Motholo – Chairperson: Interim Student Committee commented that, "A day like today is of immense significance to this University but most importantly to the people of the World because it shows that we are a student body who cares about our fellow humanity and the concept of Humanity…"

On Thursday 24th March, student representatives of the University of the Free State paid a visit to the Embassy of Japan in Pretoria, where they signed the book of condolence.

The Embassy of Japan wishes to express its heartfelt gratitude to the staff and students of the University of the Free for the sympathy and empathy expressed by dedicating the first March for Human Rights to the victims of the Tohoku Earthquake and Tsunami.

Students gather at the University of the Free State in support of the victims of
the Earthquake and Tsunami that struck North East Japan on March 11, 2011.