, PLEASE USE THIS DOCUMENT AS A GUIDE ONLY
QUESTION 1: UBUNTU
1. Would you say that Ubuntu still exists even today? Give examples to support your view.
Yes, I would argue that Ubuntu still exists today, although its manifestation has evolved and adapted
to the complexities of modern society. While traditional markers of Ubuntu, such as the giving of
cattle, are less common, the core principles of humanity, compassion, and community are still
present and actively practiced.
The study guide itself asks this question in Activity 1.1, prompting students to consider its continued
existence (AFL1502, Study Guide, p. 10). The guide acknowledges that Ubuntu "continues to exist
and to operate even today," but also stresses the "need to put things into context since they have
changed with the passage of time" (AFL1502, Study Guide, p. 10).
Examples to support this view include:
Community-Based Support Systems: The principle of communal support is still alive in the
form of stokvels, burial societies, and savings clubs. These organizations are rooted in the
Ubuntu ideal of helping one another and fostering a caring and sharing relationship, which the
guide describes as a key aspect of Ubuntu (AFL1502, Study Guide, p. 11). Their "cardinal
objective is not gain, but humanitarian or ubuntu" (AFL1502, Study Guide, p. 12).
The Spirit of Generosity: In many communities, people still practice the principle of sharing
what they have with those who have less. The study guide mentions that "for those who have to
share with those who do not have" (AFL1502, Study Guide, p. 12) is an act of Ubuntu. This
can be seen in efforts like food drives, community fundraisers for families in need, and
assisting neighbors in times of crisis.
The Symbolism of Ubuntu in Modern Institutions: The widespread use of the word "Ubuntu"
in business names (e.g., Ubuntu Security, Ubuntu Builders) and the philosophy's role in
national reconciliation demonstrate its enduring relevance. The guide notes that former
President Nelson Mandela is a "living example" and a "symbolic icon of ubuntu" for his
forgiveness and lack of bitterness (AFL1502, Study Guide, p. 9).
Persistent Collective Values: The African saying "umfazi uzalela omnye" (one woman's child
is another woman's child) still reflects a collective approach to raising children and caring for
community members, a concept that underpins the very existence of an Ubuntu environment
(AFL1502, Study Guide, p. 9).
However, it is important to recognize that factors like urbanization, crime, and political instability
have challenged these principles. The guide itself points out that "with the escalating crime in our
country, a stranger cannot be easily trusted anymore" (AFL1502, Study Guide, p. 12). This shows
that while Ubuntu exists, it often does so against a backdrop of modern challenges that can make it
difficult to practice.
QUESTION 1: UBUNTU
1. Would you say that Ubuntu still exists even today? Give examples to support your view.
Yes, I would argue that Ubuntu still exists today, although its manifestation has evolved and adapted
to the complexities of modern society. While traditional markers of Ubuntu, such as the giving of
cattle, are less common, the core principles of humanity, compassion, and community are still
present and actively practiced.
The study guide itself asks this question in Activity 1.1, prompting students to consider its continued
existence (AFL1502, Study Guide, p. 10). The guide acknowledges that Ubuntu "continues to exist
and to operate even today," but also stresses the "need to put things into context since they have
changed with the passage of time" (AFL1502, Study Guide, p. 10).
Examples to support this view include:
Community-Based Support Systems: The principle of communal support is still alive in the
form of stokvels, burial societies, and savings clubs. These organizations are rooted in the
Ubuntu ideal of helping one another and fostering a caring and sharing relationship, which the
guide describes as a key aspect of Ubuntu (AFL1502, Study Guide, p. 11). Their "cardinal
objective is not gain, but humanitarian or ubuntu" (AFL1502, Study Guide, p. 12).
The Spirit of Generosity: In many communities, people still practice the principle of sharing
what they have with those who have less. The study guide mentions that "for those who have to
share with those who do not have" (AFL1502, Study Guide, p. 12) is an act of Ubuntu. This
can be seen in efforts like food drives, community fundraisers for families in need, and
assisting neighbors in times of crisis.
The Symbolism of Ubuntu in Modern Institutions: The widespread use of the word "Ubuntu"
in business names (e.g., Ubuntu Security, Ubuntu Builders) and the philosophy's role in
national reconciliation demonstrate its enduring relevance. The guide notes that former
President Nelson Mandela is a "living example" and a "symbolic icon of ubuntu" for his
forgiveness and lack of bitterness (AFL1502, Study Guide, p. 9).
Persistent Collective Values: The African saying "umfazi uzalela omnye" (one woman's child
is another woman's child) still reflects a collective approach to raising children and caring for
community members, a concept that underpins the very existence of an Ubuntu environment
(AFL1502, Study Guide, p. 9).
However, it is important to recognize that factors like urbanization, crime, and political instability
have challenged these principles. The guide itself points out that "with the escalating crime in our
country, a stranger cannot be easily trusted anymore" (AFL1502, Study Guide, p. 12). This shows
that while Ubuntu exists, it often does so against a backdrop of modern challenges that can make it
difficult to practice.
