The Minister of Higher Education, Science and Innovation, Dr Blade Nzimande, will be addressing the University of South Africa (Unisa) 150TH Anniversary Celebration on Monday, 26 June 2023, under the theme “Reclaiming Africa’s Intellectual Futures”.

Since its establishment on 26 June 1873, Unisa has been at the forefront of the growth and development of South Africa’s higher education system. Consequently, UNISA has shaped the futures of many people from diverse backgrounds in South Africa, on the African continent and globally.

Not only did Unisa spawn the university system in South Africa, but it was also the first university in the world to adopt open distance education, a modality that has become even more resourceful in the aftermath of the Covid-19 pandemic and the developments in digitisation and the 4IR.

It is thus UNISA’s considered view that as an integral part of the university system locally and globally, that the University will use the occasion of Unisa’s birthday to celebrate this important milestone, to reflect on the past and its challenges, and to carve a strategic path towards an envisaged future Unisa, which will continue to play a central role in knowledge generation and the production of quality graduates.

Members of the media are invited to joined Minister Nzimande, His Excellency Dr Thabo Mbeki, Unisa Chancellor, Mr MJ Maboa, Chairperson of the Council and Professor LenkaBula, Principal and Vice Chancellor.

Members of the can confirm their attendance with Ishmael Mnisi at 0660378859. The event will take place as follows:

Date: 26 June 2023

Venue: ZK Matthews Great Hall, UNISA Pretoria Campus

Time: 08:30 for 09:00

Source: Government of South Africa