This comes, as the institution celebrates 200 years of the written isiXhosa language.
The author of the first extant novel in the Xhosa language, ‘Ityala Lamawele’ has been remembered for his stories, poems and interest in culture.
Celebrating 200 years of the written isiXhosa language. IsiXhosa is a Nguni language and one the official languages of South Africa.
Spoken as a first language by approximately 10 million people and second language by 11 million.
It was first written down and published on the banks of the Tyhume River, at Alice in the Eastern Cape.
SEK Mqhayi was one of the well-known authors who contributed to the growth of the language.
Deputy Minister of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs (COGTA), Zolile Ncamashe says, “We are really honoured that we could honour Mqhayi in this way, because of his immense contribution to isiXhosa literature. He took so much pride in this language and wanted to make sure that the language is preserved. Universities must take it upon themselves to do everything in their power to ensure that the legacy of Mkhayi lives on.”
Mqhayi’s writing ranged from Xhosa dramas and novels, to biographies and history. Preserving the language in the 20th century.
He was also a forerunner to democracy, a visionary who had ideas for his country that only came to fruition 50 years after his death.
