The event forms part of the broader National Dialogue initiative, pursued locally as a sectoral initiative and supported by the Strategic Dialogue Group (SDG) and the Thabo Mbeki Foundation.
It seeks to create an inclusive platform for meaningful engagement on the social, economic and developmental issues shaping South Africa’s future.
Convened under the theme “Reimagining and Co-creating the Eastern Cape Province We Want – A Higher Education Sectoral Contribution for a New Vision for South Africa”, the provincial launch brings together all the universities located in the Eastern Cape, Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) colleges, government, business, labour and civil society stakeholders to collectively explore pathways toward a more equitable and sustainable province.
Alongside President Mbeki, Vice-Chancellor Professor Sibongile Muthwa and other influential thought leaders from across the higher education and development sectors will also share reflections during the proceedings.
The event will be livestreamed on the University’s YouTube channel (@NelsonMandelaUniversity) to enable broader public participation. Citizens of the Eastern Cape are particularly encouraged to tune in and share comments and inputs, which will be considered as part of the Dialogue discussions and final report.