Local responses to externally induced cultural change

The introduction of formal education in Bashada (southern Ethiopia)

Abstract

Like many of their ethnic neighbours, the Bashada are agro-pastoralists and have been living relatively isolated from the modern world until one or two decades ago. Recently more and more changes have been introduced from the outside which are having an increasing impact on the daily lives of the people. One of these transformations is the introduction of formal education. The construction of numerous schools and increasing pressure by the government to enrol more children, especially girls, is forcing the Bashada to respond and react. The paper shows that so far the Bashada have been able to be selective in accepting what they consider useful and in rejecting what seems harmful to their children, as well as to the core values of their culture.