Ubuntu in health care: Setting the tone for an interdisciplinary African epistemology

International Conference on HIV/AIDS, STDs, & STIs

October 24-25, 2013 Holiday Inn Orlando International Airport, Orlando, FL, USA

Rachel Tsakani Lebese

Accepted Abstracts: J AIDS Clin Res

Abstract :

T he purpose of this paper is to contribute on the understanding of the ancient concept of Ubuntu. The authors explore Ubuntu perspectives employing an interdisciplinary professional approach within the health care environment, with special reference to the professions of Nursing and Social Work. The paper draws from five South African leaders of repute. A comparative analysis of the latter is done, and the themes that emerged from the exercise inform the ensuing discussion. The authors cite seven African countries to elucidate the African-ness of Ubuntu and to validate the notion that the seeds of Ubuntu that were planted over the centuries by our African ancestors are traceable within the context of this interdisciplinary African epistemology. Authors demonstrate how health care workers can use Ubuntu to inform their service-delivery practice approaches. Moreover, Ubuntu resonates with every fiber of our being as Africans. This paper draws its conclusions on the latter context and understanding

Biography :

Rachel Tsakani Lebese has completed his Ph.D. at the age of 51 years from University of Venda, South Africa. She is a senior Lecturer at the same university. She has published more than 21 papers in reputed journals and serving as an editorial board member of two accredited journals in South Afric