The Department of Sport, Recreation, Arts and Culture in the Sarah Baartman District, in partnership with the Sundays River Valley Municipality and various stakeholders, hosted a vibrant celebration of International Museums Day in Nqweba recently.
The annual event, celebrated under the theme “The Future of Museums In Rapidly Changing Communities,” aims to recognise the vital role museums play in preserving cultural heritage whilst ensuring they remain relevant to evolving communities and accessible to all citizens.
Speaking at the opening ceremony, Councillor Simphiwe Rune, Chairperson for the Special Programmes Portfolio at the Sarah Baartman District Municipality, emphasised the crucial role museums play in preserving history. “Museums are the hubs of history. Hosting events of this nature for children in our communities brings joy. It’s important to know where you come from because it shapes where you are going as a person,” said Rune.
The celebration saw enthusiastic participation from learners representing various educational institutions, including Bongolethu Primary School, Moses Mabida Secondary School, Samkelwe Secondary School, St. Colmcille, and Sandisulwazi High School. Attendees had the valuable opportunity to interact with and explore artefacts, gaining deeper insights into world history and heritage.
A highlight of the day was the recognition of outstanding young writers, with prizes including laptops, tablets, and internet routers awarded to talented learners. The writing competition winners were announced as follows:
• 1st Place: Peacock Cassandra (Sandisulwazi Secondary School)
• 2nd Place: Lucas Jurgens (Kirkwood High School)
• 3rd Place: Anentlahla Rooibaard (St. Colmcille Secondary School)
• 4th Place: Sinovuyo Martins (Samkelwe Secondary School)
The celebration featured impressive exhibitions by the Albany Museum and Amathole Museum, offering attendees a glimpse into the rich cultural and historical tapestry of the Eastern Cape region.
Museum officials present at the event highlighted the importance of such celebrations in fostering a deeper appreciation for heritage preservation among younger generations and ensuring that museums evolve to meet the changing needs of their communities.
The Department of Sport, Recreation, Arts and Culture representatives expressed their satisfaction with the turnout and engagement, noting that such events play a crucial role in advancing the department’s mission to promote cultural awareness and appreciation across the Sarah Baartman District.
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