By Johnathan Paoli
Unisa has honoured nine esteemed anti-apartheid activists and distinguished alumni for their outstanding contributions to societal development at its Chancellor’s Calabash Awards ceremony.
Held under the theme “Reclaiming Africa’s Intellectual Futures”, the ceremony honoured individuals and organisations that have profoundly impacted society, advanced transformation and reinforced democracy.
This year marked a milestone with the introduction of the Liberation Struggle Hero/Heroine Award, recognising those who displayed extraordinary courage, leadership and dedication in the fight against oppression.
Judge Albie Sachs was recognised for his exceptional role in the negotiations that led to South Africa becoming a constitutional democracy, and struggle veteran Ruth First was honoured posthumously for her role in the fight against apartheid, as well as her contributions to promoting peace and good corporate governance.
The awards, launched in 2007, celebrate outstanding achievements across various categories, honouring individuals and entities that have significantly contributed to societal progress.
The Outstanding Educator Award was presented to the Education, Training and Development Practices Seta for its transformative contributions to skills development, research and education through bursary programmes and support for TVET college lecturers and university students.
The Outstanding Alumna Award recognised two exceptional women. Christine Ramon was honoured for her leadership in empowering women, championing diversity and combating poverty, and Innocentia Itumeleng Motau was recognised for advancing maritime sustainability and investment, and contributing to economic growth and job creation in the country.
The Unisa Robben Island Alumnus Award paid tribute to Bishop Stanley Mmutlanyane Mogoba for his theological contributions to peace, reconciliation and challenging apartheid. It was also awarded to Archbishop Njongonkulu Ndungane, for fostering inclusivity within the church, and advocating for marginalised groups, including women and HIV-positive individuals.
The Outstanding Public Service Award celebrated former statistician-general Pali Lehohla and acclaimed poet, author and folklorist Ntate Tsietsi Winston Dennis Mohapi for their significant contributions to government and society.
In her keynote address, Vice-Chancellor Prof. Puleng LenkaBula said the awards ceremony exemplified Unisa’s mission to honour its history, celebrate its present, and inspire its future, emphasising the transformative power of education and leadership.
Chancellor and former president Thabo Mbeki echoed these sentiments, highlighting the need for human capital and resources to sustain the university’s transformative mission.
“For the university to achieve what it must after its 150 years, it requires resources. I am very glad we are here today with people committed,” he said.
He said it remained important to consider where the university would be in the future, and praised its first woman VC.
The university said the awards reaffirmed its role as a beacon of inclusivity, excellence, and innovation, inspiring generations to build a brighter, more equitable future.
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