HED4804
ASSIGNMENT 1 SEMESTER 1 2025
UNIQUE NO.
DUE DATE: APRIL 2025
, HED4804
Assignment 1 Semester 1 2025
Unique Number:
Due Date: April 2025
Philosophy in Education
Glossary of Key Terms in the Philosophy of Education
1. Decolonialisation
Decolonialisation in education refers to the process of dismantling colonial influences
that have shaped education systems, curricula, and knowledge production. Historically,
many African countries inherited Western education systems that marginalised
indigenous knowledge and prioritised Eurocentric perspectives. Philosophers such as
Frantz Fanon and Ngũgĩ wa Thiong’o have been vocal about the need to decolonise
knowledge by integrating African epistemologies, languages, and histories into
education (Fanon, 1963; wa Thiong’o, 1986).
Over time, the conversation around decolonialisation has evolved, particularly in South
Africa with movements such as #RhodesMustFall and #FeesMustFall, which called for
the decolonisation of universities (Mbembe, 2016). Some argue that decolonisation is
essential for cultural identity and social justice, while others worry that it could lead to
the rejection of valuable global knowledge. In South African education, decolonialisation
remains a pressing issue, influencing curriculum reforms and pedagogical approaches
to ensure that learning is more inclusive and reflective of African realities.
2. Ubuntu
Ubuntu is an African philosophical concept that emphasises human interconnectedness,
compassion, and collective well-being. It is often summarised as "I am because we are,"
ASSIGNMENT 1 SEMESTER 1 2025
UNIQUE NO.
DUE DATE: APRIL 2025
, HED4804
Assignment 1 Semester 1 2025
Unique Number:
Due Date: April 2025
Philosophy in Education
Glossary of Key Terms in the Philosophy of Education
1. Decolonialisation
Decolonialisation in education refers to the process of dismantling colonial influences
that have shaped education systems, curricula, and knowledge production. Historically,
many African countries inherited Western education systems that marginalised
indigenous knowledge and prioritised Eurocentric perspectives. Philosophers such as
Frantz Fanon and Ngũgĩ wa Thiong’o have been vocal about the need to decolonise
knowledge by integrating African epistemologies, languages, and histories into
education (Fanon, 1963; wa Thiong’o, 1986).
Over time, the conversation around decolonialisation has evolved, particularly in South
Africa with movements such as #RhodesMustFall and #FeesMustFall, which called for
the decolonisation of universities (Mbembe, 2016). Some argue that decolonisation is
essential for cultural identity and social justice, while others worry that it could lead to
the rejection of valuable global knowledge. In South African education, decolonialisation
remains a pressing issue, influencing curriculum reforms and pedagogical approaches
to ensure that learning is more inclusive and reflective of African realities.
2. Ubuntu
Ubuntu is an African philosophical concept that emphasises human interconnectedness,
compassion, and collective well-being. It is often summarised as "I am because we are,"
