As SPU marks 150 years since the birth of its namesake, students are encouraged to read Mhudi and recognise reading as a foundation for knowledge, personal growth and success throughout life.
Before he was a leader, he was a reader.
Solomon Tshekisho Plaatje’s formal schooling ended at Standard III, but his education did not. Through reading and self-study, he became a well-read journalist and leading Setswana scholar. He spoke at least eight languages, translated Shakespeare into Setswana, edited newspapers and wrote Native Life in South Africa. What he read, he turned outward into service.
This is the significance of the name Sol Plaatje University carries. It should move us to read, to think for ourselves and to use what we know in service of others.
This year marks 150 years since Plaatje’s birth. In recognition of this milestone, SPU, through Library and Information Services, will host Readers Become Leaders: Promoting Literacy for Academic and Personal Success on International Literacy Day.
The initiative has three aims: to emphasise the importance of reading for life success, not only academic success; to encourage all SPU students to read Mhudi; and to promote reading as a means of broadening general knowledge.
Mhudi was the first full-length novel written in English by a Black South African. Its presence is already woven into University life. The SPU residences Tauana, Umnandi, Hannetjie and Moroka take their names from characters in the novel.
The one-hour programme will include reflections on Plaatje as a well-read intellectual, as well as contributions from SPU authors and leaders on their favourite books and what reading those books has meant in their lives.
Student video competition
Ahead of the event, SPU students are invited to submit a one-minute video explaining how reading has changed their lives. They may reflect on Mhudi or another book or reading experience that has influenced them. Selected reflections will be shared during the event, and the winning students will receive book prizes.
SPU students may visit the Library for assistance with accessing Mhudi and for information on the video submission process.
Event details
Date: Tuesday, 8 September 2026
Time: 12:30 – 13:30
Venue: The event will be streamed live on the SPU Library Facebook page and the official SPU YouTube channel.
Reading shaped the person whose name we carry. Through reading, we carry his legacy forward.
