Investiture of the Chancellor

Thebe Ikalafeng

24 March 2026

A ceremonial moment of legacy, identity and institutional future

Sol Plaatje University will formally confer the office of Chancellor upon Thebe Ikalafeng in a ceremony that reflects the institution’s identity, values and future trajectory.

Rooted in African intellectual tradition and set within the historic landscape of Kimberley, the investiture brings together academia, leadership and community in a shared expression of continuity, memory and progress.

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ABOUT THE UNIVERSITY

Sol Plaatje University is a comprehensive public university located in Kimberley in the Northern Cape, established to expand access to quality higher education in a historically under-resourced region.

Named after Solomon Tshekisho Plaatje, one of South Africa’s most influential intellectuals, writers and political leaders, the University draws inspiration from his legacy as a founding member of the South African Native National Congress, a pioneering journalist and a champion of African languages and thought. The University is committed to advancing knowledge that is contextually relevant, globally engaged and grounded in African intellectual traditions.

As a growing institution, Sol Plaatje University continues to strengthen its academic offering, research profile and societal impact, positioning itself as a credible and emerging voice within South Africa’s higher education landscape.

The University’s academic and institutional development is guided by a clear strategic focus on excellence, innovation and responsiveness to societal needs. Through its teaching, research and engagement initiatives, Sol Plaatje University is contributing to the development of knowledge and skills that support regional growth while engaging meaningfully with national and global academic conversations.

CHANCELLOR PROFILE

Thebe Ikalafeng is widely recognised as one of Africa’s foremost authorities on branding, reputation and identity, and a leading advocate for a brand-led African renaissance.

Over a career spanning more than three decades, he has worked across Africa and globally, advising institutions, governments and business leaders on positioning, competitiveness and cultural diplomacy. His work has consistently sought to reposition Africa from the margins of global perception to the centre of global relevance.

He is the Founder and Chairman of Brand Leadership Group and the Founder of Brand Africa, a non-profit movement driving a brand-led African renaissance across the continent.

A prolific writer and thought leader, Mr Ikalafeng has been named among the 100 Most Influential Africans and has received multiple lifetime achievement awards, as well as honorary doctorates in recognition of his contribution to leadership, branding and public discourse.

His appointment as Chancellor reflects both his global standing and his deep connection to Kimberley, his place of birth, and to the legacy of Solomon Plaatje.

He most recently served on the Council of Sol Plaatje University, bringing continuity, institutional insight and strategic depth to his role as Chancellor.

His appointment signals a deliberate alignment between the University’s vision and a leadership approach grounded in identity, relevance and global engagement.

CEREMONY HIGHLIGHTS

A ceremonial procession from the Sol Plaatje Museum to the Great Hall will symbolise the University’s connection to place, history and community.

The Chancellor’s ceremonial gown will reflect African identity, creativity and the symbolic authority of the office.

A commissioned portrait of Solomon Tshekisho Plaatje will be unveiled, honouring the intellectual legacy of the University.

The Chancellor will deliver his inaugural address, setting the tone for his tenure and articulating a vision for the University’s future.