The Minister of Arts and Culture, Ms Lulu Xingwana invites media to the opening of the 6th annual National Oral History Conference. The promotion of social cohesion, nation building and national identity remains an important issue on the government agenda. Oral history plays a significant role in social cohesion and nation building.

The National Archives and Records Service of South Africa, Western Cape Archives and the Oral History Association of South Africa (OHASA) will host the 6th annual National Oral History conference from 13-16 October 2009 in Cape Town.

The conference presents an opportunity for oral historians and other stakeholders to discuss methodology, theory and contemporary trends in the practice of oral history. This year’s conference will take place under the theme: The politics of collecting and curating voices. About 35 local and international speakers will present papers at the conference. As part of the conference, there will be a craft exhibition.

The opening will take place as follows:

Date: 13 October 2009
Time: 8:30
Venue: The River Club and Conference Centre, Liesbeek Parkway, Observatory, Cape Town

Media enquiries & RSVP: Eric Mudzanani on 082 9400 927