Provincial Heritage Day Celebrated to Mark 140th Anniversary of Lesseyton Methodist Theological Training Centre
The Eastern Cape Provincial Government led by Premier Lubabalo Oscar Mabuyane celebrated the Provincial Heritage Day in Lesseyton Methodist Heritage Site Precinct, Komani on Sunday, 24 September 2023.
This year’s Heritage Day was dedicated to the 140th anniversary of Lesseyton Methodist Theological Training Centre and historically significant events associated with the landmark.
Under the theme “Celebrating Our Cultural Diversity in a Democratic South Africa”, the province showcased the rich cultural heritage sites that, over the years, were used to convene political gatherings, including meetings attended by former struggle stalwarts such as Charlotte Mannya Maxeke.
The training Centre is one of the heritage sites which forms part of the Eastern Cape’s Resistance and Liberation Heritage Route that incorporates other significant sites within the broader Chris Hani Liberation Heritage Route.
Former students such as Reverends Z.R. Mahabane and Dr E.J. Mqoboli were some of the prominent alumni of Lesseyton Methodist Theological Training Centre, who are known for their immense contribution in the struggle towards national liberation. Their endeavours in the fight against oppressive colonial policies impacted positively to the liberation struggle.
The Eastern Cape Provincial Government has plans to restore the site and utilise it for provision of services that would benefit the nearby communities.