Sol Plaatje Memorial Weekend celebrates legacy and service

The Sol Plaatje University (SPU) recently hosted the Sol Plaatje Memorial Weekend, a celebration of the life and work of Solomon Tshekisho Plaatje, a renowned writer, translator, journalist, and political activist.

The event, held on October 10-11, was a testament to Plaatje's enduring legacy and the university's commitment to his values.

The weekend's festivities began with the Annual Sol Plaatje Lecture, a flagship event that drew prominent figures from academia, law, and politics. Justice Steven Majiedt, SPU's outgoing Chancellor, delivered the 2025 lecture, titled "Lessons Learnt During My Career as a Judge from the Life and Legacy of the Venerable Sol Plaatje."

In his address, Justice Majiedt emphasised the importance of humility, purpose, and integrity in the pursuit of justice, drawing parallels between his judicial journey and Plaatje's life of service.

"We as judges must remain humble servants of the people, like Sol Plaatje," Justice Majiedt said. "When we dispense justice, we must do so equally, to the rich and the poor, the mighty and the meek, the powerful and the voiceless."

The lecture was well-received by the audience, which included SPU officials, students, and community members.

Prof Debra Meyer, Acting Vice-Chancellor and Principal Designate, described the lecture as "one of the most meaningful gatherings in the Northern Cape's academic and civic life." She encouraged attendees to "pause, reflect and draw lessons from Plaatje's legacy," reminding them that learning at SPU is both a privilege and a moral duty.

The same evening, the university hosted a Farewell Dinner in honour of Justice Majiedt, who concluded his tenure as SPU's Chancellor. The dinner was attended by his family, friends, and stakeholders, who paid tribute to his leadership and commitment to widening access to higher education.

Prof Randall Carolissen, SPU Chair of Council, praised Justice Majiedt's dedication to the university, saying, "He leaves behind a legacy that stretches far beyond this province."

On Saturday, October 11, Justice Majiedt hosted the Chancellor's Golf Day in partnership with Standard Bank, raising funds for the Talent Pipeline Programme (TPP). The programme, which Justice Majiedt supported during his tenure, provides academic enrichment and social support to learners from under-resourced schools, preparing them for success in higher education.

Northern Cape Premier Dr Zamani Saul commended the university for creating pathways for learners, announcing a R300,000 donation to the TPP.

The weekend's events concluded with the Faculty of Education's Alumni Homecoming, where alumni reconnected and reflected on their experiences at SPU. Prof Boitumelo Diale, Dean of the Faculty of Education, emphasised the importance of preparing teachers who are excellent, inclusive, and grounded in community realities. "Education is not only about transferring knowledge but also about restoring dignity and creating hope," she said.

Special guest speaker Ms Lynn Forbes, mother of the late Hip-Hop artist AKA, shared words of encouragement with the alumni. "Teachers wear many hats, mentors, guides, and changemakers," she said. "Always leave a lasting impact in the classroom. Through passion, empathy, and purpose, educators shape futures and continue the legacy of transformation that Plaatje envisioned."

Through the Sol Plaatje Memorial Weekend, SPU reaffirmed its commitment to the values of service, intellect, humility, and transformation that define its identity. The event served as a reminder of the power of legacy and the importance of community engagement in shaping the university's impact.