On May 11, 1990, the world watched as South Africa's future first democratic president, Nelson Mandela, walked out of the then-named Victor Verster Prison a free man.
This moment, etched in the memories of millions, was a testament to the enduring struggle for freedom. Nine months later, another significant milestone was achieved when the University of the Western Cape (UWC) became the first higher education institution to award Mandela an honorary doctorate.
According to UWC's archive, the citation for Mandela's honorary degree began: "We have in our midst tonight the most widely honoured South African of all time. No South African is more admired and respected than Nelson Rolihlahla Mandela. He is a remarkable international figure. Now that he can move about the world, he mixes freely with presidents, prime ministers, and heads of state, always open, never to be prescribed to, but with dignity and firmness introducing a new perspective on relationships".
Mandela praised UWC for its role in the "struggle" for freedom and for transforming from its ethnic origins to a proud non-racial institution welcoming all South Africans.
UWC, dedicated initially to "coloured" students, was deeply involved in the struggle for freedom. Mandela's powerful words at the Rivonia trial inspired UWC students to oppose racial and ethnic separation.
Nelson Rolihlala Mandela
"During my lifetime I have dedicated myself to this struggle of the African people. I have fought against white domination, and I have fought against black domination. I have cherished the ideal of a democratic and free society in which all persons live together in harmony and with equal opportunities. It is an ideal which I hope to live for and to achieve. But if needs be, it is an ideal which I am prepared to die for," he said.
As South Africa prepares to celebrate Mandela's legacy, two of his most renowned quotes resonate deeply with the mission of UWC: "There can be no greater gift than that of giving one's time and energy to helping others without expecting anything in return," and, "Education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world."
The higher education landscape constantly evolves due to technological advancements and changes in teaching and learning methods. Historically Disadvantaged Institutions (HDIs) like UWC must be creative with tight budgets and are increasingly reliant on donations and philanthropy.
In November 2023, UWC acknowledged the vital contributions of stakeholders, staff, and private donors during a donor recognition awards dinner.
Their financial support has led to the success of many academically gifted students from disadvantaged backgrounds and the development of much-needed state-of-the-art infrastructure.
In June 2024, UWC recognised the Sector of Education and Training Authority (SETA) for its financial contributions.
According to Professor Anesh Singh, Director of Institutional Advancement, "About 35% of the funding currently raised by UWC stems from SETAs, with more than 60% directed at bursaries. We are a historically disadvantaged institution, and as a result, we have students who come from underprivileged backgrounds. We try to enable them to access higher education, succeed, and take their place in society".
Mandela's approach to giving and education remains crucial today.
His belief in the transformative power of education and the importance of selfless giving inspires us to support institutions like UWC. By investing in education and helping students from adverse backgrounds, we honour Mandela's legacy and contribute to a brighter, more equitable future for all.
This moment, etched in the memories of millions, was a testament to the enduring struggle for freedom. Nine months later, another significant milestone was achieved when the University of the Western Cape (UWC) became the first higher education institution to award Mandela an honorary doctorate.
According to UWC's archive, the citation for Mandela's honorary degree began: "We have in our midst tonight the most widely honoured South African of all time. No South African is more admired and respected than Nelson Rolihlahla Mandela. He is a remarkable international figure. Now that he can move about the world, he mixes freely with presidents, prime ministers, and heads of state, always open, never to be prescribed to, but with dignity and firmness introducing a new perspective on relationships".
Mandela praised UWC for its role in the "struggle" for freedom and for transforming from its ethnic origins to a proud non-racial institution welcoming all South Africans.
UWC, dedicated initially to "coloured" students, was deeply involved in the struggle for freedom. Mandela's powerful words at the Rivonia trial inspired UWC students to oppose racial and ethnic separation.
Nelson Rolihlala MandelaAs South Africa prepares to celebrate Mandela's legacy, two of his most renowned quotes resonate deeply with the mission of UWC: "There can be no greater gift than that of giving one's time and energy to helping others without expecting anything in return," and, "Education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world."
The higher education landscape constantly evolves due to technological advancements and changes in teaching and learning methods. Historically Disadvantaged Institutions (HDIs) like UWC must be creative with tight budgets and are increasingly reliant on donations and philanthropy.
In November 2023, UWC acknowledged the vital contributions of stakeholders, staff, and private donors during a donor recognition awards dinner.
Their financial support has led to the success of many academically gifted students from disadvantaged backgrounds and the development of much-needed state-of-the-art infrastructure.
In June 2024, UWC recognised the Sector of Education and Training Authority (SETA) for its financial contributions.
Mandela's approach to giving and education remains crucial today.
His belief in the transformative power of education and the importance of selfless giving inspires us to support institutions like UWC. By investing in education and helping students from adverse backgrounds, we honour Mandela's legacy and contribute to a brighter, more equitable future for all.
