Building a South African identity beyond race

SHAREEZ BAGARIA

THE recent violence at Centenary Secondary School, where black and Indian pupils clashed, has reignited concerns about racial tensions in South African schools. For a generation born after 1994, in a country that prides itself on democracy and unity, these incidents raise difficult questions. Why does racial violence persist in spaces meant for learning? And how do we begin to see ourselves as South African first, before we are black, Indian, coloured, or white?

The roots of violence in schools

South African schools have long struggled with violence, a reality deeply intertwined with broader social issues. Poverty, gangsterism, substance abuse, and fractured family structures all contribute to an environment where violence becomes a means of expression and survival. But when racial divisions fuel this violence, the wounds of our past feel far from healed.

At the heart of the issue is the reality that democracy did not erase structural inequalities. Many young people still grow up in communities where racial divisions remain stark - where apartheid-era spatial planning dictates their lived experiences, where economic disparities reinforce historical injustices, and where stereotypes about "the other" persist. Schools, rather than becoming spaces of integration, often mirror the tensions and inequalities of the society around them.

The failure of integration

One of the promises of post-apartheid South Africa was that young people would grow up without the racial prejudices of the past. However, simply being born after 1994 does not mean one automatically embraces a non-racial identity. Integration in many schools has been superficial - students of different races may sit in the same classrooms, but they do not necessarily form meaningful relationships. Social divisions remain, shaped by differences in language, culture, and economic class.

In many schools, there is a lack of intentional programs that foster unity and mutual understanding. Teachers are often ill-equipped to handle racial conflicts, and discussions about race, privilege, and identity are avoided rather than encouraged. The result is that when tensions flare, they quickly escalate into racial violence because there is no foundation of trust or shared identity to fall back on.

Becoming South African first

So, how do we move toward a South African identity that transcends racial labels? The answer lies in intentional efforts at every level of society.

1. Education beyond the curriculum

Schools must become places where students not only learn academic subjects but also engage in meaningful conversations about race, history, and identity. A South African identity cannot be built if young people do not understand each other's histories and lived realities. Programs that encourage dialogue, shared cultural experiences, and conflict resolution should be embedded in the school system.

2. Leadership that leads by example

School leaders and teachers must set the tone for inclusivity. Racism and prejudice must be confronted head-on, rather than ignored. Educators should be trained to mediate racial conflicts effectively, and schools should have clear policies that address racial discrimination and violence.

3. Breaking down social barriers

Schools should create environments where students interact beyond the classroom. Sports, arts, and extracurricular activities should be structured to promote real integration, not just coexistence. When young people work toward common goals—whether on the sports field or in a drama production - they begin to see each other as teammates rather than adversaries.

4. Challenging family and community narratives

Many young people inherit racial prejudices from their homes and communities. Parents, religious leaders, and community figures play a crucial role in shaping how children perceive those of other races. Schools can facilitate workshops and discussions that involve families, helping to challenge negative stereotypes and build a culture of inclusivity beyond the school gates.

5. Addressing economic and structural inequalities

Racial tensions in schools are often a symptom of deeper socio-economic issues. When students from different racial backgrounds feel they are competing for limited resources - whether it’s school facilities, academic opportunities, or even job prospects after graduation -resentment can grow. Government and private sector investments in education should prioritize equal opportunities for all, ensuring that no group feels marginalized or left behind.

The path forward

The vision of a united South Africa will not be realized simply because apartheid ended on paper. It requires active, ongoing efforts to build relationships, address inequalities, and foster a sense of shared belonging. The violence at Centenary Secondary School is a wake-up call: we cannot assume that racial unity will happen naturally. It must be cultivated by government, schools and parents collectively.

Shareez Bagaria is a Comensa-certified life coach and an EQ coach.

** The views expressed do not necessarily reflect the views of IOL or Independent Media.

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