Heritage education challenge kicks off

 

Thirty-two (32) learners between Grades 8 and 11, chosen out of many entrants from eight provinces across South Africa will represent their respective schools at the national Heritage Education Schools Outreach Programme (HESOP) for the entire week of 02 – 06 October 2023 at the Golden Gate National Park in the Free State.

 

The Heritage Education School Outreach Programme (HESOP), an educational programme of the National Heritage Council of South Africa (NHC) supported by the Department of Basic Education (DBE) is providing an opportunity to high school learners studying Social Sciences, a chance to play their part, voice their views and to become involved in the protection of our common cultural and natural heritage.

 

This year’s programme commenced mid-year at district to provincial levels, culminating to a five-day national camp where finalists consisting of a groups of four learners and  accompanied by an educator, will each represent their provinces.

 

For the past 14 years, the NHC has been spearheading this programme with the aim to educate the public and the learners. HESOP enhances their knowledge through the teaching and learning process as well as inculcating the culture of self-appreciation and national identity. This year’s programme is in partnership with the South African National Parks (SANParks), National Youth Development Agency (NYDA) and the South African Heritage Resources Agency (SAHRA).

 

“Young people are a big puzzle piece in the preservation and promotion of our heritage. This strategic programme assists the NHC in educating our future generation about tangible and intangible heritage, climate change, gender-based violence, social cohesion, nation building,” says Dr Ndivhoniswani Lukhwareni, CEO of the Council.

 

The following schools made it to the final round of the HESOP challenge and will be at this year’s national camp to compete for the first, second and third place:

 

  • Gauteng, Bronkorspruit – Cultura High School
  • Mpumalanga, Bloedfontein – Molapalama Secondary School
  • North West, Mogwase – J.M Ntsime Secondary School
  • Northern Cape, Kimberley – Kimberley Technical School
  • Limpopo, Malamulele, Xikundu village – Jim Chavani School
  • Kwazulu Natal, Mandeni Macamabini Tribal Community- Mathubesizwe Secondary School
  • Free State, Paballong village- Lekgulo Secondary School
  • Western Cape, Kuils Rivier – Soneike High School

 

“Congratulations to the schools that made it to the finals, your hardwork has  paid off before the national challenge event starts! May the camp be a week filled with learning about other’s traditions and cultures, networking and rediscovering your strengths and weakness for a better version of yourselves. I wish you all the best in the challenge,” concludes Dr Lukhwareni.