By Thapelo Molefe
Basic Education Minister Siviwe Gwarube has warned that misinformation is spreading about the draft History curriculum, urging South Africans to read the document themselves and take part in the public comment process.
The draft curriculum, which is still under review, was developed by a task team appointed in 2019 by former minister Angie Motshekga. It proposes changes to how History is taught from Grades 4 to 12.
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In a statement on Tuesday, Gwarube said the document was released specifically to allow the public to engage with it and help shape the final version. However, she raised concern that some of the criticism being shared is based on claims that are not supported by what is actually in the draft.
She urged stakeholders to engage directly with the document instead of relying on incorrect or misleading information.
“I therefore encourage as many people as possible to indicate where they believe the draft should be strengthened, corrected, expanded or refined,” Gwarube said.
The minister stressed that the development of the curriculum must be inclusive and transparent, allowing different voices to be heard before any final decisions are made.
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She also outlined key principles that should guide the process, saying the curriculum must present a balanced view of the country’s past.
“Our History curriculum should not exclude key events or perspectives on political grounds, nor should it impose any particular ideology on learners,” she said.
“I am committed to ensuring that the curriculum equips learners to think critically about our past, so that they may form their own opinions,” she said.
“As South Africans, we understand how complex our history is, and how important the study of it is for reconciliation and nation-building. Robust and responsible engagement is essential,” she said.
The Department of Basic Education has called on the public to make detailed submissions on the draft before it is finalised, saying this will help ensure the curriculum is accurate, balanced and beneficial to learners.
