Guests, invited by the Turkish Consulate, attended the breaking of the fast event at the Maarif International School in Claremont.
Image: Jade Otto
There was a resounding call to be mindful of the plight of those suffering in Palestine as dignitaries from across the world gathered for the nightly breaking of the fast.
With less than a week to go until the end of the holy month of Ramadan, religious leaders, community organisations and local government officials gathered for Iftaar at the International Maarif School in Claremont on Monday night.
"Tonight let us remember those around the world who face unimaginable hardships. Let us keep them in our prayers and in our hearts," said Yonca Sunel, Turkish Consul General.
Sunel said while Ramadan was a time of prayer, fasting and self-discipline, the deeper meaning was indicative of gratitude and self-reflection. "It teaches us to feel the struggles of others, to extend a helping hand, and to be grateful for what we have," said Sunel.
She reflected on the conflict in Gaza. "Families are fasting without knowing if they will have food at sunset, at iftar time. More resources are needed to respond to the current humanitarian crises," she said.
President of the Muslim Judicial Council Sheikh Riyaad Fataar Al-Azhari agreed calling for an end to the genocide in Palestine saying the world needs peace now more than ever.
Türkiye has been offering humanitarian aid across the world with the help of their NGO sector. "In 2024, humanitarian aid was sent to more than 70 countries in five continents," Sunel said.
The Turkish Maarif Foundation (TMF), together with the Türkiye embassy and representatives of the Western Cape government, opened the school over a year ago. The focus of the independent school is on maths, science and technology, notwithstanding the importance of humanity.
The Maarif Foundation has opened 465 schools and universities in 51 countries since it launched in 2016.
Dr Ramazan Aydin, manager of the Cape Town school said it was an honour to host the event adding that it had been a successful journey since the school opened its doors in January 2024.
"Despite the short time, we have made significant progress. With our administrative team and dedicated teachers, we are proud to have a passionate, idealistic, and committed team. With this strong team, we are not only aiming for academic success, but also striving to raise our students as good human beings - virtuous individuals who contribute positively to society," Aydin said.
The International Maarif School will hold an Open Day and scholarship exam for Grade 7 and Garde 9 pupils on 12 April 2025. For more information visit https://www.internationalmaarifschools.co.za/
Turkish Consul General Yonca Sunel took Western Cape Premier Alan Winde on a tour of the Maarif International School.
Image: Supplied
Premier Alan Winde reflected on the many items he and his family visited Türkiye saying it was one of their favourite travel destinations.
Other invited guests including former Minister of Trade, Industry and Competition Ebrahim Patel, deputy mayor of Cape Town Eddie Andrews, retired Judge Siraj Desai, human rights lawyer Igshaan Higgins and UWC Professor Anesh Singh.
Weekend Argus