In a celebration of language, culture and scholarship, Unisa hosted the launch of Soshanguve paremiology+: A multilingual approach on 18 September 2025. The event, organised by the Department of Linguistics and Modern Languages in collaboration with Unisa Library and Information Services, formed part of the annual Language Management Week.

The programme began with a warm welcome from the programme director, followed by the official opening remarks from Prof Siyasanga Tyali, Director of the School of Arts. In his address, Tyali commended the editors and contributors for their visionary scholarship, describing the publication as "a flagship example of epistemic justice and inclusive scholarship". He emphasised that the book challenges the dominance of English in academia and promotes the intellectualisation of African languages.

A multilingual academic milestone

Soshanguve paremiology+: A multilingual approach explores the cultural, social and educational significance of African proverbs across several languages, including Xitsonga, Sepedi, Tshivenda and isiXhosa, among others. The publication illustrates how proverbs continue to shape thought, communication and moral values, even in the digital era.

Significantly, this is Unisa's first multilingual open-access book, ensuring free global access for students, researchers and communities. It stands as a milestone in the university's ongoing commitment to advancing inclusive and decolonised knowledge production.

Championing multilingualism and indigenous knowledge

Prof Madipoane Masenya, Executive Director in the Office of the Principal, delivered a compelling keynote address. Drawing from both African proverbs and biblical literature, she explored how indigenous sayings embody deep wisdom, moral instruction and cultural memory. Her insightful discussion on gender, language and heritage left the audience deeply moved and reflective.

Another highlight came from Prof Meahabo Magano, who underscored the need to reintroduce proverbs and idioms into South African education. She argued that "proverbs are not merely linguistic ornaments; they are powerful moral tools that shape identity, behaviour, and social harmony". 

Prof Mpho Ngoepe

A message from the editors

Although co-editor Dr Napjadi Letsoalo could not attend in person due to an academic programme abroad, his heartfelt message, read by Jimmy Mabina, Strategic Projects Coordinator from the College of Human Sciences, conveyed immense pride and gratitude for the collective achievement. He described the publication as "a bold response to the urgent call for linguistic and cultural revitalisation in South African higher education".

Letsoalo also extended his appreciation to Prof Mpho Ngoepe, co-editor and mentor, and acknowledged Prof Puleng LenkaBula, Unisa's Principal and Vice-Chancellor, whose foreword underscores the university's commitment to transformation through multilingualism.

Adding his voice, Ngoepe reflected on the long and rewarding journey of producing the book. He noted that the project, which took six years to complete, represents "a bridge between the past and the present; a conversation between languages, cultures and generations". He further remarked that "this publication goes beyond print; it is a living testimony of collaboration, creativity and the power of African scholarship to redefine global knowledge spaces".

Language Management Week: Celebrating African voices

The launch formed part of the fourth event in this year's Language Management Week, themed "African Languages in a Digital Era". Earlier in the week, Unisa hosted seminars, webinars and cultural engagements that explored language preservation, digital innovation, and the role of African languages in higher education.

The book launch served as a fitting climax to these activities, symbolising Unisa's leadership in promoting African scholarship, decolonisation and multilingual inclusivity.

A celebration of heritage and identity

The afternoon concluded with poetry, music and reflections that captured the spirit of Heritage Month. One speaker beautifully summarised the event's message by saying that "with words, hearts are mended; with proverbs, identities are restored".

In closing, Dr Khomotso Marumo encouraged continued celebration and preservation of indigenous knowledge, stating that "our proverbs carry the moral fibre of our communities; they remind us of who we are and where we come from".

Echoing this sentiment, Ngoepe reminded guests that the book is "more than ink on paper; it is a bridge between generations, a dialogue between languages, and a celebration of African wisdom".

* By Itumeleng Mpete, Marketing Coordinator, Library and Information Services