Mpumalanga shines light on vital role of archives in the digital era
The significance of archives and record management took centre stage at the Annual Archives Awareness Week.
The importance of archives and the impacts of the digital era were addressed during the week-long Annual Archives Awareness Week hosted by the Mpumalanga Department of Culture, Sports and Recreation (DCSR).
The event brought together stakeholders to discuss topics under the theme, “Digital footprint: Archives and records management in the digital era”, which aims to raise awareness about preserving records and promoting effective archival practices.
The week kicked-off on Monday, May 5, with featured presentations and discussions on preserving national memory and promoting progress at the Mpumalanga Provincial Archives building.
The National Archives Advisory Council’s chairperson, Sibongile Ndzimande, explained the importance of preserving information for future generations and also offered guidance on how to safeguard important information.
Ndzimande said archives are a fundamental element of our country’s repository of knowledge, making it essential to raise awareness about their importance nationwide.
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The DCSR’s chief director of library and archives services, Sonti Mayinga, said there is a need to popularise the archival profession and also ensure engagement with communities on the importance of archives.
“We urge support from the private sector to work hand in hand with us to increase the number of libraries in the province because government alone is not able to reach all communities without partnerships and collaborations,” Mayinga said.
More discussions included topics such as: beyond paper – record management as a tool to sustain archival history; hidden histories and musical narratives of the people – uncovering untold stories; and archives and communities – safeguarding our shared histories.
Other featured experts in the field included a specialist in record management services, Dr Mphalane Makhura, who emphasised the importance of the Fourth Industrial Revolution in managing records.
“We live in rapidly evolving times and citizens need to be well equipped on digital technology for archiving information,” he said.
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Makhura said library services need to be enhanced to suit the digital age.
The event continued at the Tshwane University of Technology Mbombela Campus on May 6, Thaba Chweu Community Hall in Mashishing on May 7, Lilian Ngoyi Community Hall in Secunda on May 8 and Libangeni Community Hall in Vaalbank near Siyabuswa on May 9.
