Nelson Mandela issued a rallying cry to make poverty history in front of over 22,000 people in Trafalgar Square on Thursday, and backed the campaign that so many students are a vital part of: Make Poverty History.

The former South African President, who was wearing a white band throughout his address, said: "Like slavery and apartheid, poverty is not natural. It is man-made and it can be overcome and eradicated by the actions of human beings.

"Overcoming poverty is not a gesture of charity. It is an act of justice. It is the protection of a fundamental human right; the right to dignity and a decent life. While poverty persists, there is no true freedom.

"Sometimes it falls upon a generation to be great. You can be that great generation. Let your greatness blossom. Of course the task will not be easy. But not to do this would be a crime against humanity, against which I ask all humanity now to rise up.

"Make poverty history in 2005. Make history in 2005. Then we can all stand with our heads held high."

Pav Akhtar, NUS black Students' Officer said: “It was uplifting to see so many students taking part in this wonderful event. It was a very clear message from the student movement, that just as we campaigned to free Mandela from his wrongful imprisonment under Apartheid, so we are engaging with serious world issues to free poor countries from the shackles of debt and poverty.”

On Friday Mr Mandela met with the G7 leaders ahead of their critical meeting on the weekend to aleviate the debt of many poor countries, particularly in Africa.

For more information about Mr Mandela's speech visit: www.makepovertyhistory.org

Thanks to everyone who was part of this great event; together we can make poverty history.

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