More than three decades after the dawn of democracy, South African schools are still fighting a quiet battle.
Despite successive curriculum overhauls, from OBE to CAPS and the IEB, classrooms across the country continue to face a fundamental tension: How do we produce competitive global citizens while still honouring and celebrating African knowledge? To make matters more complex, the ripples of global conflicts, rising nationalist rhetoric, and movements like Black Lives Matter and Rhodes Must Fall have filtered directly into school corridors. Left with inadequate tools to navigate these polarised identities, students are experiencing fracture rather than a sense of belonging.
Looking to tackle this urgent crisis head-on, St Benedict’s College has announced the return of its annual Embrace Symposium, taking place on 4 and 5 June 2026.
This year’s theme is a direct call to action: “Let’s Meet Under the Tree: Using Indigenous Knowledge Systems and Pedagogy as Pathways to Social Healing in Education.”
Moving Beyond the Theory
For the organisers, returning to Indigenous Knowledge Systems (IKS) isn’t about looking backward—it’s about taking a definitive step forward.
“Embrace 2026 makes a bold and considered argument,” says the planning committee. “A rigorous, honest re-engagement with Indigenous Knowledge Systems is one of the most important steps forward available to South African educators today.”
Crucially, the 1.5-day symposium is designed to move past academic theory and give teachers practical, real-world tools. Delegates will explore tangible ways to transform their school communities, looking closely at:
- Pedagogical approaches: Rethinking how subjects are taught.
- Institutional language: Elevating African languages and cultural significance.
- Social and disciplinary policy: Creating fairer, more inclusive school cultures.
- School identity: Even rethinking what constitutes a 21st-century African school uniform.
The ultimate goal is for every attendee to leave with the language, knowledge, and confidence to drive real social healing back at their own schools.
A Powerful Lineup of Voices
To bridge the gap between academic theory and on-the-ground experience, Embrace 2026 has assembled a diverse panel of South African experts:
- Tebogo Maneli: Upper school History teacher at Lebone II College and convener of the DEIBS (Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, Belonging, and Social Justice) Cluster in Gauteng.
- Chris Harrison: An admitted attorney and teacher championing the power of multilingualism to build a cohesive society.
- Prof Connie Makgabo: Academic Head at SANTS (South African National Tutor Services), dedicated to promoting African languages.
- Dan Corder: Broadcaster, political commentator, and host of The Corder Report, bringing sharp analysis to South African current affairs.
- Erick Kabongo: A psychologist, academic, and educator committed to the holistic development of young men and educational transformation.
The event will ditch traditional, dry lecture formats in favour of dynamic speaker sessions, facilitated breakaways, and workshop-style discussions designed to spark genuine dialogue.
A Legacy of Change
Since it started in 2019, the Embrace Symposium has grown into a landmark event on the South African education calendar. It serves as a vital meeting point for teachers, pupils, and experts who care about diversity, inclusion, and social justice.
For educators invested in transformation and the well-being of their students, this year’s symposium promises to be an unmissable space for inspiration and growth.
Event Details & Registration
- Dates: 4 & 5 June 2026 (1.5 days)
- Venue: St Benedict’s College
- Tickets: Spaces are limited.
- How to register: Visit www.stbenedicts.co.za to secure your place.
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