Empowering Future Generations: A Discussion on Parental Responsibility and Cultural Education

 

Empowering Future Generations: A Discussion on Parental Responsibility and Cultural Education

Okatimbu, Mbangu Salas Uarije

This discussion delves into the insightful conversation with Okatimbu, Mbangu Salas Uarije, on the crucial role parents play in shaping the future of their children. The emphasis is placed on imparting essential life skills, instilling cultural knowledge, and ensuring self-sufficiency. Join us as we explore the importance of preparing the younger generation to thrive independently, contributing meaningfully to their communities, and bridging the gap between formal education and practical life skills in various cultural contexts, particularly focusing on Ovaherero-speaking communities and those dependent on livestock.

On Sunday, November 19, 2023, I spent the morning seated, but later decided to take a stroll through the streets of Khomasdal. During my walk, I noticed a vehicle approaching me, initially thinking the driver might be intoxicated, given that it was a Sunday. As the car drew nearer, I recognized the driver as Okatimbu, the best friend of mine, Mbangu Salas Uarije. I anticipated that once he stopped, our conversation would be extensive, as he often imparts valuable life lessons.

Okatimbu, Mbangu Salas Uarije, proceeded to enlighten me on the importance of how we raise and educate our children. He emphasized that we must instil essential life skills in them from a young age, rather than waiting until they are grown. The objective is to empower them to be self-sufficient even in our absence. He discouraged the practice of solely introducing children to inheritance and insurance, as this may hinder their ability to sustain what is left for them.

He pointed out a common issue of having idle children in urban areas while seeking outside help for menial tasks. Okatimbu stressed that we, as parents, should prioritize teaching our children to work and, once employed, ensure they receive fair compensation. He provided a practical example for those who employ workers in their village homes, emphasizing the need for supervision by family members to ensure the proper care of livestock.

Citing an Otjiherero proverb, "ovinamwinyo vihepa eho romuni," he highlighted the significance of entrusting livestock to someone even in your absence, emphasizing the role of relatives in supervising workers. Okatimbu underscored the importance of training children, especially in areas such as Ovaherero-speaking communities, where livestock plays a central role. He acknowledged the value of formal education but insisted that children must also be acquainted with village life and capable of engaging in agricultural activities.

In essence, Okatimbu emphasized that the responsibility lies with parents to prepare their children for the future, enabling them to thrive independently and contribute meaningfully to their communities. He emphasized that any shortcomings in the behavior of our children are often a reflection of our failures as parents, stressing the need to rectify this by instilling valuable life skills and cultural knowledge in them.

The Himbacracy Philosopher