Pretoria:National Heritage Council Programmes Manager Amos Mulaudzi has urged South Africans to incorporate indigenous languages into their daily lives to preserve culture and heritage. He emphasized the significance of storytelling as a powerful tool in maintaining cultural traditions.
According to South African Government News Agency, Mulaudzi acknowledged the advancements in technology but stressed the importance of returning to basics and respecting traditional practices. He called for a transformation of South Africa's heritage landscape by reconnecting communities with oral traditions and indigenous knowledge, while also adapting these to the modern context.
Mulaudzi highlighted the importance of integrating South Africa's heritage into the school curriculum, as it is central to the country's identity. He noted that while technology facilitates reaching broader communities, it must be used responsibly, ensuring that sacred traditions are respected and elders are consulted in heritage management.
During a dialogue titled "South Africa's Heritage as a Key Milestone: Institutions and Society," held as part of Heritage Month commemorations, Mulaudzi reiterated that the beauty of living heritage lies in its sacredness, and emphasized the need for elder involvement in heritage decisions.
Kara Heritage Institute Executive Director Dr. Mathole Motshekga also underscored the importance of understanding African identity and heritage, stressing Africa's unique contribution to the world and the need to teach African spirituality.