The Department of Sports, Arts and Culture has vowed to support plans aimed to transform the country’s museums.
Minister Gayton McKenzie used his address during the Heritage Sector Bosberaad in Cape Town, to implore the sector’s practitioners and experts to compile a transformation strategy of museums which he said the Department will support
He also used the engagement to ascertain himself with the current state of museums in the country, as well as challenges faced by the sites’ management.
McKenzie believes that the refurbishment of museums will not only strengthen social cohesion and community participation but will also accelerate global investments.
“Museums and other heritage institutions all play an important role in societal development by providing access to knowledge and providing environments where people can be inspired creatively and learn to think innovatively.
These institutions not only research and exhibit social, cultural and natural phenomena, but can also influence behaviour by providing access to information or taking a stand on issues.
The importance of intangible culture has been recognised and has opened new avenues in collecting research and public programmes,” said the Minister.
Despite the government’s fiscal constraints, McKenzie is adamant that partnerships with the private sector and other partners in the creative fraternity, will better position them to generate funds needed for various projects.
