The film asks universal questions: How much violence is a child expected to endure to demand basic rights? What is the role of the teacher in a state of emergency? And can art exist alongside insurrection?
The film contrasts two forms of education: the oppressive, colonial system forced by the state and the liberating, consciousness-raising teaching of Mary Masombuka, who introduces students to Black Consciousness philosophy inspired by Steve Biko. Sarafina- -1992-