As we observe Africa Day on May 25th, it is an opportune moment to contemplate not only the trajectory that Africa has traversed but also the eminent personalities who have steered her course. Solomon Tshekisho Plaatje, commonly referred to as Sol Plaatje, remains a prominent South African intellectual, renowned for his expertise in language studies and his active involvement in political activism. The impact he left behind, specifically in the domain of post secondary education, bears significant relevance to the essence of Africa Day. Plaatje’s commitment to education and unwavering pursuit of knowledge challenged the limitations imposed by the prevalent racial discrimination during his lifetime. Notwithstanding the constraints imposed on his personal academic pursuits, he acquired proficiency in multiple languages, demonstrated expertise in historical research, demonstrated skill in translation, and emerged as one of the pioneering black journalists in South Africa. The life and oeuvre of the individual in question serve as evidence of the profound impact that education can have on an individual’s personal growth and development.
The legacy of Plaatje carries significant implications in modern day higher education. He exemplified the African intellectual heritage, thereby refuting the prevalent notion of the inferiority of the African intellect that was held by a significant number of individuals during his era. Plaatje’s prolific literary output, which notably encompasses the inaugural English rendition of a Setswana novel, significantly bolstered the validation of African languages and cultures. His efforts pose a challenge to contemporary educational institutions to encourage the exploration and admiration of African languages and literature. Moreover, Plaatje’s fervent commitment to social justice and his pivotal contribution to the establishment of the South African Native National Congress, subsequently renamed as the African National Congress (ANC), underscore the significance of involving students in comprehending the socio-political milieu of the continent. It is recommended that higher education institutions emulate Plaatje’s approach by integrating teachings on Africa’s political history and contemporary issues into their academic programmes. Inculcating a sense of responsibility among students towards contributing to the development of Africa would be facilitated by this approach. Merely imparting knowledge about Plaatje’s legacy or the history of Africa is insufficient. It is imperative for institutions of higher education to endeavour towards replicating Plaatje’s principles of equity and societal fairness. It is imperative that individuals take an active role in dismantling racial, ethnic, and gender-based obstacles in education. This will facilitate equal opportunities for all students, irrespective of their socio-cultural background, to gain access to and excel in higher education. The life narrative of Plaatje can also function as a source of motivation for students. The individual’s resolute commitment and autonomous quest for knowledge, despite encountering significant impediments, may serve as a source of inspiration for learners to surmount their own challenges. The importance of persistence in education cannot be overstated, particularly in present-day Africa where a multitude of socio-economic barriers persistently impede the attainment of high-quality education. On commemoration of Africa Day on May 25, it is fitting to reflect upon the legacy of Sol Plaatje, who is renowned not only for his intellectual fortitude but also for his pioneering spirit in overcoming adversity. The enduring impact of his legacy ought to persist in shaping our higher education systems, with the aim of not only producing proficient graduates but also cultivating socially aware and responsible citizens. Plaatje’s statement, “Awakening on Friday morning, June 20, 1913, the South African native found himself, not actually a slave, but a pariah in the land of his birth,” highlights the marginalised status of indigenous South Africans during that time period. As we acknowledge the progress achieved thus far, it is imperative to recognise the remaining tasks that require attention. Here’s to a future for Africa that is characterised by greater inclusivity and brightness, propelled by the potency of education. Today marks the commemoration of Africa Day.
