Unisa recently held the second Simiso Nkwanyana Memorial Lecture, a momentous occasion dedicated to honouring the legacy of the late student leader who made significant contributions to provincial and national politics. The event took place at the Durban International Convention Centre (ICC) and was organised by the Unisa KwaZulu-Natal (KZN) Region in collaboration with the Nkwanyana family. The lecture was delivered by the Deputy Minister of Finance, Dr David Masondo, and featured a distinguished lineup of speakers.

Prof Thenjiwe Meyiwa, Vice-Principal: Research, Postgraduate Studies, Innovation and Commercialisation

Representing the Principal and Vice-Chancellor (PVC), Prof Puleng LenkaBula, Prof Thenjiwe Meyiwa reflected eloquently on the enduring spirit of student activism in South Africa. She underscored its pivotal role in advancing social justice and transformative education. Meyiwa emphasised that the memorial lecture is a tribute to Nkwanyana's legacy and a vital platform for dialogue that aligns with Unisa's core values of educational excellence and social equity. She highlighted the importance of revisiting the values that drove past student movements and how they can inspire and inform current and future activism.

Meyiwa said: "Simiso Nkwanyana was more than just a student leader; he was a symbol of grace and justice whose contributions profoundly impacted the history of student activism in South Africa." She added: "His life's work was a beacon of hope for marginalised communities and a testament to an individual's significant impact in the pursuit of equality and quality education." Meyiwa's address called on attendees to draw from the rich history to shape a more equitable future, which aligns with Unisa's mission to foster critical thinking, resourcefulness and innovation.

Unisa's legacy, spanning over 150 years, embodies resilience and a steadfast commitment to justice and quality. Meyiwa's remarks reinforced the institution's dedication to transforming society through education and ensuring that the principles of social justice continue to guide its mission.

Dr David Masondo, Deputy Minister of Finance

Masondo began his address by expressing his profound honour and humility to deliver the lecture. He reflected on his personal experiences with Nkwanyana, whom he had known as a fellow student activist. He described his presence as unforgettable, marked by his vigorous debates and distinctive, infectious laughter. Masondo said: "Nkwanyana was a key figure in a pivotal generation of student activists who navigated the end of apartheid and the transition to democracy." This era of activism was characterised by a profound understanding that students while pursuing academic goals, had a broader societal role. They recognised that advancing higher education was intrinsically linked to seeking comprehensive social change.

A staunch socialist and communist, Nkwanyana believed that market forces should not dictate the well-being of the poor. He championed the notion that essential services such as education and healthcare should be public goods accessible to all. His advocacy for equitable education was later embraced by the #FeesMustFall movement, which expanded the struggle to include the decolonisation of education and the transformation of curricula. This generation of activists, inspired by Nkwanyana's principles, understood that addressing educational deficiencies was only part of the struggle; the quality and inclusivity of education were also crucial.

The second Simiso Nkwanyana Memorial Lecture honoured the legacy of student activism and social justice

Masondo also highlighted Nkwanyana's pride in his Zulu heritage, noting that while he was deeply rooted in his cultural identity, he did not allow regionalism to limit his vision. He viewed local and national spaces as interconnected battlegrounds against oppression and exploitation. "His political identity was both proudly South African and internationally socialist. His legacy calls for inclusivity and unity within the student movement, resisting any division that undermines collective progress," he said.

Masondo's lecture not only honoured Nkwanyana's contributions but also posed essential questions for the future of student activism. As South Africa celebrates 30 years of activism and reflects on a century of student organising, the call to continue Nkwanyan's work focusing on inclusivity and transformation remains as relevant as ever.

Dance group brings Nkwanyana's legacy to life at memorial lecture

Khaye Nkwanyana, speaking on behalf of the family, eloquently recounted his brother's political and educational journey, which began in the rural areas of KZN and culminated in Durban at Unisa and as the Secretary of the South African Communist Party (SACP) Provincial Secretary at the time of his untimely death.  

* By Kgothatso Mojela, Intern Journalist, Department of Institutional Advancement