Input window extended for history curriculum debate

NATIONAL NEWS - The window for public input on South Africa's proposed new history curriculum has officially been extended, giving stakeholders more time to have their say.

The initial deadline for submissions on the draft History Curriculum and Assessment Policy Statements (Caps) was set for 19 April. However, in a media release last week, the Department of Basic Education confirmed a 30-day extension. The new closing date for public comment is 19 May.

According to the department, the extension decision was driven by strong public interest and a need to ensure broader participation. It said in a statement that there are no predetermined outcomes, and that the public's input would play a direct role in shaping the final curriculum.

Importantly, the department has encouraged all interested parties - including teachers, parents, learners and community members - to use the additional time to engage meaningfully with the draft and submit their views through the official channels.

All submissions received by the closing date will be considered as part of the process to determine the content of the final curriculum.

Perspectives

While the proposed curriculum includes a stronger focus on African perspectives and critical thinking, it has also sparked debate.

Writing on Politicsweb, Richard Wilkinson cautions against what he describes as a potential shift towards an overly prescriptive approach in his article, "The dangerous 'decolonisation' of SA's school history curriculum".

He argues that when history is taught through a single, state-endorsed framework, it risks moving "from teaching students how to think … to guiding them towards what to think."

Wilkinson stresses that expanding the study of African history is both necessary and overdue, but warns that the concern lies in how that history is framed. A curriculum, he suggests, should expose learners to multiple perspectives rather than orienting them toward a predetermined interpretation.

He further raises the question of whether history teaching remains a search for truth, or whether it risks becoming a tool to shape contemporary views on identity and society.

At the same time, he acknowledges that the publication of the draft marks an important opportunity for public engagement - not a final decision.

Submissions should be made to the following address: Ms Florence Modipa, Chief Education Specialist: Curriculum Policy, Department of Basic Education, Sol Plaatje House, 222 Struben Street, Pretoria, 0001, or send an email to [email protected].

Writer Richard Wilkinson says learners should be exposed to multiple perspectives. Photo for illustrative purposes: Pexels