by Chalotte Mokonyane
Dr Ntsiki Biko, who has spent decades dedicated to uplifting her community, was awarded an honorary Doctor of Laws degree in recognition of her significant contributions by Rhodes University.
Vice Chancellor of Rhodes University, Professor Siswe Mabizela, highlighted the profound honour the institution felt in robing Dr Biko, acknowledging her work as a community activist. “She gave hope to many people, instilling in them a sense of self-reliance and personal urgency. She is an amazing community builder, and she has gone about it quietly and dignifiedly,” said Professor Mabizela. He further emphasised that the event was a celebration of Dr Biko’s achievements and a symbolic completion of her recognition, which had been postponed in 2021 due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
Professor Mabizela also noted that the ceremony was significant for Rhodes University, as it exemplifies leadership and selflessness for current and future students. “We want to recognise leaders who have made a real difference so that our students can aspire to create change in their own communities,” he added.
Nompumelelo Babeli, a Rhodes University alumna and PhD candidate, also spoke at the event. She shared how Dr Biko’s life story inspired her to focus her master’s thesis on women’s contributions during apartheid. She praised Biko as a potent reminder that knowledge is not just for the mind but also the heart and hands.
In her speech, Biko reflected on her life’s work, dedicating her energy to raising her children and working for the betterment of her community after her husband’s death. She spoke about her role as a trustee of the Ginsberg Education Trust, later evolving into the Zingisa Trust, which helped young people access education opportunities.
Biko concluded by expressing her gratitude, saying she accepted the honour not out of personal love but because it was a recognition of the rigorous work she had done for her community.
