Holocaust survivor tells story to Crewe and Nantwich students

A Holocaust survivor shared his life experiences and recollections of World War II with Crewe and Nantwich students.

John Dobai spoke to students and staff at South Cheshire College about his family’s fight for survival during the 1940s.

The 80-year-old, who was born in Hungary to Jewish parents, recalled his younger years when millions of Jews were deported to the Auschwitz concentration camp and executed.

John and his family were liberated by the Russian army in 1945 and moved to England in 1948 where he completed school and studied chemistry at university.

A-Level students Erin Matthews and Marta Szlajter are ambassadors this year for a specialist education project called ‘Lessons from Auschwitz’ and arranged for John to come into college.

The project is sponsored by a Government grant and subsidised by the Holocaust Educational Trust

John penned his name on a special “Pledge to Tolerance” which was also signed by dozens of students, staff and governors.

The pledge was designed by graphics lecturer Mike Smith and will be displayed permanently at the college’s Crewe campus.

John also joined students and tutor Andrew Davidson to plant a horse chestnut tree in the college grounds in memory of those who lost their lives.

Moyra Throssell, equality and diversity co-ordinator at South Cheshire College, said: “We are very grateful to John for coming in and speaking to our staff and students about his life.

“His presentation was fascinating and moving and gave everyone an insight into what life as a Jewish family was like during World War II, which is difficult to possibly imagine.”

Erin and Marta have both visited Auschwitz as part of the educational project..

Moyra added: “Erin and Marta are both benefiting from the ‘Lessons from Auschwitz’ project which is giving them the chance to raise awareness of the Holocaust and the atrocities back in college.”