The University of South Africa (UNISA) has honoured nine esteemed anti-apartheid activists and distinguished alumni for their outstanding contributions to societal development at the prestigious UNISA Chancellor’s Calabash Awards ceremony, held at the Maslow Hotel in Sandton.

Introduced in 2007, the awards celebrate the exceptional accomplishments of UNISA alumni and other individuals who have made significant contributions to society.

Speaking at the event, former South African President and UNISA Chancellor, Dr. Thabo Mbeki, highlighted the importance of the awards.

“The awards…recognise the excellence and exemplary achievement of the alumni as well as other South Africans who contributed to shaping the futures in the service of humanity,” said Mbeki.

Mbeki also emphasised that the awards were part of the University’s initiatives to address the critical skills shortage in South Africa and the African continent. He noted the university’s commitment to producing qualified professionals equipped with the necessary skills and value systems to drive societal development and contribute to achieving critical development goals.

For the first time in the 17-year history of the awards, the university and its Chancellor presented the Liberation Struggle Hero/Heroine Award, which recognises persons who demonstrated exceptional courage, leadership, and dedication in the fight against oppression and injustice.

Justice Albie Sachs was recognized for his exceptional role in the negotiations that led to South Africa becoming a constitutional democracy. Struggle veteran Ruth First was honoured posthumously for her exceptional role in the fight against apartheid, as well as her contributions to promoting peace and good corporate governance.

UNISA Principal and Vice-Chancellor, Professor Puleng LenkaBula, highlighted the significance of this milestone, particularly in honoring female liberation activists.

“As the chancellor was looking into the recipients of the award…he recognized that we were always recognizing only the male liberation heroes and that it was imperative that we recognize women who were at the centre of agitating and fighting for our freedom and liberation” said LenkaBula.

“We are pleased to announce the inaugural recipients are Mrs. Ruth First, post humorously…” she added.

Professor LenkaBula also noted that the introduction of the award coincides with the 30th anniversary of democracy in South Africa, and highlighted that over the past 30 years, UNISA has been at the forefront of the country’s transformation, particularly in areas of research, science, and innovation.

The UNISA Robben Island Alumnus Award was presented to Bishop Dr. Stanley Mmutlanyane Mogoba for his exceptional contributions to the theology of peace and reconciliation and the fight against apartheid. It was also awarded to Archbishop Njongonkulu Ndungane for his role in combating apartheid, advocating for change within the Church, and championing the rights of women and HIV-positive individuals.

The Outstanding Public Service Award was presented to former Statistician General Dr. Pali Lehohla, recognizing his exceptional service in advancing statistical training, research, and applications in state planning. Professor Tsietsi Winston Dennis Mohapi was also honoured for his significant contributions to promoting African literature through writing, creating educational content, knowledge production, and facilitating conversations about the importance of African narratives and voices.

The Outstanding Educator Award was conferred upon ETDP SETA for their excellence in supporting skills development, education, and training, as well as providing bursaries for numerous lecturers and students in TVET colleges and universities.

For the Outstanding Alumna Award, Christine Ramon was celebrated for her exceptional contributions to the empowerment of women, the fight for diversity, and poverty alleviation. Innocentia Motau was honoured for her role in advancing South Africa’s maritime sustainability and investment, which have contributed to economic growth and job creation.