Mail & Guardian
Mail & Guardian

Sol Plaatje University

In the news
Perspective: Sol Plaatje was the righter of the wrongs of Western literature’s view of black people. Photo: Sol Plaatje Papers, Historical Papers Research Archive, University of the Witwatersrand
BOOKS

Mhudi’, a novel ahead of its time

Published in 1930, Sol Plaatje’s epic Mhudi challenged colonial perspectives and societal gender norms, establishing a pioneering milestone in South African and African literature.

  • Sabata-Mpho Mokae
4 min read
Humanity: Sol Plaatje placed his gifts at the service of African dignity
EDUCATION

Sol Tshekisho Plaatje: His name is everywhere . . . his legacy must be too

Marking 150 years since the birth of Solomon Tshekisho Plaatje, Chancellor Thebe Ikalafeng reflects on how this pioneer of African dignity should be central to our education and…

  • Thebe Ikalafeng
6 min read
A shared truimph: The grave of Solomon Tshekisho Plaatje, whose work helped shape South Africa’s democratic and cultural vision. Photo: Deshi Ngxanga
HISTORY

Plaatje was never a lone genius

As South Africa marks 150 years since the birth of Solomon Tshekisho Plaatje, we remember how the pioneer's towering legacy was shaped and sustained by a supportive community.

  • Brian Willan
6 min read
Intellectual: No South African thinker of the 20th century has produced a body of work that matches Sol Plaatje’s in its breadth, rigour and consequence. Photos: Northern Cape Provincial Government
SOUTH AFRICAN HISTORY

10 moments Plaatje changed SA forever

On his 150th birthday, a reappraisal of Solomon Tshekisho Plaatje highlights 10 pivotal moments where his pioneering journalism, activism, and intellectual work transformed South…

  • Lesley Mofokeng
9 min read