From the first internet protocol connection in SA, to producing some of the country’s greatest academics and journalists, Rhodes University has cemented itself as a place where leaders learn.
To celebrate 120 years of excellence, Rhodes University is honouring its rich academic history by launching RU120 - a year-long celebration of its status as one of the country’s top institutions of higher learning.
Explore the events below as the year unfolds...
More RU120
WATCH | Vice-Chancellor reflects on 120 years of achievements at Rhodes University
The celebrations provided the university with the opportunity to celebrate its achievements and reconnect with its alumni community, but most importantly, it is an opportunity to create a lasting impact on the lives of students and the Makhanda community.
Engaged citizenship at Rhodes University: A holistic approach to academics
Rhodes University has the highest proportion of student volunteers of any South African university, recognising engaged citizenship as a transformative approach to societal growth and education. Rhodes University is located away from major city distractions.
VIRTUAL TOUR | Explore the Rhodes University campus as we take you through 120 years of excellence
From its library of thousands of books to the iconic St Peter’s Lawn that elevated teacher education in the Eastern Cape, walk through some of Rhodes University’s historical buildings and learn more about how it grew to become the home of academic excellence it is today.
Watch | The art of change – the National Arts Festival and Rhodes University reflect on decades of collaboration
As South Africa celebrated 30 years of democracy, the National Arts Festival was looking forward to how it can transform and grow while maintaining its status as an emblem of inclusion, expression, protest, and liberation through the arts.
Celebrating 120 years of Impact: Rhodes University’s commitment to research and community
It is not merely the volume of research that sets Rhodes University apart; it is its unique position as South Africa’s only research-intensive university outside a major urban area.
Watch | Rhodes University graduation: Celebrating excellence, emotional firsts, and leading the way for new leaders
As Khubalo Mpofu crossed the graduation stage at Rhodes University, she felt the presence of her late mother as the crowd's ululations echoed through the hall. She was one of 2 035 graduates who have been set on the path to become new leaders.
Watch | Rhodes University Journalism Summit charts future of media, honours legacy of John Tengo Jabavu
Rhodes University Journalism Summit focused on various issues, including trauma and conflict, the laws that regulate journalism, journalism in a democracy, and the role artificial intelligence plays in journalism.
Watch | Rhodes University Marks 120 Years of Academic and Cultural Milestones
Rhodes University proudly commemorates a remarkable journey of 120 years. A beacon of knowledge in South Africa, the university has been instrumental in shaping the nation's academic and cultural landscape.
120 years of excellence – Rhodes University is celebrating in style
To celebrate its 120 years of excellence Rhodes University will be honouring its rich academic history while looking to the future on how they can advance higher education and research in South Africa.
Explore the Events
Focusing on the arts
As the university marked 120 years of academic excellence, it reflected on the rich tapestry of history and transformation that defines its decades of contributions to the arts. Rhodes University hosted a series of performances and exhibits as part of the official National Art Festival (NAF) programme, which marked its 50th anniversary, between 20 and 30 June 2024 in Makhanda.
Groundbreaking nanotechnology research institute
Distinguished Professor Tebello Nyokong marked the launch of the state-of-the-art Tebello Nyokong Institute for Nanotechnology Innovation (Nyokong Institute, in short) in Makhanda by establishing a scholarship fund for Master’s and PhD students. This initiative is funded by her personal award-winnings accumulated over the years.
Naming of the Great Field: a tribute to Ally Weakley
23 November 2024
Rhodes University honoured one of its most esteemed alumni, Ally Weakley, by naming its iconic Great Field after him on the 23rd of November 2024. The Ally Weakley Great Field was unveiled during a moving ceremony as part of the University’s 120th-anniversary celebrations.
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