Johannesburg: South Africans must draw inspiration from the life and legacy of struggle icon Charlotte Maxeke to confront the scourge of gender-based violence and femicide (GBVF), economic exclusion, and all forms of discrimination.
According to South African Government News Agency, Deputy President Paul Mashatile addressed the 125th Graduation Anniversary Memorial Lecture of Maxeke on Saturday. He emphasized the importance of Maxeke's teachings, stating, "She taught us that learning must uplift the underprivileged, give voice to the voiceless, and open doors where walls once stood. She whispered to us across time that, 'If you rise, bring someone with you.'"
Mashatile highlighted the responsibility of South Africans to uphold Maxeke's legacy of resilience and equality. "It is now in our hands to eliminate gender-based violence and femicide, to dismantle economic exclusion, and to uproot all forms of discrimination that continue to weigh upon women and girls," he said.
Maxeke holds the distinction of being the first black woman to obtain a university degree in South Africa. Her efforts in education and activism were pivotal during a time when African voices were suppressed by colonialism, and patriarchy sought to confine African women.
Deputy President Mashatile further stated that Maxeke's principles remain relevant today and should be integrated into modern technological developments to prevent further marginalization of vulnerable groups. "In these contemporary times of AI [artificial intelligence], technology, and digitalisation, her legacy advocates for technology that promotes inclusivity and shared knowledge."
Mashatile concluded by emphasizing that education should empower and guide future leaders to drive impactful changes in their communities and the broader economic landscape.