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For centuries, each new generation of Burundians
learned about their culture not through written records, but through
the oral tradition of the previous generation. Stories, sayings and
lessons, passed down from one generation to the next, conveyed not
only practical information for living, but also values and a sense
of the purpose of life.
Burundian culture is still largely oral; the
country has one of the world's lowest literacy rates. Although
education is subsidized and compulsory for primary school children
from ages 7 to 12, only about half the children in this age group
attend school. The low school attendance and the low literacy rate
are due, in part, to national instability and a shortage of schools,
teachers and supplies. The language of instruction in primary schools
is Kirundi, but French is also taught. |
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About 10% of young people, mostly boys, attend
secondary schools. Secondary education consists of two cycles: a
four-year program of basic studies, followed by a three-year program
to prepare students for work or university. Secondary education is
not compulsory and students are taught in both French and Kirundi.
The University of Bujumbura, founded in 1960,
is the leading institution of higher education. Most university classes
are given in French. The three main libraries in Burundi are located at
the University of Burundi, the French Cultural Centre in Bujumbura and
the Literature Centre in Gitega. |
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Did you know? |
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Although Burundi has several organizations that promote
women's rights, women are still under-represented in school enrolment and
their adult literacy rate is much lower than that of men.
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Years of conflict have disrupted education and
traumatized many young people. To deal with these problems, several
international organizations are helping adults and youth gain coping
skills. UNESCO offers ecological education aimed at women farmers. The
Peace Corps, an American agency, provides training in farming techniques
and environmental protection. The project Batissons la Paix/Gira
amahoro or "Let's Build Peace," developed by UNICEF and the Ministry
of Education, helps children and youth learn skills to resolve conflicts
peacefully and to cope with the stress of violent conflicts. UN volunteers
offer peace education, community development and health information.
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Did you know? |
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Abashingantahe was a long-standing common-law
system of justice practised among Burundians. Under this system, jurors
were trained to dispense justice to those who broke the community's laws
and codes of acceptable conduct.
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