DUT recently conferred an Honorary Doctorate in Arts and Design to anti-apartheid activist Ahmed Kathrada where the struggle icon dedicated his award to the men and women who lost their lives for the attainment of freedom in South Africa.

DUT honourary doctorate degrees are conferred in recognition of the positive work that prominent South Africans have shown in the country. Kathrada’s Honourary Doctorate acknowledged his contributions to literature as well as his outstanding contribution towards South African human rights and social justice.

Kathrada spent 26 years in prison with former president Nelson Mandela and Walter Sisulu. Although there was an 11-year age gap between the two (Mandela and Kathrada), they became close friends.

“I dedicate this honour to the men and women who are martyrs of our struggle and freedom. I had the privilege of spending my life sentence with Nelson Mandela and Walter Sisulu. I thank you for this honour and will always remember it. I dedicate it to those who did not have the opportunity to see it,” he said.

Kathrada’s interest in literature began at a tender age of 12, when he distributed political leaflets. Although he dropped out of his formal studies in matric to become a full-time political activist, he was also amongst the first Robben Island prisoners to complete a university degree. After this, he continued studying and completed his second degree and two honours degrees.
His many writings have become pearls of wisdom. This includes his books, such as Memoirs, where he reflects on his time incarcerated on Robben Island and Pollsmoor Prison. From the Island, Kathrada also wrote many letters to his niece, which is now captured in a publication.

Interestingly, Kathrada was also chosen by his fellow prisoners to head their “communications” work on the Island. Working closely with Mac Maharaj and Laloo Chiba, Kathrada creatively came up with ways to keep the channels of communication open among prisoners and the outside world.
He also contributed significantly to Nelson Mandela’s autobiography, which was smuggled out of prison and formed the basis for Long Walk to Freedom.

– Sinegugu Ndlovu

Pictured: Ahmed Kathrada being hooded by Professor Thenjiwe Meyiwa, DUT Registrar, during his graduation ceremony.