World over the most common four principle educational approaches in effect are Perennialism, Essentialism, Progressivism, and Reconstructionism.
Perennialism refers to the focus is on teaching ideas that are constant, unchanging.
Essentialists believe in the sanctity of academic rigor.
Progressivism focuses on active, not passive learning; while Reconstructionists attempt to guide students through a path of social reform.
Our Founding
Philosophy
The core belief of WEL is Ubuntu. Ubuntu translated in its essence to mean “I am because we are”. This philosophy, which traces its roots to Africa, is based on the idea that all humanity is connected. The thinking forms part of many African belief systems and serves as a foundation for education. The transformative philosophy delves into the symbiotic relationship between a person and community.
Ubuntu at its core is deeply interconnected to the role of women in education; and their natural ability to nurture and empower. Ukama (translated to relationality), a sister philosophy of Ubuntu, implies a harmonious oneness. It urges one to be thoughtful of the impact of actions on everyone including the environment and encourages mindful thinking and communal decision making.
Ubuntu and Ukama foster the spirit of humanness, generosity, openness, interdependence, and consensus. They enrich connection to the cosmos, to the community, to cultures, to the past, present and future generations. At WEL, we go to the very heart of these philosophies of education – to these inspirational principles of ‘Ubuntu’ and ‘Ukama’, which we believe are the cornerstones of learning
