The University of Fort Hare’s (UFH) Sociology and Anthropology Department recently commemorated the enduring legacy of Robert Mangaliso Sobukwe, a towering figure in the country’s liberation struggle and an alumnus of the University, with a significant public event.
Held at the Miriam Makeba Arts Centre on the East London Campus, the occassion marked the beginning of an initiative by the Department to host a series of public events aimed at promoting intellectual exchange, scholarly debate, and critical engagement with contemporary social issues.
Keynote Address
A key moment was the keynote address delivered by political economist, Lebohang Liepollo Pheko.
In her address, titled “Robert Sobukwe: The Intellectual, the Revolutionary, and the Unfinished Business of Liberation,” Pheko profoundly explored Sobukwe’s intellectual and revolutionary legacy. She delved deeply into his ideas, his erasure from mainstream historical narratives, and his lasting influence on contemporary struggles for justice and decolonization.
Pheko argued that Sobukwe’s vision extended beyond political independence. “He advocated for economic sovereignty and a redefinition of justice to include reparations and recognition of historical and ongoing aggressions on Afrikan people. His legacy serves as a vital reminder of the necessity for African self-determination and the ongoing fight against colonial legacies, urging current and future generations to engage with his ideas and continue the struggle for true liberation.”
Powerful Discourse
Her powerful word connected the audience to Sobukwe’s revolutionary ideals to the ongoing struggles for a truly decolonized and just society.
Subsequently, an equally powerful and robust question-and-answer session ensued led by Mr Anele Dloto (Lecturer at Sociology and Anthropology Department) and closing remarks by the Dean of Social Sciences and Humanities, Prof Neil Roos.
The launch of this initiative highlights the department’s commitment to revitalizing its teaching, research, and public discourse, as agreed upon by the co-conveners, Prof Bongani Nyoka (Associate Professor) and Mr Dloto.
“This event, and the upcoming ones, ensure that UFH continues to serve as a vibrant hub for intellectual and cultural engagement, fostering an environment where diverse ideas and perspectives can flourish,” they said.
According to them, as part of this initiative, the department will host a variety of events, including a monthly seminar series, masterclasses, public lectures, book launches, and a dynamic platform called “The Soapbox” — all designed to encourage robust discussion and reflection on pressing societal matters.
