Malvern Primary School pupils were treated to a historical and educational tour of Museum Africa, Joburg’s flagship history museum, in accordance with International Museum Day celebrations. The tour educated them on the significance of museums and the conservation of historical heritage, as well as the career prospects students can explore in the fields of museums and archaeology. Museum curators also demonstrated to learners how the sustainability of artefacts is maintained in a museum.
Chief Curator Phumeza Mandela said museums are more than just a place for ancient objects, but also tell stories of our identity.
“Celebrating International Museum Day meant recognising the vital role museums play in society. One of our objectives is to enrich young minds with culture and historic knowledge to help them paint a detailed picture of what they learn in class,” Mandela explained.
Lesego Mlambo, the Collections Manager at Museum Africa hopes learners will make a positive change in “normalising a museum-going culture and changing the societal perspective of museums”.
Following the tour of Museum Africa, which hosts the City’s largest collection of historical artefacts, excitement was palpable on the faces of learners as they interacted with the curators during a question-and-answer session to gain a better understanding of the origins of humankind and how people lived in ancient times.
International Museum Day is held annually on 18 May to raise awareness of the importance of museums as crucial cultural and educational institutions that promote diversity, equity, and inclusion through the exchange of different perspectives, cultures, and histories.
On the day, museums across the globe open their doors to visitors, offering free admission or special exhibits and events. It is a great opportunity to explore and learn about different cultures and histories, as well as to appreciate the beauty and creativity of art and artefacts.
Held in the heart of the Newtown Cultural Precinct, Joburg’s Museum Day was designed to raise awareness of the importance of museums in promoting cultural exchange, understanding, and cooperation.
Written by Getrude Mamabolo
SOURCED FROM THE CITY WEBSITE.
