Consult the article by Matobo, Makatsa and Obioha (2009) titled “Continuity in the Traditional

Question

Initiation Practice of Boys and Girls in Contemporary Southern Africa Society” to answer the
following question:
Are initiation schools important (or not) in our societies?
Substantiate your answer by providing a brief background (contextualisation) of initiation schools.
Also provide an ethnographic example from any community to support your stance.

Answer 1

Initiation schools play a significant role in many traditional African societies, serving as important rites of passage for young boys and girls as they transition into adulthood. These schools are typically run by elders or traditional healers and involve a series of rituals and teachings to instill cultural values, social norms, and traditional practices in the initiates.

In their article, Matobo, Makatsa, and Obioha (2009) discuss the continuity of traditional initiation practices for boys and girls in contemporary Southern Africa society. They highlight the importance of these schools in preserving cultural identity and promoting social cohesion within communities. Initiation schools are seen as crucial in passing down knowledge, skills, and values that are integral to the cultural heritage of a community.

One ethnographic example that illustrates the importance of initiation schools is the Xhosa community in South Africa. Among the Xhosa people, initiation schools for boys are known as "ulwaluko" and are considered a sacred and necessary tradition. Young boys undergo a period of seclusion in the mountains where they are taught about their cultural heritage, manhood rituals, and responsibilities. Initiates are also circumcised as a symbol of their transition into manhood.

Initiation schools in the Xhosa community are highly valued as they are believed to instill discipline, respect, and a sense of identity in young boys. The practice is also seen as a way to uphold traditional values and ensure the continuation of cultural practices from one generation to the next.

In conclusion, initiation schools are important in our societies as they play a vital role in preserving cultural traditions, promoting social cohesion, and facilitating the transition of young individuals into adulthood. It is through these schools that knowledge, values, and practices are passed down, ensuring the continuity of cultural heritage and identity.