To preserve the legacy of South Africa’s struggle stalwart, Mr Billy Nair, the Durban University of Technology Library proudly hosted the launch of the Billy Nair Archive Collection at the ML Sultan Campus Library in Durban on Wednesday, 15 April 2026.
This archival collection, housed in the ML Sultan Library’s Archives and Special Collections, highlights the legacy of a committed struggle stalwart who dedicated his life to justice, equality, and community activism. It has been curated from documents, books, and artefacts donated to the DUT Library by the Billy and Elsie Nair Trust, serving as a vital scholarly resource for researchers, students, and the wider community exploring South Africa’s democratic history and liberation narratives.
Facilitating the event, Ms Phumzile Xulu, Engagement Practitioner at DUT, shared that Mr Billy Nair and his wife, Mrs Elsie Nair, lived a humble life and dedicated their savings to the Billy and Elsie Nair Trust, which supports the education of disadvantaged learners. She noted that the archive is a partnership project between the Trust and DUT aimed at preserving legacy and inspiring future generations.
In his opening remarks, Executive Dean of the Faculty of Accounting and Informatics, Professor Oludayo Olugbara, emphasised the importance of the collection as both an academic resource and a tribute to a life of service. He noted that the archive will support interdisciplinary research, inspire students, and preserve national memory.
Distinguished guests at the launch of the Billy Nair Archive Collection.
Director of DUT Library Services, Dr Malefetjane Phaladi, described the launch as a significant milestone in preserving South Africa’s heritage. He highlighted DUT’s commitment to innovative curricula, impactful research, and meaningful societal engagement, noting that heritage preservation strengthens identity and supports education, tourism, and economic development.
Delivering the keynote address, Mr Mac Maharaj, struggle stalwart and former presidential spokesperson, commended DUT for ensuring access to Mr Nair’s archive. He reflected on Mr Nair’s contribution to South Africa’s liberation movement through organisations such as SACTU, the SACP, NIC, uMkhonto weSizwe, the UDF, and the ANC.
His address, titled Freedom is Indivisible, reflected on the Freedom Charter and the Constitution, urging the importance of defending constitutional democracy while distinguishing constructive criticism from efforts to undermine it.
Human rights lawyer Mr Krish Govender, who served as attorney to Mr and Mrs Nair, described the initiative as an important step in preserving and teaching South Africa’s history. Former DUT Library Director Mr Roy Raju also expressed pride in seeing the project come to fruition.
Closing the event, DUT Library Manager Mr Sagren Moodley thanked all stakeholders, including the Billy and Elsie Nair Trust, and reaffirmed DUT’s commitment to preserving South Africa’s heritage and inspiring future generations through stories of courage, resilience, and leadership.
Pictured: Mr Mac Maharaj delivering a keynote address at the Billy Nair Archive Collection launch.
Photographer: Vukani Langa.
Simangele Zuma
