Unisa, in partnership with the Oliver and Adelaide Tambo Foundation, commemorated the legacy of Oliver Reginald Tambo during the 4th Annual OR Tambo Memorial Lecture on 18 October 2024, at the Muckleneuk Campus. Themed Integrating Constitutionalism and Ethical Leadership to Reclaim Africa’s Intellectual Futures, the event highlighted Tambo’s enduring impact on constitutionalism, democracy, and ethical governance.
Guests during the unveiling of the exhibition at the Thabo Mbeki Presidential Library
Adding to this powerful tribute, Unisa’s Library and Information Services (LIS) unveiled a digital exhibition at the Thabo Mbeki Presidential Library. The exhibition, which was held as part of the memorial lecture, celebrated Tambo’s pivotal role in South Africa’s liberation and his contributions to African unity and global leadership.
LIS showcased a rich collection of digitised materials from its archives, made accessible through a deed of donation. These resources are now available for educational use, reflecting Unisa’s commitment to preserving and sharing Africa’s intellectual heritage. Attendees were captivated by the digital displays, which brought Tambo’s story to life and highlighted his visionary leadership.
The Thabo Mbeki Presidential Library, a centre for African scholarship, complemented the event with its extensive research facilities and curated artifacts. This collaboration not only honoured Tambo’s legacy but also reinforced the importance of safeguarding Africa’s historical and cultural narratives.
By making these digitised archives accessible, Unisa is empowering future generations to learn from Africa’s rich history and the leaders who shaped its path to freedom. The digital exhibition stands as a testament to Tambo’s ideals and a reminder of the critical role educational institutions play in the preservation of the intellectual and cultural identity of the continent.
* By Dr Daniel Mosako, Senior Lecturer, Library and Information Services
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