Abstract
M.Ed. (Multiculturalism and Education)
This project will endeavour to turn misconceptions of the past into mutual trust, understanding and respect for each of the population groups involved. It is hypothesized that: Intergroup contact can help refine information related to stereotypes and prejudice (Engels, 1993:1). Engels (1993:1) further argues that "intergroup contact alone is not sufficient to improve intergroup relationships and counter prejudices permanently". This research endeavours to probe into the possibility of reducing prejudice by creating a situation in which juveniles from different population groups will interact and engage in
communication. To this, Czula (1979:31), contends that "only the type of contact that leads people to do things together is likely to result in changed attitudes". As a result, non-racial extra-curricula activities have been organised to provide a common ground where interpersonal and intergroup encounters will take place. Such an encounter is meant to instill in the youth (i.e. high school students, black and white) respect and
understanding for other cultural groups irrespective of their pigmentation.
In preparation for an integrated, multicultural education system which does not deny cultural plurality, it is necessary to prepare our youth for the advent of such a system by
exposing them to a situation in which they will learn about each other's perceptions. It is hoped that this will enable students to rid themselves of unfounded misconceptions by
laying the ground for them to acquire knowledge about each other and share matters of common concern, in order to bridge the chasm which exists between them.