13 September 2012

Arts and Culture Minister Paul Mashatile, has congratulated Prof. Keorapetse Kgositsile on receiving his latest accolade, an honorary Doctorate from the University of South Africa (UNISA).

Prof. Kgositsile will receive the honorary Doctorate today the 13th of September 2012 at UNISA.   

Prof. Kgositsile is currently South Africa’s National Poet Laureate and Special Advisor to the Minister Mashatile.

“We are deeply honoured to have someone of Prof. Kgositsile’s stature in our midst,” said Mashatile.

Mashatile said Prof. Kgositsile was a source of inspiration and fountain of wisdom in the arts, culture and heritage sector.

“On a daily basis our work is enriched by Prof. Kgositsile’s vast and deep knowledge of our sector. We value his contribution to the national effort to position our sector as a major contributor in the economy and job creation as well as in building a socially inclusive society.” Mashatile said.
             
UNISA’s Council decided to confer the degree, Doctor of Literature and Philosophy (SLitt et Phil), to Prof Kgositsile for his outstanding contribution to the academic world nationally and internationally and his involvement in the mentoring and support of youth development initiatives.  

Prof Kgositsile left South Africa in 1961 as one of the first young ANC members instructed to do so by the leadership of the national liberation movement.
In exile he was one of the founding members of the ANC’s Department of Education in 1977, and the Department of Arts and Culture in 1982.

He has taught literature at various universities across the world including the University of California in Los Angeles (UCLA), North Carolina State University, State University of New York, the University of Denver, the University of Nairobi, University of Botswana and University of Fort Hare, among others.

 “We look forward to Prof. Kgositsile’s continued contribution to the advancement of our sector.” Mashatile said.

For enquiries contact Percy Mthimkhulu on 0823892684  

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