ALASA celebrates three decades

The African Language Association of Southern Africa (ALASA) is celebrating its 30th year of existence. It was established in 1979 as a non-discriminatory, non-profit making association at a conference hosted by the Department of African Languages of the University of South Africa. Today, this association has more than 330 members from all corners of the world.

This year, it hosted its 15th Biennial Conference at the University of the Western Cape from 8 to 10 July 2009. More than sixty papers were presented. In addition, three keynote addresses were also delivered.

During this conference, Prof Christiaan Swanepoel, former Deputy Dean, Dean of the Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences, and Vice-Principal: Tuition and Research, was awarded honorary membership of the association. Prof Phalandwa Mulaudzi of the Centre for African Renaissance Studies (CARS) conferred the award on Prof Swanepoel for his outstanding contributions in the field of African literature, as well as for his long-term affiliation and service to ALASA since its inception, serving in various capacities such as editor, treasurer and chairperson.

Prof Mulaudzi was elected as 9th Chairperson of ALASA. Other members of the executive from the Unisa Department of African Languages are Prof Ingeborg Kosch, Editor, Dr Mampaka Mojapelo, Treasurer, and Prof Davie Mutasa as an additional member.