ukuthunywa or thuma - Reimagining African epistemology

There is an important method of passing down useful skills that you still find in African households even today.
As kids, we often hated it, because it took us away from our games, watching TV, or general leisure time.

As Zulus, we refer to it as ukuthunywa or thuma – the English translation of ‘running errands’ does not adequately represent what it means, but it will do. I want to argue that this practice has traditionally been an important epistemological tool for producing and sharing knowledge.

As a child growing up in a family of farmers, for example, you are taught how to be a farmer through these ‘errands’.

You might start off with small requests, such as having to watch while the grown-ups or older children perform certain tasks; as time goes on, you are expected to take on more and more responsibilities in the family trade or even in helping neighbours and other community members.

Even when it came to storing and preserving knowledge, it was done in such a way that it was still easily accessible. It would be stored as rock art, in songs and performances, everyday crafts, and practices.

Nombulelo Shange - African indigenous knowledge systems: Not yet uhuru

There is a Sotho/Pedi/Tswana proverb to support this assertion ...Makhura a ngwana ke rongwa.

Mafura a ngwana ke go rongwa. This proverb just means it is a child’s portion and honor to serve. I don’t pay my children to do chores. Not yet. I believe their reward should be intrinsic for participating in the home. I also love that now that they have been trained. I can have some alone time while they take care of themselves for a bit. I can also send them to do rhings for me when I need to put my feet up

Mosalagae Advocate for Positive Parenting