Journey to discover history

By: Nkcubeko Balani

Robben Island was declared a museum in the year 1997 and since then initiatives surrounding it have been developed. Isivivane Solwazi Spring School is a yearly initiative that requires learners from all the country to come together and learn more about the island. Living around people from different cultures was indeed overwhelming, especially on the iconic island. Each year has a different theme. 2010’s theme was xenophobia and this year’s theme was Conservation and Restoration of Tangible and Intangible Heritage.

Staring at a cell that once belonged to a man who became South Africa’s first black president was stunning.

We participated in knowledge hunt that was fun and informative. We got to learn more about the people who are associated with Robben Island. Visiting places like the maximum security prison meant that little things I never knew were learnt. For example, many believed that Presindent Jacob Zuma left school in Grade 7 but few know that he may have been part of the study office they had on the island and he may have graduated there.

What also stood out for me was the Kramat. A Krama is a burial shrine and the one on the island was created to remember a Muslim hero who was once a prisoner at the maximum security prison. Muslims pass there regularly to pay their tribute.

We had a cultural evening that showcased the beauty and diversity of South African cultures. It was an experience not to be forgotten. This experience taught me that some things aren’t what they seem and that at times we might look at the bigger elephant when there is a small more powerful ant. For example, people were agitated to see Mr Nelson Mandela’s cell when other people like Marcus Solomon were also prisoners there.  

It was an enjoyable trip that will be open to other Grade 10 learners next year.

Nkcubeko Balani is a Grade 10 learner at Mary Waters High School, Grahamstown. He was part of the group of learners representing Albany Museum.

Source: Upstart, November 2011