Dialogue urges universities to reclaim their identities to effect change in contemporary society

Historian and academic Professor Saleem Badat delivers a compelling address during the Executive Dialogue at the University of Limpopo.

By Reuben Maake | reuben.maake@ul.ac.za 

The University of Limpopo (UL) recently hosted one of its regular Executive Dialogue, bringing together academics, students, and alumni to discuss the vital role of institutional heritage in maintaining relevance in contemporary society

 

In his thought-provoking address, Historian and Research Professor at the University of the Free State, Saleem Badat, emphasised the importance of preserving institutional heritage as a means of sustaining a university’s relevance in today’s world. Prof Badat argued that for universities to remain impactful, they must actively embrace and uphold their unique cultures, traditions, norms, and virtues. These elements, he noted, not only shape academic curricula and institutional systems but also play a crucial role in influencing public opinion and societal values.

Prof Badat’s perspective suggests that a university’s historical and cultural identity is far from being a relic of the past. Instead, it is a vital component that enhances its impact and relevance in the modern era. “By integrating their heritage into current practices and curricula, universities can forge deeper connections with their communities and address contemporary issues more effectively,” Prof Badat explained. He highlighted the early days of the University of the North (now UL), which was originally administered under University of South Africa during its formative years. He further urged that universities must identify and embrace their unique geographical locations to offer relevant and region-specific programmes.

Reflecting on his tenure as the former Vice-Chancellor of Rhodes University and CEO of the Council on Higher Education, Prof Badat observed that many universities are path-dependent and struggle to pursue new directions. He stressed that embracing heritage is not merely about preserving the past “but about investing in knowledge generation to ensure a dynamic and relevant future.” He continued: “We cannot know our heritage if we do not research and produce knowledge,” he stated. “Otherwise, we risk becoming stagnant. Universities must constantly interrogate their societal purposes.”



Prof Badat also called on the audience to view the dialogue as part of a larger project aimed at the decolonisation of African universities. He pointed out that many South African universities were built with Western identities and that creating an African university starts with critically examining the existing institutional culture, systems, and curriculum. UL Vice-Chancellor and Principal, Prof Mahlo Mokgalong, recounted pivotal moments in the University’s history during the apartheid era, which have significantly shaped its identity. He emphasised the importance of documenting these historical events to ensure future generations understand the University’s origins. He also shared a significant chapter in the University’s history, recalling a period in the early 1970s when the institution was almost shut down due to political turbulence. He noted that during this time, Turfloop was known for its influence on national protests, famously stating, “When Turfloop sneezed, the whole country would sneeze.” He stressed that this history must not be forgotten.

UL Vice-Chancellor and Principal, Professor Mahlo Mokgalong, during the Executive Dialogue

 Prof Mokgalong highlighted the university’s role as a catalyst for development in and around Mankweng, contributing significantly to the local economy. Prof Ompemetse Sibanda, Executive Dean of the Faculty of Management and Law at UL, proposed the establishment of a research chair in the School of Social Sciences, “with the support of UNESCO, in order to further preserve and promote the University’s culture and identity.” Kganki Mphahlele, a student leader, pointed out the ongoing challenges in advancing the transformation agenda at universities like Rhodes, which was central to student protests advocating for name changes. “The transformation agenda remains distant as some institutions continue to preserve apartheid-era heritage.”


UL alumnus Peter Mokwena argued that UL is ideally positioned to become a heritage site, given its rich history and significant role in the region. “This University is situated in a province that boasts four to five kingdoms, which were among the first to advocate for its establishment. It has a rich history of student struggles during apartheid and is recognised as an institution that has produced many national leaders,” he said. Executive Director for Marketing and Communication at UL, Victor Kgomoeswana, echoed Mokwena’s sentiments and outlined the University’s efforts to preserve its history. “Several locations on campus have been identified as potential heritage sites, and a proposal has been submitted to the Department of Arts and Culture. This includes the fig tree next to the golf course, where local chiefs held their first meeting in 1959 to discuss the establishment of the University.” Prof Chitja Twala from the Department of Cultural and Political Studies at UL emphasised the importance of the dialogue, stating, “It serves as a foundation for an institutional project aimed at documenting UL’s historical significance.”