On 7 June 2024, Sigalagala National Polytechnic held a colorful Culture Day in Kakamega County to celebrate the essence of cultural heritage. Ann Mutsami, the Deputy Principal for Administration, said the institution had a rich culture that was valuable to the identity of the institution. In a statement during the celebration, Dean of Students Godfrey Ondele encouraged students to take pride in cultural activities, as this is the only way to identify themselves within society.
The Significance of Culture
For this, she focused on culture, regarding it as a key instrument that could be employed in the definition of identity and fostering unity. She said, “All cultures are valuable as they enrich our lives, broaden our perspectives, and foster understanding.” She emphasized how cultural diversity needs to be safeguarded and treasured, both within the precincts of the college and in the community at large.
Mutsami urged students to learn respect and tolerance of different customs and beliefs that people hold; that is the foundation of a harmonious society. The message was quite prudent, especially owing to the fact that Sigalagala National Polytechnic harbors students from diversified cultural backgrounds.
Celebrating Diversity
The Culture Day came with instances of activities showcasing the vivaciousness of the institution’s students in different traditions. On this front was the dancing, music performances, fashion catwalks, and an eating competition, just but a few. All this brought about a celebratory warmth between the students’ appreciation of each other’s culture and practices.
The event was spiced by a male hairdressing student identified to be Brian, today posing as a lady. His wit and confidence had the audience in full attention and in consequent highly elated cheers and applause, affirming the stance as all-inclusive and embracing for everyone.
Embracing Cultural Activities
She assured the students that participation in cultural activities was a noble exercise that brought both personal and community pride. The admission officer observed that the student’s rich diversity created a complex cultural environment at the college, a fact she considered to be cultivated and embraced.
The administration was clear: not just a heritage affair, but cultural activities bind them all into one cord of unity and respect amongst one another. They learn to respect and value their own and other people’s traditions through participation, thereby creating a more equal and cohesive community.
The Role of Culture in Education
The Sigalagala National Polytechnic Culture Day celebration is geared to remind students of the important role cultural education should play in the general development of learners. Such events help towards enabling students to bring a bigger picture of the world, include people, and prepare them to become global citizens who embrace and respect diversity.