Feb 29, 2008

Pledging pupils in South Africa

The Education Minister of South Africa, Naledi Pandor, has unveiled plans for a pledge to be recited by school children across the nation every morning. Pandor has stated that she's confident that no parents will object to this proposal that is "intended to internalise those values we as South Africans have thought to be important".
The idea does have its backers, including the National Association of School Governing Bodies, the opposition Democratic Alliance and the Afrikaans teaching union Suid-Afrikaanse Onderwysersunie to name a few.
However, others in the media circle are less eager to embrace this pledge that is being accused of introducing totalitarianism and making the large population of white children feel guilty about something that is not their fault. 

The oath reads as follows:

“We the youth of South Africa, recognising the injustices of our past, honour those who suffered and sacrificed for justice and freedom. We will respect and protect the dignity of each person, and stand up for justice. We sincerely declare that we shall uphold the rights and values of our Constitution and promise to act in accordance with the duties and responsibilities that flow from these rights.”

Is this a guilt trip or a good idea? 

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