Dear Campus Community,

Mandela Day provides an opportunity to reflect on the life and legacy of President Nelson Rolihlahla Mandela and on the values that continue to shape South Africa's constitutional democracy.

"I am particularly moved that the University of the Western Cape, an institution which, under the courageous and wise stewardship of its Rector and Council, has thrown off the shackles of its apartheid origins. This University, among the youngest in this country, has nevertheless been a pace-setter for others by transforming itself into an institution that seeks to serve the majority of our people and to take its place among the builders of a new society that reflects our aspirations and values." - Address by President Nelson Mandela on being awarded the Degree of Doctor of Laws by the University of the Western Cape, 28 November 1990.

For the University of the Western Cape (UWC), this reflection carries particular significance. On 28 November 1990, UWC became the first South African university to confer an honorary doctorate on President Mandela following his release from prison on 11 February 1990. In accepting the honorary degree, he described UWC as "a household name in the democratic movement", acknowledging the University's contribution to the struggle for democracy.

The relationship between UWC and President Mandela was grounded in a shared commitment to justice, equality, democracy and human dignity. Throughout its history, UWC has sought to advance these values through teaching, research, public engagement and its contribution to the development of democratic South Africa.

Mandela Day has become a national and global call to service, encouraging individuals and organisations to contribute their time and skills to the benefit of others. While many observe the day by dedicating 67 minutes to community service, its broader purpose is to encourage sustained civic responsibility and active citizenship.

“Studying law is not simply about earning a degree; it is about advancing social justice and helping to build a more just and equal society, just as President Mandela devoted his life to doing." - Hayley Cloete

Hayley Cloete, a final-year LLB student, hopes to pursue a legal career dedicated to advancing justice and serving society. She chose to study at UWC because of the University's longstanding commitment to the values championed by President Mandela – a decision she says has only been reaffirmed as she reaches the final stages of her studies.

"Mandela Day reminds me of the spirit of Ubuntu and of the responsibility each of us has to make a positive difference in the lives of others. Real change often begins with small acts of kindness, compassion and service, and I hope to carry those values with me throughout my career," said Cloete. She added that UWC's historic connection to President Mandela gives special meaning to her studies.

"The fact that President Mandela received an honorary degree from my faculty makes me proud to be a UWC student and a student in the Faculty of Law. It reminds me that UWC has always sought to stand on the right side of history. It also reminds me of the honour and responsibility I carry as a future alumna. Studying law is not simply about earning a degree; it is about advancing social justice and helping to build a more just and equal society, just as President Mandela devoted his life to doing."

Craig Loubser, who works in the Office for Students with Disabilities, said he had once believed that Mandela Day is something which should exist only within South Africa.

“Nelson Mandela's legacy extends far beyond our borders, reminding us that investing in and nurturing young people is one of the greatest responsibilities we share.” - Craig Loubser

However, my time working within student support at UWC has profoundly changed that perspective. Nelson Mandela's legacy extends far beyond our borders, reminding us that investing in and nurturing young people is one of the greatest responsibilities we share. Madiba consistently emphasised the importance of empowering the youth, recognising them as our greatest resource and the architects of a better future. This is a principle I strive to carry with me—not only on Mandela Day, but every day of the year,” he explained. “If each of us commits to teaching, uplifting, respecting and supporting the youth in our own unique way, we create positive change that reaches far beyond ourselves. Our actions strengthen our communities, our provinces, our countries and ultimately the world. That is a responsibility—and a privilege—that belongs to every one of us.”

As members of the UWC community, we each have opportunities to contribute to the public good in different ways. Through our teaching, research, professional services, learning and community engagement, we can continue to support initiatives that strengthen our communities and expand opportunities for others.

On this Mandela Day, I encourage every member of our University community to participate in an act of service, however small, and to reflect on how we might continue to contribute to building a more just, inclusive and democratic society.

Yours sincerely,

Professor Robert Balfour
Rector and Vice-Chancellor