Bantustans were a series of ethnic enclaves created in South Africa during the apartheid era. These were areas designated for black South Africans to live, work and govern themselves. Teaching students about Bantustans is an important step in understanding how the apartheid regime was systematically designed to marginalize black South Africans.
Bantustans were intended to be self-governing and economically strong black homelands that could potentially become independent states once canonized as separate nations from South Africa. However, the reality was that these enclaves were some of the poorest, underdeveloped areas in South Africa. Because they were not recognized as sovereign nations, these areas were not eligible for aid from other countries, leaving them without the necessary resources to grow and develop.
Teaching students about Bantustans will not only expose them to the injustices that took place during apartheid but will also help them understand the importance of acknowledging and preserving different cultures without marginalizing them. Through this topic, students will also understand the effects of policies that downgrade portions of society based on their skin color, gender or ethnicity.
Educators can teach students about Bantustans through a variety of methods, including films, lectures, and discussions. In the classroom, teachers can use documentary films like Rise of the Rainbow Nation South Africa or Nelson Mandela Speaks: Forging a Democratic, Non-Racial South Africa to give students a deeper understanding of the history and impact of Bantustans.
Furthermore, teachers can provide students with examples of social activism, highlighting how various radical political movements worked to end the apartheid regime. Through these examples, students can see how perseverance and dedication can promote change, and that an individual’s actions can make a significant difference in society.
