Ubuntu is a philosophy based on the idea that all humanity is connected...
This philosophy originates in Southern Africa and serves as a foundation for education.
The Ubuntu philosophy invites the question as to how it could possibly ‘accommodate other cultures’ in efforts to recognize our collective humanity. We argue that the Ubuntu notion that ‘I am because we are’ can be developed into an ideal way of identity and belonging in a classroom. The wisdom of Ubuntu lies in the recognition that it is not possible to build healthy learning environments unless the human dignity of all members of that learning community is safeguarded. The philosophy does not try to create a uniform culture, but ‘a human culture’ that promotes respect, harmony, love, sharing and community.
Practicing Ubuntu unlocks the capacity of human culture in which both teacher and students’ express compassion, reciprocity, dignity, humanity and mutuality in the interests of learning, building and maintaining the learning community with togetherness.
Chinhanu, Chiedza Adelaide, and Seun Bunmi Adebayo. “Ubuntu in Education: Towards Equitable Teaching and Learning for All in the Era of SDG 4 - NORRAG-.”
Amongst the many pillars that make up Ubuntu, the following 3 are most important:
Empathy
Trust
Community