South Africa finds itself at a critical juncture, prompting the urgent question: Where are the Mandelas of our time? Recent events, including allegations against Police Minister Senzo Mchunu, have been met with a concerning level of apathy, highlighting a desensitisation to corruption and scandal even after the end of single-party rule.
The Crisis of Moral Leadership
The absence of moral leadership is keenly felt. Words, once tools for unity and inspiration, are now often used to divide and deceive. Nelson Mandela exemplified the power of warmth, discipline, sacrifice, and forgiveness. His humility set a global standard. But who embodies these qualities today?
Nelson Mandela University is actively engaging with Mandela's legacy. They are hosting an indaba titled 'From Dalibhunga to Rolihlahla: Making Trouble with Mandela' on August 14-15, 2025. This event encourages reflection on the university's journey since its name change in 2017 and the responsibilities that come with aligning itself with Mandela's name.
Reimagining Mandela's Legacy
The indaba, a collaboration between the Transdisciplinary Institute for Mandela Studies (TIMS) and the Chair for Critical Studies in Higher Education Transformation (CriSHET), builds upon the 2019 colloquium 'Dalibhunga: This Time? That Mandela?' It aims to understand Mandela not just as a historical icon, but as a social figure symbolizing justice, equality, and transformation.
Six years later, the 2025 Indaba challenges the university community to confront the question: What does it mean to be Nelson Mandela University today? It's about grappling with the Mandela who challenges and provokes, not indulging in nostalgia.
A Crossroads for South Africa
South Africa stands at a crossroads, presented with the opportunity to forge a new path rooted in moral clarity and truthful speech. Are South Africans willing to champion real change and seek leaders who combine resilience, integrity, and hope? The path to renewal and justice is possible by elevating and upholding the virtues of authentic leadership, mirroring Mandela's extraordinary example. The choice, and the time to act, is now.