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

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

This year, as South Africa celebrates 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

This year's 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

This year, 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

Sports Festival

09 - 10 August 2024

This event will include the following Universities: UWC, UCT, CPUT, Sol Plaatjie, NMU, WSU, UFH, and Makhanda local teams.

Honours Doc Music Festival

07 September 2024

A prominent HonDoc is expected to headline a special music event during the week of the Convocation meeting.

The Great Field Naming

23 November 2024

The naming of the Great Field to “The Ally Weakley Great Field”. A sports Alumni Dinner will be held in the evening.

RU120 Highlights

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