Heritage – live it, teach it, celebrate it!

Spring has sprung and September holds a very special place in every South African’s heart. The 24th is Heritage Day – which was initially well-known as Shaka Day which commemorated the legendary King Shaka Zulu. In 1996 a compromise was reached and Heritage Day was born. It was decided that this will be a day where all South Africans get to celebrate their diverse cultures and in 2008 Heritage Day became national Braai Day endorsed by South Africa’s National Heritage Council and Archbishop Desmund Tutu. Let’s be honest – there is nothing like a braai that unites all religions, races, and different walks of life. There is just something about food and celebrating life that works together in a divine synergy.

With South Africa being such a culturally diverse country with a rich history, it is important to ensure that heritage is taught in schools from a very young age and of course, celebrated. We are all aware that there are some very thin lines that cannot be crossed when it comes to race and religion in South Africa, but it is so important to teach children to learn, understand and appreciate cultural heritage. But how exactly does a teacher go about fostering cultural awareness and sensitivity? Follow the below tips and you can’t go wrong.

Show interest in diversity
As the old saying goes, charity begins at home. To maintain a culturally inclusive classroom it is important to set the example and show your interest as a teacher in different cultures. Make sure you engage with your learners and ask them to share their stories and relate their cultural experiences to your teaching material.

Always be sensitive to differences
Some learners will always be more forthcoming about their cultural differences than others. Don’t jump to conclusions and make assumptions. Don’t always think the worst and that a learner is just lazy or does not grasp the study material. Think culturally – what are the differences and what can you do to adjust your methods?

High expectation is key through the board
Just because a classroom is diverse it doesn’t mean that you as a teacher have to have diverse expectations. No matter the culture, teachers need to maintain high expectations for the whole class. Of course, you must accommodate learners who require special attention or assistance, but the main goal is for all learners to reach their full potential.

Teach a culturally inclusive curriculum
It is of the utmost importance in South African schools that the curriculum needs to be inclusive. A broad curriculum is the only thing that will capture the diversity in our country and make all learners feel that they are important and that cultures are equally celebrated.

Whether we call it a braai, a barbecue, Shisa Nyama, or Ukosa, we are all South Africans at the end of the day, hence why this foundation needs to be laid from a very young age. In the wise words of the amazing Nelson Mandela, may he rest in peace: “We can change the world and make it a better place. It is in your hands to make a difference.”