The legacy of acclaimed South African writer, educator, artist and activist Es'kia Mphahlele will take centre stage at the University of South Africa's (Unisa) North Eastern Regional Hub in Polokwane when Zimbabwean author, poet and filmmaker Tsitsi Dangarembga delivers the university's 17th annual Es’kia Mphahlele Memorial Lecture.

The lecture will be held under the theme "The African writer as a prophet and social critic in contemporary times", creating a platform for discussion about the role of African literature and writers in responding to contemporary social issues.

The annual lecture honours Mphahlele's contribution to African literature, education and social development while providing a space for intellectual engagement on literature and society.

Mphahlele's association with Unisa adds particular significance to the annual lecture. He completed his BA, BA Honours and MA degrees through the university by correspondence before earning his doctorate from the University of Denver in the United States.

Born in Marabastad, Pretoria, in 1919, Mphahlele became one of the most influential figures in modern African literature. His work as a writer, educationist, artist and activist earned him recognition as the Father of African Humanism.

His literary works include Down Second Avenue, In Corner B, Chirundu, Renewal Time, Father Come Home and The Wanderers. He also wrote more than 30 short stories, two verse plays and several poems.

Mphahlele died in October 2008, but his contribution to African literature and intellectual life continues to be commemorated through the annual lecture established in his name.

This year's lecture will be delivered by Dangarembga, an internationally recognised writer and filmmaker whose work spans literature, film and social commentary.

She has taught and delivered talks at universities across Africa, Europe and the United States. She is also the owner of Nyerai Films and founding director of the Institute of Creative Arts for Progress in Africa (ICAPA) Trust.

Through her work in film, Dangarembga has supported the development of women filmmakers on the African continent.

Her participation is expected to bring a contemporary perspective to the lecture theme, particularly the role of African writers in engaging with social and political realities through literature and other creative forms.

The programme will include a question-and-answer session, as well as the announcement and presentation of prizes to the winners of the Es'kia Mphahlele Reading and Writing Competition.

The lecture is expected to bring together academics, Unisa staff, government and public-sector representatives, civil society organisations, higher education institutions and members of the media.

Those unable to attend in person can watch the lecture via Unisa's YouTube channel.

Watch the Es’kia Mphahlele Memorial Lecture live on YouTube

By Noxolo Miya, Journalist, Department of Institutional Advancement