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28 February 2024 | Story ANTHONY MTHEMBU | Photo Anthony Mthembu
Tlotlisang Mhlambiso’s Literary Debut Promotes IsiXhosa Heritage
Tlotlisang Mhlambiso, with three student participants awarded copies of the anthology.

The University of the Free State Library and Information Services (UFS LIS), in collaboration with the UFS African Languages Press (UFSALP) and the Charmza Literary Club, recently hosted a significant book launch event. This gathering celebrated the debut anthology titled “Phind’ubhale: Imibongo YesiXhosa” by Tlotlisang Mhlambiso, a student at the UFS. The event, held on 24 February 2024 at the Assemblies of God church in Bloemfontein, attracted a diverse audience, including educators and students from local schools such as Ihobe Primary School, Vulamasango Secondary School and Nozala Intermediate School.

About the anthology

Mhlambiso’s anthology comprises nearly 60 poems, all composed in IsiXhosa, his native language. Exploring themes ranging from mental health and love to faith and navigating life’s challenges, Mhlambiso underscores the significance of writing in indigenous languages, considering it an integral part of cultural heritage. He aims not only to promote IsiXhosa but also to inspire and empower young readers.

Appropriately released during the International Mother Language Day celebrations on 21 February 2024, the anthology launch aligns with the mission of UFS LIS and UFSALP to foster a culture of reading among learners and encourage recreational reading in IsiXhosa.

The launch event

During the event, Mhlambiso engaged with the audience, particularly the learners, who had the opportunity to recite excerpts from the anthology. Mhlambiso himself recited one of his favourite poems from the book, titled “Phind’ubhale.” Outstanding student participants were rewarded with copies of the anthology as part of an initiative aimed at promoting literacy and motivation among young learners.

Commenting on the event, Vuyisile Mpinga, Principal of Nozala Intermediate School, expressed gratitude, noting the positive impact such initiatives have on learner motivation and achievement.

Mhlambiso’s future endeavours

Despite his notable literary achievements, Mhlambiso remains committed to furthering the cause of indigenous languages. Currently pursuing a Bachelor of Education Honours in Curriculum Studies, with a specialisation in Languages, he intends to advocate for the importance of indigenous languages in schools across the country.  

Book Launch

Tlotlisang Mhlambiso with educators from the schools invited to the launch.  

News Archive

King Letsie III wishes Moshoeshoe project every success
2004-10-14



King Letsie III of Lesotho attaches great importance to the Moshoeshoe project of the University of the Free State (UFS) and wishes it every success.

This was the message of King Letsie III to the audience that attended the première of the documentary on King Moshoeshoe, the founder of the Basotho nation, at the UFS last night ( Wednesday 13 October 2004).

The message was read on his behalf by Lesotho’s Minister of Communications, Science and Technology, Dr Mamphono Khaketla.

Dr Khaketla said that through this important initiative the UFS is sending an important message that the current and future leadership can learn useful lessons from past great leaders such as King Moshoeshoe.

She said the screening of the documentary on King Moshoeshoe was a joyous occasion where the leadership attributes of a great Basotho King, who lived more than two hundred years ago, have been captured on film.

“The initiative which has brought us together, demonstrates the importance which the University of the Free State attaches to leadership, particularly in our southern African region,” she said.

Dignitaries in the audience included the Lesotho Minister for Communications, Science and Technology, Dr Mamphono Khaketla, Queen Mopeli, the MEC for Education, Ouma Tsopo, the MEC for Safety and Liaison, Tate Makgoe, the Director General of the Free State, Dr Khotso de Wee, the Senior Private Secretary to King Letsie III, Mr Mabotse Lerotholi, the Vice-chancellor of the National University of Lesotho, Dr Mothibe, Acting Principal Secretary in the Ministry of Tourism, Environment and Culture, Mr Jobo Molapo, Chairman of the Council of the University of the Free State, Judge Faan Hancke, and Rector and Vice-chancellor of the University of the Free State, Prof. Frederick Fourie.

The documentary on the life and legacy of King Moshoeshoe was commissioned by the UFS as part of its Centenary year. It was produced by journalist Max du Preez and it will be screened on SABC 2 on Thursday 4 November 2004.
 

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