The University of Cape Town (UCT) has received a generous $21.5 million grant from Atlantic Philanthropies to build the proposed Nelson Mandela Memorial Centre and School of Public Governance.
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The centre’s construction, which began on Friday, will be made possible by Atlantic Philanthropies, as well as generous grants and pledges from a variety of donors and alumni.
‘The Atlantic Philanthropies grant represents the largest single donation ever received by UCT and is a testament to the vision and impact of the project,’ said UCT Vice-Chancellor interim Emeritus Professor Daya Reddy.
‘Conceptualised to honour the legacy of the late President Nelson Rolihlahla Mandela, this iconic building will be a living memorial to emulate his leadership in the best way possible: by building a new generation of ethical leaders.’
‘The proposal is to build a new home for UCT’s Nelson Mandela School of Public Governance and the creation of a vibrant convening space within a memorial centre curated in collaboration with the Nelson Mandela Foundation.’
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‘The Nelson Mandela Memorial Centre and School of Public Governance will serve emerging leaders from across the African continent,’ Reddy added.
The precinct, which will be designed through an architectural design competition, will include interactive public art installations, contemplative walkways and meeting areas designed to promote catharsis, reflection and spiritual resonance, as well as opportunities for reflection on Nelson Mandela’s life and times.
The collaboration with the Nelson Mandela Foundation is consistent with UCT’s Vision 2030, which extends beyond South Africa to include the entire continent and the world at large.
Professor Faizel Ismail, Director of the Nelson Mandela School of Public Governance, emphasised the school’s commitment to developing the capabilities of the next generation of African leaders.
‘This leadership must draw on the legacy of the late Nelson Mandela and reflect the values of ubuntu while building the resilience of democratic institutions and transforming our economies to create a prosperous Africa in the 21st Century.’
While a team of dedicated professionals is working on the statutory processes to bring this iconic project to life, Professor Reddy invited UCT staff, alumni and students to support the proposed Nelson Mandela Memorial Centre and School of Public Governance ‘as we work together to uphold Madiba’s vision of justice, freedom, and human dignity.’
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Picture: Shawn Harrison/ Unsplash