University Of Witwatersrand Nelson Mandela, The Mandela Institute is a centre in the School of Law of the University of the Witwatersrand. It comprises a small full-time staff and affiliated experts in the Wits School of Law, as well as visiting and adjunct academics with high standing and extensive experience from the legal profession, civil society, industry or the community.
Nelson Mandela was a symbol of South Africa’s transition to democracy during the 1990s and beyond and the first President of the democratic South Africa graciously allowed the Institute to be named for him. While 1994 marked the country’s political transition, it was equally evident that economic transformation would be necessary. The achievement of socio-economic rights in the Constitution’s Bill of Rights cannot be successful without a strong economy. However, a growing economy also implies expanding the country’s environmental, energy and extractive footprint.
In order to grow its economy, South Africa must compete in a fast-changing world economy, a global economic order where investment moves rapidly with little if any sense of constitutional patriotism or nationality. In the light of these imperatives the Wits School of Law launched the Mandela Institute in 2000 to honour the contribution of Nelson Mandela to the transformation of South Africa.
Tribute to Nelson Mandela from the Executive Committee of Convocation
STATEMENT FROM THE EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE OF CONVOCATION
The Executive Committee of Convocation of the University of the Witwatersrand mourns the death of Wits alumnus and first President of a democratic South Africa, Nelson Rolihlahla Mandela.
We pay tribute to this great leader who taught us what servant leadership is really about. With his courage, tenacity and patience, he led our country towards democracy during a difficult time. While he was humble he also had incredible presence and influence; he made us understand that true leadership is not just about leading only those who agree with us or are like us. He taught us that the real test of our leadership comes when we have to work with those we do not like or those who do not always agree with us. He met, listened and engaged with South Africans of all cultures and political persuasions, from the AWB to the Ximoko party, irrespective of their representation (or not) in Parliament. Mr Mandela was a true Witsie who understood the importance of diversity in building a vibrant democracy in our country. He epitomised the human spirit in its complexity, diversity and optimism.
We pay tribute to his memory, send our condolences to the family and share the sense of loss felt by all true South Africans and freedom-loving citizens of the world.
Prof. Mamokgethi Phakeng
President of Convocation
(on behalf of the Executive Committee of Convocation)
GET DETAILS ON UNIVERSITY APPLICATION IN SA