​On Wednesday, 25 March 2026, the City of Johannesburg's Arts, Culture and Heritage Directorate hosted engaging educational tours at the Roodepoort Museum. Grade R learners were transported back in time, exploring a world that existed centuries before they were born—right where they stood.​

Learners from Magic Faith Kids' Club in Roodepoort, as well as Injabulo Thabo Day Care and Pre-Primary School, enjoyed guided museum tours, creative learning activities and a supplementary booklet titled Roodepoort Rocks. The programme also included fun sporting activities to keep the young visitors entertained.

Museum representative Rebecca Modise captivated the learners with stories of life before the discovery of gold in Johannesburg, highlighting Roodepoort's role in this historic turning point that transformed a small farming town into what is now known as the City of Gold.

She guided them through an old farmhouse featuring ox wagons and lanterns, explaining how candles were once made at home. The tour also unpacked how the gold discovery led to wealth creation, improved infrastructure and the transition from simple farmhouses to more modern homes.

The programme offers an enriching experience for early childhood development (ECD) learners, sparking curiosity about Roodepoort's golden past while supporting key educational outcomes.

Member of the Mayoral Council for Community Development Cllr Thapelo Amad praised the museum's role in preserving and sharing the country's history with communities.

“A country that does not invest in its youth will not have a future for them to inherit. It gives me great pleasure to see the Roodepoort Museum continuing to play a role in teaching our young ones about their country and its rich history.

“My message to learners and teachers is to absorb as much as possible and then share that knowledge with others to instil a sense of pride and belonging in this beautiful country we call home," said Cllr Amad.

Magic Faith Kids' Club principal Dumela Machongwe expressed her delight at the learners' exposure to history.

“I often visit the museum with my own family, so I could not pass up this opportunity. It is important for children to understand their history and what has shaped the world they live in. They must know that life is not just about cartoons and iPads—many sacrifices were made for them to enjoy the comforts they have today," she said.

Written by Maseipati Tsotsotso
26/03/2026

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