As we commemorate Africa Day, it is imperative to emphasise the pivotal role that tertiary education plays in shaping forthcoming cohorts, instilling within them the ethos of solidarity, fortitude, and advancement that epitomises Africa. The educational institutions in Africa bear a distinctive obligation to foster a milieu that fosters not just scholarly excellence but also the essential competencies and principles to steer through the intricacies of our interconnected world. The tenacity of Sol Plaatje’s heritage provides a paradigm for our pedagogical frameworks. Plaatje’s steadfast dedication to the cause of social justice, his unyielding faith in the transformative potential of knowledge, and his fervent championing of the rights of black South Africans should serve as a guiding principle for our educational philosophy. It is imperative that we imbue within our pupils the conviction that they are not mere receptacles of erudition, but rather dynamic catalysts of transformation. It is imperative that we endow them with a comprehensive understanding of their past, the opulence of their cultural legacy, and the cognizance of their capacity to mould the destiny of this illustrious landmass. Furthermore, Plaatje’s diverse professional trajectory as a polyglot, pressman, and statesman serves as evidence of the significance of an interdisciplinary pedagogy. On Africa Day, it is imperative that academic institutions renew their dedication to imparting a comprehensive education that not only imparts specialised expertise but also nurtures the faculties of discernment, analytical reasoning, and flexibility. The core of Plaatje’s endeavour was centred around the principles of inclusivity, diversity, and equitable educational opportunities. In the present day, their relevance has been heightened to a significant degree. In our pursuit of actualizing the desired African society, it is imperative that we prioritise the alignment of our educational frameworks with these fundamental principles. It is imperative that we endeavour to achieve parity between genders in the realm of education, foster the integration of underrepresented communities, and deconstruct impediments that impede the attainment of high-quality education for all individuals. It is also imperative to acknowledge Plaatje’s ardent affection for his native language, Setswana, and his unwavering commitment to safeguarding and advancing African languages. It is imperative that our institutions of higher learning cultivate a profound appreciation and admiration within our student body for their native tongues and cultural heritage. It would be prudent to advocate for the advancement of research and erudition in African languages, and allocate resources towards their cultivation. On this occasion of commemorating Africa Day, it is imperative that we recollect the legacy of Sol Plaatje, a luminary who exemplified the quintessence of African ethos, espoused the potency of erudition, and ardently championed the cause of impartiality and parity. The enduring impact of his legacy ought to galvanise our institutions of higher learning to pursue excellence, foster inclusivity, and effectuate positive social change.
On this occasion of Africa Day, let us reaffirm our dedication towards nurturing a knowledgeable, self-sufficient, and socially aware younger generation in Africa, who possess the necessary skills to confront the forthcoming obstacles and contribute towards the growth of our cherished continent. Undoubtedly, the observance of Africa Day transcends a mere acknowledgement of the formation of the Organisation of African Unity, presently known as the African Union. Rather, it presents a momentous occasion to contemplate the strides we have taken as a continent and the obstacles that still beset us. This presents a unique opportunity to commemorate and glean insights from the legacies of pioneers such as Sol Plaatje, who demonstrated unwavering commitment to advocating for the liberties of Africans and the advancement of African intellectualism. Plaatje’s profound reverence for the realm of advanced learning has engendered a lasting impact, as his legacy reverberates within this sphere. The ardour with which he pursues knowledge, his propagation of African dialects, and his espousal of parity and rectitude are all congruent with the principles that our centres of higher education ought to inculcate in their scholars. Considering the ongoing Fourth Industrial Revolution and its consequential technological advancements, it is imperative to acknowledge the pivotal role that African universities are poised to undertake. It is imperative that educators equip their pupils with the necessary aptitudes and erudition to adeptly traverse this novel terrain, much like Plaatje adroitly navigated the intricacies of his era. It is imperative that these establishments acknowledge the significance of ingenuity and flexibility, and cultivate these attributes within their pupils. However, the teachings derived from Plaatje’s life extend beyond the realm of academia. The values of social justice, equality, and upliftment of one’s community, which he fervently pursued, are ideals that our students ought to internalise and apply in both their personal and professional endeavours.
