Unisa online - Invisible footprints launched

From left: Ms Elna Harmse (Unisa Press), Prof Pitika Ntuli and his wife, Antoinette Ntuli

During an afternoon of passionate poetry and indigenous knowledge sharing, Prof Pitika Ntuli’s book entitled Scent of invisible footprints: the sculpture of Pitika Ntuli was launched at Museum Africa on 22 August 2010. The book was published by Unisa Press, with generous support from MTN.

The event was attended by giants in the arts world, including poet and author, Don Mattera; Ms Ntsiki Mazwai, a poet; Dr Otsile Ntsoane from Indigenous Knowledge Systems; Zama Batyi, a poet and an actor; Prof Tinyiko Maluleke, Executive Director: Research at Unisa; Mr Ali Hlongwane, Director of Museum Africa; and Prof Ntuli’s family, including his wife, Antoinette Ntuli.

The guests were treated to some fine art sculptures done by Prof Ntuli. Don Mattera and Ms Ntsiki Mazwai then performed their poetry to the amusement of the audience. Prof Maluleke said that “universities bestow degrees and honorary degrees on people, but Prof Ntuli has imparted knowledge to the university.” He added that people change during their studies, but “it is critical that as a people we remain African just like Prof Pitika Ntuli even after our academic achievements.”

The book was discussed by a panel consisting of the facilitator, Prof Yonah Seleti, and Prof Pitika Ntuli, Tumi Sedemedi and Prof Masilela.