The potential of cultural heritage education to strengthen social participation based on the knowledge and opinions of local people

Abstract

The article defines culture as the distinctive way of life, thought, and traditions that shape a society’s identity. Cultural heritage education aims to preserve and transmit these values to future generations by engaging with historical sites, language, local traditions, and cultural diversity. Social participation, understood as individuals’ active involvement in societal processes, plays a crucial role in safeguarding cultural elements, while cultural heritage education provides the knowledge needed to sustain them. Together, they strengthen belonging and responsibility toward cultural preservation. The study investigates the relationship between cultural heritage education and social participation, examining whether such education enhances community involvement. Residents of Nicosia, Famagusta, Kyrenia, and Güzelyurt participated, using a structured interview form for data collection. Findings show that participants possess limited knowledge of cultural heritage education yet receiving it increases awareness and fosters greater social participation.