The Portfolio Committee on Arts and Culture wishes every South African a joyful Heritage day. This day represents the root of why we call ourselves South Africans.
As we celebrate this important day we must be mindful that our heritage is not a day event in a calendar year, but must remain a constant day to day realisation of the richness of our unique cultures, the beauty of South Africa’s landscapes and the preciousness of the Constitution which guarantees our democracy.
The committee is of the view that while globalisation has its advantages it should not be allowed to override South Africa’s rich heritage. “It is upon this generation to make sure that we impart our heritage into the next generation. If we fail in this important mission we would be to blame for the erosion of our heritage,” said Ms Xoliswa Tom, the Chairperson of the Committee.
Central to transferring heritage to the next generation is the equitable use of all official languages in the country, including sign language. To this end, the committee calls on the Department of Basic Education to move with speed in ensuring that teaching of African languages in schools is implemented. It is also important that the age-old oral tradition of telling our stories is re-energised as a means of teaching our children how to behave.
Furthermore, the committee calls on the full implementation of the Official Languages Act as this Act is an enabling tool in ensuring that every South African gets access to information in the language of their choice.
The committee calls on all South Africans to reflect on were the country comes from and the kind of future we intend building as we celebrate this day.
For media enquiries, interviews with the Chairperson please contact:
Malatswa Evans Molepo
Tel: 021 403 8438
Cell: 073 297 1914
E-mail: mmolepo@parliament.gov.za
