Journal of Emerging Trends in Educational Research and Policy Studies: Home

Article Title: Unhu/Ubuntu and Its Relationship with Civics and Citizenship Education
by B.C. Muropa, L.P. Kusure, D. Makwerere, R. Kasowe and Z. Muropa

Abstract:
This paper reports on the interviews and focus group discussions held with seventy two University student teachers and three high school administrators to examine the concept and practice of Unhu or Ubuntu within the Zimbabwean context and its perceived linkage with Civics and Citizenship education taught in high schools and state universities. The paper draws its conceptual framework from an analysis of what various authorities have written on the concept Unhu/Ubuntu. The results of the research indicate that people in Zimbabwe accept and acknowledge Unhu/Ubuntu as a powerful force guiding people in their day to day interaction with one another. This is shown through such acceptable ways of talking, attending to daily chores, and acceptable behaviour right down to the way of dressing. Unhu/Ubuntu and human decency cannot be separated. There was a common agreement on what the concept portrays and implies both within and outside the school. The respondents tended to have a common stand on what Unhu/Ubuntu is all about within the Zimbabwean context. The issues of gender bias and lack of maturity were raised by some female respondents in the focus groups. They argued that some men complain of women�s lack of decency when it suits them and yet derive pleasure when in their company. The necessity of linking Unhu/Ubuntu with Civics and Citizenship Education was emphasised by all respondents. Challenges on the teaching of Unhu/Ubuntu and Civics and Citizenship Education were identified. The significance of this research lies in its potential to provoke debate and dialogue at all levels of society on the concept and practice of unhu/ubuntu.

Keywords: unhu/Ubuntu, citizenship education, Zimbabwean context

Download full paper