Decolonizing the Computing Curriculum: Aligning Stakeholders for an African-Centric Education
Sonwabo Mzolisi Mdwaba, Attlee Munyaradzi Gamundani, Nobert Rangarirai Jere, Relebohile Bulane, Tanaka Last Jere, Nation Madikiza · 2023
Western ideologies have largely influenced the computing curriculum in Africa at the expense of African students and their cultural heritage. This paper argues for the decolonisation of the computing curriculum to reflect the needs and interests of African students and prepare them for success in the 21st century. Decolonising the computing curriculum is important for several reasons. First, it will help to foster cultural pride and identity in African students. Second, it will bridge the generational gap between African youth and their elders. Third, it will ensure that African youth are well-equipped to lead the continent into a future steeped in authenticity. Human-centred computing (HCC) is a decolonial approach to computing that emphasises the importance of culture, community, and sustainability. HCC can be used to create computing curricula that are more relevant and accessible to African students. The paper concludes by calling for stakeholders to develop a decolonised computing curriculum for Africa. This curriculum should be based on the principles of HCC and reflect African students' needs and interests.