Students Rob Porter, Aldona Gayland, guest speaker Aref Shakeri, his wife Elise Dodson, and students Sarah Hockey and Susie Latham.STUDENTS at Beaconhills College in Pakenham have had a unique opportunity to hear first hand how freedom is not always a given.
Guest speaker, Aref Shakeri from Iran, who was recently released from the Baxter Detention Centre after several years of confinement, last week spoke to students about his experiences and life in the centre.
Since his release Aref and his Australian wife have worked to create awareness of the refugees held in detention in Australia.
As part of their commitment to Amnesty International, a group of Beaconhills students from years seven to 12 meet weekly to discuss issues and write letters to the Federal Government and other authorities regarding their concerns about current global human rights.
“This visit is an example to all students of how their efforts really can have a positive impact and genuinely help others,” teacher Fiona Tomsic said.
“They will also gain a greater understanding and awareness of the meaning of freedom, something we in Australia take for granted.”
