Let’s embrace diversity!

Octavia Tsibes
Ngurimuye Tjikeama

Last week we held our annual cultural week for the grade 9 learners with the aim to provide them with an opportunity to deepen and enhance their understanding of the value of cultural diversity.

The event took place in Ms. Somses’ class, where all learners were tasked to do an in depth study of their culture and dress up in traditional attire. Learners portrayed what it means to be a part of their ethnic groups. The Herero ethnic group had the Ohorokova traditional dress which is A-line shaped with fabric sewn over several petticoats for a wide, structured skirt. This was then accessorized with a cow horn shaped hat known as the otjikeva.

The Ovambo had their ondelelas on with the different combinations representing the three different Ovambo tribes; the Kwanyama, Ndonga and Ngandera. The baster ethnic group came dressed in their long dresses and the unique headdress, which is worn during special ceremonies. The Namas and Damara had their colourful traditional attire. Germans and Caprivians were presented by the learners as well.

This event opened a door to the cultural mind sets of the youth, as such everyone present benefitted from the knowledge shared. The cherry on top of the cake was the food each cultural group cooked up to represent and show how rich and complex our cuisine in Namibia. Learners were enriched by the insight about the different cultures and got the opportunity to embrace diversity and be tolerant and empathetic to people from all walks of life. They got to explore the broader concepts of their beliefs, values and culture.

Ms. Somses initiated culture week three years back to mitigate the gap stereotyping had caused on the different cultures. The purpose was to take time to learn about the different people in our environment and everyday life. To help foster an environment where each individual can be celebrated despite where they come from, how they look like or the accent they speak with.

Here, at De Duine, it is never about where you come from but rather about what flavour you can bring to the table.