By Gofaone Motsamai

The North-West University (NWU) will host the Minister of Sports, Arts and Culture, Mr Gayton McKenzie, for a public lecture on 3 April 2025.

Organised by the Indigenous Language Media in Africa (ILMA) research niche area at the NWU’s Mahikeng Campus, the Minister’s lecture will explore the role of literary works and media in sustaining indigenous languages and cultural heritage in South Africa.

The event, which is part of the ILMA public lecture series, aims to foster discussions on publishing, arts and culture while examining how media and literature contribute to preserving indigenous languages. Minister McKenzie will outline the efforts of the Department of Sport, Arts and Culture in this regard, including key milestones, ongoing projects and opportunities within the sector.

“This public lecture is an important platform for dialogue on indigenous languages and media,” says Prof Abiodun Salawu, director of ILMA. “We believe that literature and media are crucial vehicles for preservation of cultural identity, and it is vital to engage with policymakers and stakeholders on this issue.”

The hybrid event, which starts at 12:00, will bring together academics, students and professionals from the creative industries. Attendees will have the opportunity to engage with Minister McKenzie on the government's role in promoting indigenous language development and cultural sustainability.

Prof Salawu emphasises ILMA’s commitment to advancing indigenous language discourse. “Our aim is to create spaces where policy, media and cultural preservation intersect. The public lecture aligns with our broader vision of ensuring that indigenous languages remain integral to South Africa’s cultural landscape.”

The public lecture is open to all interested stakeholders and will provide a critical space for reflection and engagement on language preservation efforts in South Africa.

Interested parties can join the public lecture on 3 April at 12:00 by clicking here