Draft documents show that the curriculum aims to build students' knowledge and skills in history from grades 4 to 12. It frames the school's history around investigation, use of evidence, interpretation and critical analysis of past events.
SADTU spokesperson Nomusa Sembi highlighted the need for change in how history is taught in South African schools.
He said, “For too long, history in South Africa has been taught from a colonial, Eurocentric perspective, ignoring the African perspective. We hope that the draft history curriculum is a step towards correcting this imbalance.”
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Sembi stressed that SADTU has long advocated not only a curriculum with an African perspective but also the compulsory teaching of history.
According to him, this approach promotes national identity, social cohesion and critical thinking, while helping learners appreciate diverse cultures and societies.
The union confirmed that it would submit its comments on the draft, ensuring that the final curriculum would be balanced and reflect South African aspirations.
“We are committed to collaborating with all stakeholders to advance quality public education and ensure that history education contributes to building a just, equitable and united South Africa,” Sembi said.
The public comment period will run through April 19.
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