By Nosiphiwe Nyangana and Siphesihle Mkhwanazi
The Rhodes University Zulu Society joined the Nelson Mandela University Zulu Nostra Society for a vibrant Heritage Month celebration earlier this month at NMU’s South Campus Auditorium, where students, artists, and invited societies gathered to honour traditional music, dance, and tradition.
The program featured performances from the Zulu, Xhosa, VhaVenda, Tsonga, and Ndebele societies, showcasing the richness of indigenous practices and traditions.
Organised to highlight the importance of cultural identity within a diverse university community, the celebration unfolded through dynamic performances, thought-provoking speeches, and displays that emphasised unity in heritage.
Guest societies from Walter Sisulu University (WSU) and the University of Fort Hare (UFH) joined in, adding depth and diversity to the occasion. The program was further enriched by performances and presentations from respected artists and cultural figures like Saliwa Ndunakazi, Ndoni Ndunakazi, Gqizile Khanyile, Gandaganda Mboma, Phakela Ndabandaba, and Isulumane Msweli, who entertained the audience with music, personal stories, and traditional history.
The event was also graced by two guests from the Zulu royal family, who expressed the importance of cultural preservation, sharing knowledge on heritage and the relevance of Zulu traditions in society.
In an interview, the chairperson of the NMU Zulu Society and event organiser, Andile Malandela, said the event carried deep personal meaning for him and many others. He said the overwhelming turnout of students, along with the support of invited societies and artists, was especially significant for him as someone from KwaZulu-Natal receiving such warm recognition in the Eastern Cape.
Other attendees echoed this sentiment, noting that the event’s celebration of cultural diversity was powerful. They emphasised that it demonstrated how young people continue to value, respect, and honour their cultures and heritage. This event not only celebrated Zulu heritage but also reinforced the importance of embracing cultural diversity on campus. It served as a reminder that traditions remain a vital part of identity and continue to unite communities across provinces.
Speaking to the students, cultural figure Phakela reminded the audience of the deeper purpose of university: “You must always respect society, respect yourselves, and remember what you came to do at university. If you stay true to that, you will definitely make your parents proud.”