It is imperative that our educational institutions imbue in their students a sense of agency and engagement with their communities and nations, encouraging them to become champions of progress and stalwarts of the values of unity and solidarity that Africa Day epitomises. Plaatje’s unwavering dedication to the safeguarding and dissemination of African languages serves as a pivotal lesson. Considering the ever-expanding scope of globalisation, it is imperative that we prioritise the preservation and advancement of our native tongues, in order to safeguard the richness of our linguistic diversity. In the pursuit of this objective, it is imperative that institutions of higher learning assume a pivotal role. It is imperative that efforts are made to enable and promote research in these languages, establish comprehensive tools for their acquisition, and establish forums for their utilisation and admiration. As we progress, let us remain cognizant of the exceptional existence and contributions of Sol Plaatje. The enduring legacy of this individual serves as a poignant reminder of the remarkable fortitude, unwavering determination, and exceptional cognitive prowess inherent within the African ethos. On this auspicious occasion of commemorating Africa Day, let us endeavour to uphold his legacy in our academic establishments and in the depths of our souls, and let us aspire to transform our continent into a paragon of erudition, originality, and impartiality. Sol Plaatje University has a role to play in harnessing the Spirit of Sol Plaatje through His Namesake University!
The commemoration of Africa Day is a task of great import, one which Sol Plaatje University (SPU) is well-suited to undertake, given its namesake’s status as a towering figure in South African intellectual circles. The academic establishment, situated in Kimberley, Northern Cape, South Africa, was founded in the year of 2014 and holds the distinction of being the inaugural university to be erected in the post-apartheid era. The nomenclature of SPU as a moniker for Sol Plaatje University is not a mere fortuity. The institutional vision of the university is intricately intertwined with the fundamental values espoused by Plaatje, namely, the pursuit of erudition, the advancement of autochthonous dialects and traditions, and the establishment of equity in society. Considering this, the commemoration of Africa Day presents a propitious opportunity for SPU to fortify these principles and advance its overarching objectives. A potential avenue for SPU to observe Africa Day with due reverence is to curate informative events and undertakings that accentuate the historical and cultural import of the occasion. Possible intellectual rewrite: The proposed activities encompass didactic and interactive formats, such as expository talks, scholarly colloquia, and dialectical forums, that revolve around Africa’s quest for autonomy and solidarity, as well as the manifold vicissitudes and prospects that beset the region in the present epoch. The occurrence of such events has the potential to foster a heightened comprehension of Africa’s opulent past and intricate socio-political terrain among both pupils and professors. Furthermore, considering Plaatje’s unwavering commitment to the conservation and advancement of African languages, SPU has the potential to conduct linguistic seminars, recitals of poetic verse, and narrative exchanges in native tongues.
The implementation of such endeavours would engender a more profound comprehension of these linguistic and cultural traditions among pupils, potentially serving as a catalyst for their advancement and resurgence. Given its status as a centre of academic excellence, SPU possesses a distinctive vantage point from which to engage with matters pertaining to equity and diversity – values that constituted the crux of Plaatje’s advocacy. The academic institution could leverage the commemoration of Africa Day as a propitious occasion to convene symposia on these topics, extending invitations to scholars, faculty, and local denizens to partake in substantive discourse concerning these matters. Interpersonal dialogues of this nature have the potential to cultivate heightened cognizance and ignite endeavours geared towards advancing parity and rectitude both within and outside the academic institution. In conclusion, it is imperative that SPU pays homage to the enduring heritage of its eponym by reasserting its dedication to erudition and inquisitiveness, traits that were exemplified by Sol Plaatje. This can be achieved through the exhibition of exemplary scholarly and pedagogical inquiries, organising scholastic contests, and commemorating academic accomplishments.
Fundamentally, the commemoration of Africa Day presents Sol Plaatje University with an unparalleled occasion to introspect on its purpose and aspirations, and to exemplify the ethos of its eponym in a way that enriches its scholars, the neighbouring populace, and the broader African sphere. Wishing you a felicitous commemoration of [Sol Plaatje University] Africa Day on May, 25!
Percy Sepeng is a Full Professor of Mathematics Education and an Academic in the School of Education at the Sol Plaatje University. He writes in his personal capacity as an Education Activist.
