OVERVIEW OF THE ENTITY
 

Curator Hereditatis: Custodian of our Heritage

The National Museum dates to 1877, when its collections and displays comprised mainly rarities from around the world. Since then, the Museum has developed into an institution of international stature, focusing on natural history, cultural history and art.

Intensive research is carried out in these varied disciplines, and valuable and important collections have been established. Through its displays and education programmes, the Museum renders a public service to its diverse audiences, engaging them in enjoyable and enlightening experiences and enriching the learning opportunities of all individuals.

The Museum Today

The Museum currently includes 13 research departments (both Natural Sciences and Human Sciences), an Art Museum, Education Department, Information Services section / Library, an Administration section, and two technical departments. More than 120 people are employed at the National Museum and its satellites. The Museum offers a comprehensive, curriculum-based Education Programme, with various activities during school terms. It also consist of 5 satellite museums, Oliewenhuis Art Museum, First Raadsaal Museum, Wagon Museum, Freshford House Museum and Florisbad Research Station.

MISSION & VISION

MISSION

To provide heritage resources and an enjoyable experience and an invaluable tourism resource to all people through quality research, conservation, education and exhibitions.

VISION

To be known as the best heritage centre in Africa.

VALUES

The Museum is driven by the principles of Excellence, Professionalism, Respect, Co-operation, Teamwork, Commitment & Passion, Innovation and Community empowerment.

LEGISLATIVE MANDATE

The National Museum is a Declared Cultural Institution resorting under the National Department of Sport, Arts and Culture.

The National Museum was established in terms of section 3 of the Cultural Institutions Act, 1998 (Act No. 119 of 1998) and in terms of section 5 it is governed by a Council appointed by the Minister of Arts and Culture.

KEY MANDATES/OBJECTIVES

Custodianship: To systematically collect, document, preserve, and restore examples of natural history, cultural history, and art spanning from prehistory to the present.

Research and Study: To conduct high-quality scientific research across its 13 research departments and make this information accessible to the public.

Exhibitions and Education: To promote heritage awareness by providing educational programmes, quality exhibitions, and an invaluable tourism resource.