Rhodes University chancellor bows out

AS Rhodes University celebrates its Autumn Graduation, Chancellor Justice Lex

Mpati is bowing out from the role he has assumed for the past 12 years.

Justice Mpati, the first former Rhodes University student to become Chancellor and second Black student to graduate with an LLB from the University, championed judicial integrity, education, and transformation. 

His tenure as Chancellor marks an era of profound impact.

“Ï think the Administration has done very well so far. It’s obvious that students who are not white are many more than students who are white. When I came here, white students were in the majority. I myself came in on a permit at the time,” he said. Justice Mpati enrolled at Rhodes University, earning a BA in 1982 and an LLB in 1984—a testament to perseverance. He is officiating his last Graduation for Rhodes University between 2 and 4 April in Makhanda, and day one of this special occasion was marked by several highlights. He says he is proud of the Rhodes University legacy, specifically as it relates to the institution’s transformation efforts. 

During the Autumn 2025 Graduation, Advocate Paul Pretorius delivered a powerful and thoughtful acceptance speech upon receiving an Honorary Doctorate from Rhodes University for his unwavering commitment to fairness. His contributions, particularly as Evidence Leader for the State Capture Commission, have played a crucial role in shaping South Africa’s legal and democratic landscape.

Reflecting on his personal journey—from being banned under Apartheid to leading investigations into state corruption—Advocate Pretorius highlighted themes of conflict resolution, inequality, and the corrosive effects of corruption. He offered insights drawn from his life, calling for empathy, principled engagement, and active

citizenship. He stressed the importance of fostering dialogue in a polarised world, addressing inequality in education, and taking decisive action against corruption, warning that complacency threatens justice and democracy.Advocate Pretorius praised Rhodes University for its efforts in education reform and encouraged graduates to embrace change, act with integrity, and remain committed to justice. Ending on a note of hope and challenge, he urged: “If we are going to make a difference, we must be different.”

Acclaimed Zimbabwean writer and filmmaker Tsitsi Dangarembga was also awarded an Honorary Doctorate on Wednesday for her immense contributions to African literature, cinema, and advocacy for social justice, gender equality, and freedom of expression. Drawing inspiration from the film Thelma & Louise, she spoke

of the importance of perseverance in the face of systemic resistance, asking: “What if we don’t stop?”

Dangarembga recounted her early struggles against patriarchy and racism in literature and film, sharing how her landmark novel Nervous Conditions was initially rejected before eventually finding a home at The Women’s Press in London. She credited her success to persistence and the solidarity of others, particularly

those who recognised and supported marginalised narratives. She challenged dominant cinematic and literary conventions that erase melanated voices, advocating for new frameworks such as "Ubuntu 2.0" to reimagine

community and subjectivity. Her closing call was one of defiance and unity: to collectively resist forces of greed, racism, and fascism by not stopping the work of progress and justice.

Furthermore, Dangarembga expressed deep gratitude for the honour, stating, “I enjoy this honour today because you are,” invoking a shared vision rooted in contemporary ubuntu.

Rhodes University’s Autumn Graduation Week continues this week. You can find updates on the University’s official social media pages using #RUGrad2025.