As they say, there is a time to fight and a time to forgive.

As they say, there is a time to fight and a time to forgive.

The strike is over. Now is the time to heal, especially in our hospitals. Our hospitals resemble pigsties instead of sanctuaries of healing.

Dumping ground is a better word. It's just rubbish and more rubbish everywhere. It is time for communities to help.

Chris Hani-Baragwanath needs serious cleaning up. Bara is a national treasure because of its rich history and heritage. It is very important for surrounding communities to protect it. It is for this reason that the people of Soweto must volunteer to clean Bara.

This is the perfect time because schools are on holiday. Children can give an hour to volunteer their services. All they need is a black rubbish bag and a helpful attitude.

Hospitals such as Bara don't only belong to the government, administrators, nurses and doctors. Communities own Bara too, so people must help clean the hospital.

Communities all over the country must be responsible for their assets. Instead of just complaining about how dirty the hospitals are, what are you doing to clean them?

Community leaders must inculcate the spirit of volunteering and brotherhood.

Bring along your caring attitude the next time you visit a patient. This is a challenge to the people of Soweto and all communities. Preserve your national assets by protecting our buildings and environment.

Lucas Ntyintyane, Randburg