Curriculum and national identity in South Africa : examining the representation of national identity in the public school curriculum

Abstract

The importance for a country to have a national identity that is inclusive and a representation of all citizens is pivotal. National identity in post-apartheid South Africa has risen to the top of the national agenda. However, the creation and adoption of national identity in a country such as South Africa is complex and this is because South Africa has a society which is immersed in diversity. Thus, the task of creating a national identity that is inclusive and aware of diversity is important. National identity in South Africa is aspirational. It details who we as a country wish to become. It encompasses the national values and ideals that should reside in the hearts of South Africa’s people. However, for these national values and ideals to reside in the hearts and minds of citizens, they need to be taught. Thus, educational spaces (i.e., curriculum) have been identified as avenues that will enable this to take place. However, because of its inspirational note, defining national identity in South Africa is difficult. This study uses the preamble of the Constitution as a blueprint in defining national identity in South Africa. This research study sought to examine the national identity markers which were categorised using this blueprint. These markers were furthermore used to examine the curriculum to investigate how and if so, how efficiently, aspects of national identity are covered in the curriculum, by focusing particularly on the Grades 8–12 Life Orientation and Grades 8–9 Social Sciences. It is through this examination that curriculum was identified as being mostly successful in teaching learners about national values and ideals (i.e., national identity).