The University of South Africa (Unisa) has learnt with sadness about the untimely passing of Ambassador Zindzi Mandela-Hlongwane.
Ambassador Mandela-Hlongwane is the daughter of internationally renowned anti-Apartheid and human rights activists, the late President Nelson Rolihlahla Mandela and Ms Winnie Madikizela-Mandela, both of whom have strong links with Unisa. She was also a renowned activist and public representative in her own right.
Madiba, as her father was affectionately known (which is also his clan name), acquired all his degrees (BA Law and LLB degrees) through Unisa and was also bestowed with a Doctor of Laws (honoris causa) degree by Unisa. On the other hand, Mam’ Winnie, as her mother was affectionately called, was posthumously bestowed with the degree of Doctor of Social Work (honoris causa) by Unisa, while the university’s landmark building housing the ZK Matthews Great Hall has been renamed the Winnie Madikizela-Mandela building in honour of her leading role and contribution as a human rights activist.
All these interactions led to the development of a strong bond between Unisa and the Mandela Family.
"Unisa joins the rest of the country and the international community in expressing our sincerest condolences to the Mandela, Madikizela and Hlongwane families and relatives during their time of bereavement. They are in our prayers and we wish them strength during this difficult time in their lives," said Unisa Principal and Vice Chancellor, Prof Mandla Makhanya.
Publish date: 2020-07-13 00:00:00.0