The Naming and Renaming Programme Launch
Nelson Mandela University officially adopted its new name on 20 July 2017. This name change presented the Nelson Mandela University with an ideal opportunity to revisit the names of existing buildings, streets, campuses and other named features and components at the University.
On the 27th May 2019 the Vice Chancellor Prof Muthwa launched the Naming and Renaming Project at the University’s indoor sport centre.
In her speech Prof Muthwa indicated that the Naming and Renaming Project was a very important transformational and identity building programme of the University.
“Changing the names of buildings or creating new names where none existed is a seemingly frivolous activity when the University is facing other major challenges. Yet names are a visible and tangible link between teaching and learning and institutional identity”
Guests at the launch were welcomed by the melodic jazz sounds of Temba Ncetani and his band. Coupled to the event was the launch of the renamed PE student residences. Special guests after whom the residences were named were present. These honoured guests included, the mother and sister of the late Hector Pieterson, the nephew of Lilian Ngoyi, Chief Lukas Mahlangu and nephew Gideon Mahlangu, mother and son of the late university student leader, Yolanda Guma, student leader Claude Qavane’s family and “direct” descendants of Sol Plaatje. Also present was a family member of the Maxeke family who delivered an address at the residence dinner event that evening. A performance relating to the renamed residences was rendered showing the iconic name changes.
Various speakers shared their messages of support of the Naming and Renaming Project, namely; Bulelani Blaauw, SRC deputy president, a member of the Mahlangu family, Mr Gideon Mahlangu. Vice-Chancellor Prof Sibongile Muthwa delivered the keynote address
Prof Muthwa stated the following
"The Key to the creation of social cohesion is the belief that appropriately named spaces at our University creates a sense of inclusion, provides a sense of purpose and a deeper spiritual connection to our African project our African mission."
She went on to say
"The process is much more than the replacement of a sign, or the erection of a new place name. Rather, it should be embraced as an opportunity to redress the past, learn from one another, be educated, reach a deeper understanding of others and of ourselves as we seek mutually-acceptable names that also align with the values of Mandela, and our African heritage."
The event ended off with a vote of thanks done by Ms Siphokazi Tau and an upbeat performance by the Nelson Mandela University choir as the guests left the venue.