The DBE and its partners, the National Heritage Council (NHC), South African National Parks (SANParks), South African Heritage Resources Agency (SAHRA), and the Department of Sport, Arts and Culture (DSAC) hosted the national rounds for the Heritage Education Schools Outreach Programme (HESOP) to celebrate our national heritage. HESOP took place at the iconic Kruger National Park, Skukuza from 6 – 10 October 2025.
The main objective of HESOP is to engage learners and educators in exploring and preserving South Africa’s rich historical and cultural heritage as part of the promotion of national identity. HESOP thus provides a platform for young people to become active participants in heritage preservation.
The 2025 HESOP brought together learners to deliver presentations regarding their research projects on national stage. The four-day programme featured research presentations on the following topics: Heritage as a strategic resource; Promotion of previously marginalised African languages; and Digitization of Heritage.
The last day of the event entailed an excursion by learners to the Phabeni-Albasini ruins, which was once an iconic trading post between 1858 and 1868. The excursion formed part of the learners’ learning experience and exposed them to early forms of trade and cultural exchanges that contributed immensely to South Africa’s rich social and economic history. Through the excursion learners experienced history alive. This made a connection between the classroom and real stories and places. The excursion was a stimulating experience for learners and allowed them to reflect on what they had learnt. In highlighting learner achievements, the DBE’s Ms Majorie Mashiane indicated that: “All learners are winners, by virtue of having made it to the National Level”. She further underscored the importance of learners considering careers in nature conservation and heritage, noting that preserving our culture and heritage depends on child and youth participation.
In his keynote address, Dr Thabo Manetse, CEO of the National Heritage Council, applauded educators and learners for their dedication and passion in the programme, and congratulated learners who excelled. He encouraged more schools to participate and inspired learners to consider careers in heritage and conservation and thereby contributing to South Africa’s rich cultural and natural heritage.
The event culminated in a Gala Dinner and Award Ceremony where Kimberly Technical High School from the Northern Cape emerged as the winners of HESOP 2025.