The Department of Historical and Heritage Studies (DHHS) again celebrated Heritage month by collaborating with key stakeholders in the heritage sector. Representatives from the South African Heritage Resources Agency (SAHRA) were invited to address first year students in Heritage and Cultural Tourism (EFK) on different aspects of Heritage Management in South Africa on 12 September 2019. Mr Hannes Engelbrecht, who lectures the EFK 120 module that focus on the relationship between Heritage Conservation and Tourism, views this type of industry contact as a critical part of the learning process for students in Heritage and Cultural Tourism. 

This special lecture, was complimented with a seminar entitled: “My Culture, My Language, My Heritage”, later in the day. Representatives from the DHHS and SAHRA were joined by speakers from the National Heritage Council (NHC), the National Department of Tourism (NDT), the Department of Environment, Forestry and Fisheries (DEFF), the African World Heritage Fund (AWHF) and the Javett Art Centre at the University of Pretoria. The seminar reflected on the roles of the different organisations in society, as well as the more intangible ways in which we connect to our heritage: the emotions, expressions and meaning we attach to and interpret from heritage places and objects. 

The event highlighted not only the importance of heritage conservation, but the need for communication, collaboration, community and communities in order to develop and capitalise on the full potential of both the socio-cultural and financial benefits of South Africa’s rich heritage landscape.

Prof Karen Harris, the Head of the Department of Historical and Heritage Studies, said she was extremely glad that this collaborative project had been continued and looked forward to it going from strength to strength. She said it was "imperative that we keep open communication with the various heritage and tourism establishments for both the student body and research potential". 

SAHRA speakers