We recently completed a fun project which is getting a fair bit of attention. Together with Skillpod, we produced a series of online games in isiZulu for the Ulwazi Programme. The aims of the games are to get children and people not used to computers to start using the internet and engage with them in a fun and practical way. This is a proven learning tool and will hopefully lead to an increase in digital skills amongst players. The games are in isiZulu, to enable users to play/learn in their home language – check them out here.
The Ulwazi Programme (www.ulwazi.org) was featured in a recent publication by the Municipal Institute of Learning (www.mile.org.za) which looked at good practice in the eThekwini Municipality, and we got a mention as the consultants who keep it going – thanks Betsie!
The Ulwazi Programme is a ground-breaking initiative and is growing from strength to strength so its fitting that its starting to get the recognition it deserves. The book is freely available from MILE and is well worth a read as it highlights the best projects (in art, heritage, sustainable development and social justice) the city has to offer.
Switched-on solution to saving Indigenous Knowledge
Professor Kearney has recently published a guide to Durban’s rich architectural and cultural heritage. The main objective of the publication is to draw attention to the fragile richness of Durban’s architectural legacy – a distinctly non-renewable resource – and to introduce visitors and locals to an extraordinary polyglot past. The guide deals with the natural history; and the surviving open spaces. It briefly describes a very long prehistory; waves of refugees, settlers and immigrant peoples and their origins; military and political life; culture, religion, recreation and sport; technology, science and education; and trade, commerce and industry. It includes details of monuments, statues, local saints and myths.
A section is devoted to townscape – the quality of urban environment that reaches beyond individual buildings. Durban’s historic architecture is described with descriptions of the significant works of architecture to be found in and around the city: the City Centre; Point and Beachfront; the Berea and inner suburbs; and the newly incorporated areas to the north, south and west. A list of appropriate publications is included as well as lists of local tours, museums and galleries. The guide also incorporates a set of excursions for those wishing to explore the City, whether by foot, car or taxi.
All in all, a pretty good read.
The guide is currently available only in physical format at a cost of R80.00 including post and packaging. Orders can be e-mailed to David Bennett david@burvest.com.
Betsie Greyling interviews author, activist and politician Mewa Ramgobin at the Phoenix Settlement as part of the oral history component of the Ulwazi Programme. He provided insight into the ‘forgotten’ history of the 1960s and 1970s at the Settlement, where people like Steve Biko, Alan Paton and Rick Turner congregated at work parties to discuss the politics of the day and strategies of resistance.
