Intangible culture vital, says Kaingu

INTANGIBLE cultural heritage programme initiated at the University of Zambia (UNZA) is a vital component of culture that needs thorough research, former Higher Education Minister has said.

Dr Kaingu said there was nothing sinister about wanting to know the elements of the African culture.

He said researchers and stakeholders involved in the process should educate people on the importance of culture.

Who has studied culture, said in an interview that society deserved to understand culture and other related practices.

Last week, controversy erupted after reports that UNZA was about to introduce courses in witchcraft.

But the institution™s spokesperson Damaseke Chibale dismissed that assertion, insisting that it was a misrepresentation of the programme, which would be sponsored by UNESCO.

But Dr Kaingu said witchcraft, including rituals, should be looked at in positive way.

The former Minister has however urged professional and stakeholders to clarify the misinformation generated by society on the well-intended degree programme in Intangible Cultural Heritage.

fiWe have museums that should guide the public because they have crafts which are part of culture and we cannot run away from the real issues.

According to UNESCO 2003 convention fiintangible cultural heritagefl means practices, representations, expressions, knowledge, skills, artefacts and cultural spaces associated with communities as part of their cultural heritage.