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Unisa champions emerging voices and digital innovation at SASA 2025

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Prof Ngoako Marutha (Unisa), Richard Higgs (UCT), Phindile Bekwa (Air Traffic and Navigation Service, SA), Inkosi Jongisile Pokwana ka Menziwa (Former SASA President), Dr Lungile Luthuli (Unisa), Lufuno Kgamedi (Unisa), and Dr Paul Mullon (CoR Concepts)

The South African Society of Archivists (SASA) 2025 Annual Conference convened archivists, scholars and professionals from all over the country on the theme "Collaborative Archives and Records Management in the Era of Artificial Intelligence" from 8 to 11 July 2025 in Cape Town. Among the key institutional participants was Unisa, whose presence reaffirmed its commitment to shaping a digitally driven and inclusive archival future.

Unisa's Library and Information Services was represented by a dynamic delegation, including Lufuno Kgamedi, who engaged in critical discussions about the evolving challenges in archives and records management. Reflecting on the experience, she underscored the value of collaboration and open dialogue in the artificial intelligence era.

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Lufuno Kgamedi

"What stood out to me the most was the quality of the presentations and the depth of the discussions," said Kgamedi. "It was clear that many organisations are grappling with similar issues, especially about the digital transition. The willingness to share experiences reaffirmed the power of collective learning."

A notable moment at the conference was the nomination of Kgamedi to the SASA National Executive Committee (NEC). Although she was not elected in the final round, her nomination marked a progressive step toward generational inclusion in leadership spaces.

"Being nominated was more than a personal milestone," she shared. "It showed that SASA is actively opening up spaces for new voices and perspectives."

This commitment to fresh leadership was reinforced by the appointment of energetic new NEC members, including President, Maite Manganye, Dr Vanessa Mathope, and Dr Makutla Mojapelo from Unisa’s Department of Information Science. Their collective experience and youthful vigour signal a new era of engagement for the association.

The conference highlighted technological transitions and the importance of mentorship and intergenerational collaboration in navigating complex change. Kgamedi praised the role of seasoned professionals such as Professor Mpho Ngoepe, whose mentorship continues to shape the next generation of archivists.

"Leaders like Professor Ngoepe bring wisdom, networks and encouragement. Their support makes a meaningful difference for emerging professionals like me," she noted.

Unisa's participation in the SASA 2025 Annual Conference reflects the institution's leadership in driving meaningful conversations around digitisation, professional development and inclusive governance. Although the conference addressed the pressing realities of artificial intelligence, data ethics and collaborative models, it also created space for emerging voices to be heard.

Looking ahead, Unisa is poised to continue shaping the national archival agenda – one that honours tradition while embracing technological innovation and generational inclusion.

* By Moditsa Masela, Marketing and Communication Intern, Library and Information Services 

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Publish date: Fri Aug 01 12:59:53 SAST 2025

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