University of Limpopo

On 21 August 2010, the University of Limpopo International Students Association (ULISA) was celebrating the annual cultural day at South Gate Lodge, Polokwane, Limpopo. AISA was represented by Dr Lekgotla Mafisa, Chief Research Specialist in the Knowledge Production and Skills Development Unit who delivered the keynote address titled Identity, Diversity and Culture as part of African affairs agenda. He also enlightened students about the programmes that the organisation runs such as AISA Young Graduate Scholars, Research Fellowships and Campus Lecture Series. During the event, students from diverse backgrounds showcased their talents by reciting poetry, donning of traditional outfits, playing traditional music and dance, and rapping contemporary music. The celebration of cultural diversity by the students at the University of Limpopo offered an opportunity for AISA to raise issues which it is passionate about: Our Africanness, ubuntu, scholarship, ethics, tolerance and unity in diversity. The message was well received and underscoring that we cannot shirk our responsibility from being of service to our fellow human beings. Mr Morwamoche Ntwampe read a speech on behalf of Prof. N Mahlo Mokgalong, the Vice Chancellor of the University of Limpopo, who could not attend the event due to unforeseen work commitments. In the speech, he encouraged students to work hard towards their examinations and not be distracted from their studies due to the xenophobic violence that gripped South Africa in 2008 and also affected academic communities.