The Eastern Cape Department of Education (ECDoE) over the past weekend hosted Inkciyo Cultural Camp at Kids Beach in the Buffalo City Education District which focused on cultural preservation, youth empowerment, and promoting traditional values amongst learners.

Inkciyo formerly known as Indoni according to history originates from KwaZulu-Natal where the Eastern Cape was always invited to participate and to showcase some of its cultures. According to Ntombizovuyo Myendeki who is a Traditionalist and Inkciyo facilitator, showcasing AmaXhosa, AbaThembu and AmaMpondo cultures when invited to KZN was what motivated the EC to start its own similar initiative.

This was when Inkciyo was born and officially launched in March earlier this year. Attending this year’s event were learners from Amathole East, Amathole West, Buffalo City, Chris Hani, Nelson Mandela, OR Tambo Coastal and Joe Gqabi Districts who were given a chance to showcase their talents through learner engagements in various activities such as Inkciyo/Indoni preamble, singing of National Anthem, participating in the Inkciyo/Indoni Pledge, and engaging in dialogues on the Bill of Rights and Responsibilities.

Funeka Jwaii who is the Senior Education Specialist for Learner Enrichment responsible for organising the event said that some of the objectives of the initiative is to promote democratic values, nation-building, and a sense of responsibility among learners. “Inkciyo seeks to address issues such as teenage pregnancy by instilling cultural values and practices. Through Inkciyo, learners gain a deeper understanding of national symbols, their rights and responsibilities, and the importance of respect.”, said Jwaii.

Asekho Dambuzi, an 18-year-old learner from Cunningham Senior Secondary in Amathole East District said that Inkciyo has taught him to respect himself and everyone around him. “I used to abuse alcohol but now I have stopped drinking and smoking completely and this has made me a better person” said Dambuza also attributing his success of winning the crown for the Prince of Indoni in his Discrict to quitting alcohol and smoking. “I advise anyone who would want to join Indoni to join regardless of what other people say” added Dambuzi.

Nonzuzo Sigcau who is the Queen of AmaXhosa and a leader of Inkciyo/Indoni in the Eastern Cape applauded all the learners who formed part of the camp and formally invited them to another Inkciyo Camp that will be taking place in Nqadu Great Place next month. “Facilitators, teachers and learners must soldier on and push this initiative for generations to come as it is playing a significant role in preserving cultural heritage while empowering the youth to take pride in their identities and responsibilities” said a proud Sigcau.