Use of information communication technology as a tool for preserving Tshivenda Proverbs

Abstract

This study explored the use of Information Communication Technology in preserving the Tshivenḓa proverbs. From time immemorial, proverbs were valuable cultural practices of oral tradition, which were used to empower the young generation on morals, norms, behaviour, education, and other African values. It has been noticed that due to modernisation and lack of preservation, proverbs have been abounded by the majority of Vhavenḓa youths, which seems to be resulting in moral degeneration because youth no longer acquire moral knowledge and skills through proverbs. The overall objectives were to examine different ways of gaining knowledge and understanding about proverbs and Information Communication Technology, to explore the role of information Communication Technology in preserving proverbs within Vhavenḓa communities, and to explore strategies to mitigate challenges associated with the preservation of Tshivenḓa proverbs through the use of Information Communication Technology. The study was grounded in socio-cultural and diffusion of innovation theories. This study intended to adopt a qualitative research design. Therefore, participants were selected using Purposive and snowballing samplings. Furthermore, semi-structured and focus group discussions were used to collect data. Thematic data analysis was used to analyse data. The envisioned findings of the study could be convenient in preserving the Vhavenḓa proverbs.