Syrvia Sheya
Namibia has a rich linguistic and cultural diversity. However, young people are becoming increasingly estranged from their indigenous languages and customs.
The preservation of Namibia’s distinctive legacy is threatened by this trend, which is alarming. There are several interrelated reasons for this disengagement, including the complexities of post-colonialism, globalisation and the impact of Western media.
One major problem is the belief among young Namibians that modernisation and embracing one’s cultural identity are mutually exclusive. It has become a norm to find young people who are unable to communicate in their native languages, but they are well-versed in English. Culture is fundamentally shaped by language. Thus, the prevalence of colonial languages in academic settings and administrative functions serves as a challenge for youth who want to preserve their cultural heritage.
The choice of adopting a language that is widely spoken or using our native language further complicates identity development. The basis of cultural practices and values is weakened by this change, which also diminishes linguistic diversity.
The attraction of Western pop culture which frequently overshadows the importance of our Namibian traditions is another contributing element.
The younger generation finds it difficult to value and celebrate their cultural heritage because they are constantly exposed to foreign media that promotes Western lifestyles. Most young people also often navigate hybrid identities, blending elements of their cultural background with modern influences.
Although there is not a single, universal strategy for language and culture preservation, there are several ways which can be utilised to address this challenge. Education is an important factor that can be used to incorporate cultural studies into the school curriculum by teaching cultural and linguistic histories and practices. This will foster a profoundly positive effect on the learner’s sense of belonging.
Involving the community is equally important. A sense of pride and belonging can be fostered by encouraging young individuals to participate in activities which honour Namibian cultures, such as storytelling sessions, workshops and festivals. It will be beneficial to host these activities across all towns to accommodate all the youngsters. This will assist in closing the generational divide via mentoring programmes, wherein our elders impart knowledge and customs to their younger counterparts by questioning the status quo and embracing ideas within our cultural heritage.
Using digital channels to promote Namibian languages and cultures can be a useful strategy in the modern era of technology. Cultural preservation can be made more approachable and interesting to young people by developing online resources, language learning applications and social media campaigns.
In conclusion, wide, diverse strategies are needed to address the challenge of preserving Namibia’s rich cultural tapestry amongst its youth. We can contribute to ensuring that our customs and languages survive in the contemporary world by embracing digital platforms, integrating cultural education and encouraging community involvement.
*Syrvia Sheya is a writer and a linguistic final-year student at the University of Namibia. The views expressed here are her own.