College of Human Sciences
Towards inclusive learning environments in South Africa
In a proactive effort to address the complex sociocultural challenges facing South African communities, particularly in educational settings, Unisa convened a landmark roundtable titled "Towards safe learning environments in a diverse spiritual and faith-based South African context".
The event, hosted by the College of Human Science's School of Humanities, was recently held in the Kopanong Conference room on the 10th floor of the Winnie Madikizela-Mandela Building at the Unisa Muckleneuk Campus. Prof Zethu Nkosi officially launched the roundtable, setting the stage for robust deliberations.
Shaping inclusive education
The roundtable brought together esteemed scholars, educators, policymakers and stakeholders from the fields of education, faith and spirituality. Dr Sidwell Mokgothu, a prominent expert in religious studies, and Prof Mathole Motshekga, an influential figure in theological discourse, were among the distinguished guests who graced the event. Their insights, along with those of other participants, formed the foundation for a comprehensive exploration of the intersection between faith, diversity and safe learning environments.
Participants of the ground-breaking roundtable
The roundtable was a direct response to the pressing need for inclusive religious and theological interventions in South African learning environments. The sociocultural diversity that characterises the nation poses both opportunities and challenges, especially within organised settings like schools. Discrimination, exclusion and intimidation based on factors such as religion, ethnicity, gender and more have been detrimental to the South African educational landscape. Unisa recognised the urgency to address these issues and support initiatives fostering a positive, inclusive, safe environment for all learners and educators.
The discussions during the roundtable centred on several key themes. The state of religious, spiritual and faith-related practices within teaching and learning environments was critically examined with participants sharing their experiences and shedding light on challenges, successes and best practice. The event also focused on strategies to empower educators, learner representative councils (LRCs) and parents through school governing bodies (SGBs). A commitment to advancing access to quality, evidence-based programmes was reiterated, emphasising a bottom-up approach to transforming South Africa's educational landscape.
Safe learning environments
The roundtable discussion marked a significant stride towards inclusive education as key voices like Prof Mathole Motshekga and Paseka Njobe joined forces under the guidance of Unisa and partners like Benya Consultancy and the Cyril Ramaphosa Foundation. The event illuminated pathways to constructive change. By addressing challenges at faith foundations and core religious beliefs the participants reaffirmed their dedication to crafting a safer, more inclusive and equitable learning environment for all in South Africa.
* By IHlubi Veli Mabona, Marketing Assistant, CHS Communications and Marketing
Publish date: 2023/08/21
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