CPUT proud host of giant of African literature on Africa Day

Tuesday, 24 May 2011

Dr Mongane Wally Serote, world-renowned poet, writer and cultural activist was the keynote speaker at CPUT’s Africa Day celebrations on the Bellville campus on 25 May. Revered as one of the Soweto poets who embodied the literary revival of black voices in the 1970s, Serote is generally regarded as one of South Africa’s pre-eminent writers.

Africa Day is an annual occasion for African countries and institutions to commemorate and reflect on the growth and development of the continent. The celebrations mark the day when the Organisation of African Unity, the precursor to the African Union, was formed 48 years ago, on May 25th, 1963.

Civic Engagement Manager Buntu Gwija, a member of the organising committee for Africa Day, says he’s delighted that an icon of Serote’s stature delivered the keynote address. “It's an honour to host Dr Serote, who has played such a proud and committed role in our country’s history. My wish is that we at CPUT, an institution that envisions becoming ‘the heart of technology and innovation in Africa’, can learn from him and use his teachings to forge a unique, shared sense of Africanised identity.”

A recent recipient of the President’s Order of Ikhamanga in Silver for his ‘excellent contribution to literature, with emphasis on poetry and for putting his artistic talents at the service of democracy in South Africa’, Serote spoke on the topic of ‘African Renaissance as Anchored on Indigenous Knowledge Systems.’

In addition to Serote’s address, Hip-hop artist Kapital K provided entertainment during the event, and prizes were awarded to the best-dressed male and female who embodied the dress code theme – ‘Diversely African’.

By Thando J. Moiloa and Jan Weintrob.

Sources: www.en.wikipedia.org, www.thepresidency.gov.za
Photo source: www.townshiptimes.co.za

Written by CPUT News
Email: news@cput.ac.za

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CPUT proud host of giant of African literature on Africa Day