- Event Overview and Theme: The Department of Basic Education and Eastern Cape Department of Education are hosting a three-day oral history competition in East London, focused on ‘Unity and Solidarity,’ to showcase learners’ communication and research skills.
- Participants and Scope: The provincial competition involves learners from Grade 8 to 11, including those from special schools, presenting on topics related to current and historical issues.
- Diverse Presentation Topics: Participants explored themes such as artificial intelligence in the Industrial Revolution, nuclear energy expansion, and the role of the Constitution in democracy, reflecting relevant national developments.
The Department of Basic Education, together with the Eastern Cape Department of Education, is hosting a three-day iNkosi Albert Luthuli Oral History Competition at the Mandla Makupula Education Leadership Institute in East London. The event is held under the theme “Unity and Solidarity” and provides learners with an opportunity to display their talent in oral communication and research.
The provincial competition brings together Grade 8 to 11 learners, including participants from special schools, to present on topics that reflect both current and historical issues. The initiative underlines the importance of preserving heritage while also equipping learners with critical thinking, public speaking and analytical skills.
Presentations have covered diverse themes: Grade 8 learners explored the inclusion of artificial intelligence in strengthening the Industrial Revolution in South Africa; Grade 9s discussed the expansion of nuclear energy systems to diversify the country’s electricity supply; while Grade 10s examined the role of the Constitution in strengthening democracy.
Grade 11 learners tackled two major themes: the fight against discrimination and racism in South Africa, as well as the role of the G20 in funding public education to promote quality foundational learning and professional teacher development. The competition not only celebrates history and heritage but also empowers young historians with skills that prepare them for future academic and career opportunities.
