The University of Zambia has received US$340,000 to develop a Degree Programme to train students in witchcraft from the UNESCO. Named Intangible Cultural Heritage, the degree programme will be commencing lectures with a total of 20 students.
According to news reports, the Zambia National Commission for UNESCO revealed that the Intangible Heritage will include practices such as Witchcraft; Social Practices such as expression through music, Knowledge, skills as well as the instruments, objects, artefacts and rituals.
In November last year, Higher Education Minister Professor Nkandu Luo announced that Zambia should consider research and the study of witchcraft as a science that can be used productively for the benefit of the country.
Professor Luo said Zambian scientists can learn from the South African counterparts who have commenced studies in witchcraft in some universities.
“I could not help but think of witchcraft when I saw a mobile phone put into a box and it turned into a lady’s pant!” she noted. She made this known during the commemoration of the World Science Day for Peace and Development dubbed: ‘Recreating interest in science, technology and innovation’.
Allegations in Zambia
But then Government Spokesperson Kampamba Mulenga said Government was disappointed with media reports. The reports suggest it will consider research on how witchcraft can be used productively.
Ms Mulenga said the allegations are blatant falsehoods coming from people who have nothing good to offer to the nation.
She said there is a group of people that are spreading malicious statements through various media platforms; bent on destroying government’s image.
“Contrary to the allegations, President Lungu’s administration will always uphold Zambia’s status as a Christian nation. This is enshrined in the preamble of the constitution” she added.
Ms. Mulenga said it is common knowledge that Christianity and witchcraft are poles apart and cannot co-exist.
But in December last year, the Intergovernmental Committee for the Safeguarding of the Intangible Cultural Heritage which falls under UNESCO approved two International Assistance requests at the Intergovernmental Committee for the safeguarding of intangible cultural heritage held at the International Convention Centre (ICC), Jeju Province, Republic of Korea.
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In a statement that was issued by the Zambian Embassy in Paris, France, Uganda was granted US$ 232, 000. The Committee selected two projects in Bulgaria and Uzbekistan for the Register of Good Safeguarding Practices; which allows communities to share successful safeguarding programmes and activities.
Zambia’s project aims to strengthen the capacity for the safeguarding and management of intangible cultural heritage.
This project intended to develop and implement a degree programme in intangible cultural heritage at the University of Zambia.
Zambia was represented by the Country’s expert to the Intergovernmental Committee for the Safeguarding of the Intangible Cultural Heritage, Mr Munukayumbwa Munyima at the Intergovernmental Committee for the ICHin Jeju Province.
