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
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From tutoring learners to rolling out greening programmes, students at CPUT are volunteering their time to make a difference in local communities.

These initiatives all form part of the Student in Civic Engagement Programme (SICEP) that was officially launched this week.

HELP AT HAND: A group of CPUT students who are participating in the Student in Civic Engagement Programme

An initiative of the Civic Engagement Department,  Manager Buntu Gwija says SICEP aims to increase students’ involvement in communities.

“It prepares students for good citizenship by raising awareness of the need for social responsibility and commitment to building South Africa’s future economically, politically and socially,” says Gwija.

Already two programmes are underway, with a large number of students involved.

Student volunteer and field coordinator, Mzolisi Kene says the Believing in Change programme focuses on environmental sustainability in the community of Langa, while the Masiphumelele programme will see CPUT students tutor primary and high school learners.

“We want to bring change in our communities,” he says.

Both these initiatives will run throughout the winter holidays and this year the CPUT volunteers will be assisted by students from Tulane University in America, who are participating in an exchange programme.

The group of students will also participate in various HIV/Aids programmes in several communities, which are being driven by Dr Ashraf Mohammed, head of the HIV/Aids Unit.

By Candes Keating

Written by CPUT News
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