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New open access book unveils The Faces and Phases of Inkosi Albert Luthuli
Unisa Press has recently published a groundbreaking book titled The Faces and Phases of Inkosi Albert Luthuli, edited by Prof Puleng Segalo and Dr Tinyiko Chauke. This publication is among the many open-access books and journals offered by Unisa Press. The book delves into the life and philosophies of Chief Albert Luthuli, applying his teachings to today's social, political and economic challenges. Through 12 chapters authored by various contributors, it examines Luthuli's enduring relevance to modern South Africa and its citizens. It urges readers to reflect on the injustices and inequalities that persist in society today. As an open-access book, it provides a platform for the authors and editors to reach a wider audience, thereby increasing the visibility and impact of their work.
New open access book unveils The Faces and Phases of Inkosi Albert Luthuli
The first official launch, coinciding with Chief Albert Luthuli's annual birthday celebration, took place on 18 July 2024 at Unisa's Library's Van Schaik Room. This event, celebrating the importance of this scholarly work on Luthuli, a Nobel Peace Prize laureate, was attended by a diverse audience of academics, students and members of the general public. The opening ceremony featured a musical performance by Dr Sepuru and Sintu Ndzube. Prof Les Labuschagne, Executive Director of the Research, Innovation and Commercialisation Department, provided the opening address, followed by reflections from the editor and contributing authors. Prof Mxolisi Mchunu, Council Chairperson at the Luthuli Museum, offered congratulatory remarks.
The second launch took place on 22 August 2024 and was part of the Luthuli Museum's 20th Anniversary celebrations. The three-day celebrations were held at the Museum in Groutville, KwaZulu-Natal, Albert Luthuli's hometown. Some of the events included a roundtable on 20 August 2024, focusing on Nokukhanya Luthuli's life; and a Public Lecture on 21 August 2024 by documentary filmmaker Prof Larry Shore, who discussed Chief Albert Luthuli and the American Anti-Apartheid Movement. Brian Xaba, Director at the Luthuli Museum, praised the book and welcomed its significance in today's society, emphasising: "Young people need to take the opportunity to reflect on Luthuli's contribution to the struggle against apartheid and how his efforts paved the way for the freedom we enjoy today."
Chapter author Prof Siphamandla Zondi, Editor Dr Tinyiko Chauke and author Dr Wiseman Mbatha.
The Faces and Phases of Inkosi Albert Luthuli is a significant contribution to African studies and human rights scholarship. Each chapter acknowledges and highlights the pivotal role that Inkosi Albert Luthuli played as a pioneer and leader in the South African freedom struggle. As an open-access publication, the book promotes knowledge sharing, collaboration and innovation within the academic and research communities.
The editors described the experience of compiling this book as incredibly rewarding. Chauke and Segalo jointly stated: "We gained new perspectives on Luthuli's life as a person, religious figure, academic, father, husband and leader. The contributors pushed boundaries and led us into uncharted territories, revealing previously untold stories that provided an insightful look at Luthuli's multifaceted political career. One of the most surprising aspects of Luthuli's leadership was the many faces and phases he embodied, which continue to resonate within various socio-political elements of South African life today."
The growing popularity of open-access publishing in the academic and scholarly communities fundamentally allows for academic research to be freely accessible to anyone with an internet connection. Open access ensures increased visibility, impact and global accessibility of research output. The book, initially funded by the National Institute of Social Sciences, allows readers to access it online for free, with print copies available for purchase. It is now available on the Unisa Press website.
* By Emmanuel Munano, Marketing Officer, Unisa Press
Publish date: 2024/09/04
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