29 July 2024
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Story Jacky Tshokwe
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Photo Supplied
The University of the Free State (UFS) Library and Information Services (LIS) is proud to announce an ambitious and culturally enriching project in celebration of the Basotho Bicentennial. This initiative marks 200 years of the rich history and culture
of the Basotho people, focusing on the promotion, preservation, and publication of high-quality original African language monographs and research. By actively contributing to the restoration of dignity for marginalised African indigenous languages,
the UFS is at the forefront of the broader decolonisation agenda.
UFS African Languages Press: A commitment to cultural preservation
Established in July 2022, the University of the Free State African Languages Press (UFSALP) is dedicated to promoting, preserving, and producing monographs in African languages. With the support of both internal and external stakeholders, UFSALP aims to ensure that the vision of celebrating and enriching African languages and culture is fully realised. This project exemplifies the university's commitment to cultural preservation and academic excellence.
Upcoming events to honour Basotho Bicentennial
1 August 2024: Sesotho Language Colloquium and theatre production
- Venue: Albert Wessels Auditorium
- Colloquium time: 10:00-13:00
- Theatre production time: 14:30-15:30
In partnership with PanSALB, the Sesotho Language Colloquium will explore the linguistic heritage and future of Sesotho as a written language. Later in the day, the UFS Department of Drama, in collaboration with Bahale Arts Academy, will present Bitla
la Marena, a play written and directed by Liatile Mohale, an alumna of the University of the Free State.
2 August 2024: Literary Festival and public lecture
- Venue: Centenary Complex
- Public lecture time: 10:00-11:30
- Book launch and literature festival time: 12:00-15:30
A public lecture Presented by ’Me Malerotholi with the topic title; Queen Manthatisi Lessons and Reflections of the 200 years. Additionally, The Literary Festival will feature a book launch’ Basotho, Seho se llile, poetry readings, and storytelling
sessions, celebrating Basotho literature and oral traditions.
3 August 2024: Basotho New Year Celebrations
- Venue: Basotho Cultural Village, Qwaqwa
In collaboration with the Department of Sports, Arts, Culture, and Recreation, we will join the Basotho New Year Celebrations at the Basotho Cultural Village in Qwaqwa.
21-24 August 2024: NUL Basotho Conference
- Venue: Thaba Bosiu, Lesotho
We will partner with the National University of Lesotho for the Basotho Conference at Thaba Bosiu, contributing to academic discussions and cultural celebrations.
Collaborators and Supporters
This initiative is supported by a diverse group of collaborators, including:
- Supporting Organisations: Free State Provincial House of Traditional and Khoi San Leaders (COGTA), College of Chiefs, SADiLaR, PanSALB, Free State Department of Sports, Arts, Culture, and Recreation, NUL, Mohoo wa Moshoeshoe, and Chabana sa Khomo Heritage Association.
Join us in celebrating Basotho heritage
We invite the UFS community and the public to join us in celebrating this historic milestone. Together, we can honour the rich heritage of the Basotho people and contribute to the preservation and promotion of African languages and culture. Stay tuned for more updates and events as we commemorate the Basotho Bicentennial.