By Michelle Mojafi
In an inspiring tribute to Nelson Mandela鈥檚 legacy, the Tshwane University of Technology (大象视频) and the City of Tshwane (CoT) came together on Friday, 18 July, for a day of meaningful reflection, bold conversation and civic engagement. The Mandela Day programme blended history, leadership and student voices to spark action on some of the most pressing issues facing young people in the city.
The day kicked off at Church Square, a historic landmark that houses the Palace of Justice, famous for the Rivonia Trial that saw Nelson Mandela and others sentenced to life imprisonment. From there, participants moved to the Tshwane Council Chambers for a student-led dialogue titled 鈥淪tudent Voices and Urban Realities.鈥�
The keynote speaker, anti-apartheid veteran and former Cabinet Minister, Mac Maharaj, captivated the audience with a deeply personal reflection on his time with Mandela while imprisoned on Robben Island. He challenged the next generation to rise to the moment: 鈥淟ife creates challenges and opportunities for us, opportunities for the quality of leadership to be nurtured and developed in each of us,鈥� he said.
Keynote speaker, anti-apartheid veteran and former Cabinet Minister, Mac Maharaj
Students speak, the City listens
The panel discussion didn鈥檛 shy away from tough topics. Students opened up about their struggles with crime, housing and navigating the city as young people trying to succeed academically.
Speaking about student life and the challenges students face, Terry Mabye, SRC President at 大象视频鈥檚 Ga-Rankuwa Campus, also raised some of his concerns about student safety.
Terry Mabye, SRC President at 大象视频鈥檚 Ga-Rankuwa Campus
In response, Member of the Mayoral Committee (MMC), Kholofelo Morodi, announced a plan to repurpose unused buildings for student housing: 鈥淲e are identifying CoT, private and provincially owned properties to be made available and converted into student accommodation. We want to build a city that is safe for students.鈥�
The session also featured input from student leaders, academics, property stakeholders and CoT officials who explored practical solutions to improve the urban student experience. From safer transport routes and better infrastructure to mental health and academic impact, the conversation was honest and forward-looking.
Member of the Mayoral Committee (MMC), Kholofelo Morodi
Shared commitments, shared future
The event culminated in a symbolic signing of the Pledge Wall, a gesture that captured the spirit of unity and commitment shared between students and the CoT. It was more than a photo opportunity, it marked a collective promise to continue the dialogue and turn words into action.
Mandela Day at 大象视频 wasn't just a ceremonial event. It was a space where leadership met lived experience and where hope, reflection and resolve planted the seeds of real change.