Stellenbosch University’s (SU) Prof Thuli Madonsela last night (15 August) received another feather in her cap as the recipient of the Annual Lifetime Achievement Award from the South African Education Law Association (SAELA). The award is given to individuals who have made significant contributions to the fields of education and law and have demonstrated outstanding dedication and hard work throughout their careers.
Madonsela, who serves as the Director of the Centre for Social Justice (CSJ) at SU, said it’s an honour and privilege to receive such recognition. “I was particularly overjoyed to receive this award as it represents a vote of confidence in the work that we are doing at the Centre from my peers. It’s heartwarming that our innovative social justice initiatives such as #Action4Inclusion, are being recognised as worthy by our peers in the education and legal professions. The award will have a special place in my collection, next to the Law Society and Commonwealth Lawyers Association Truth and Justice Awards, and the Sydney and Felicia Kentridge Award from the General Bar Council of South Africa.”
SAELA recognised Madonsela’s extensive experience as a professor of law and her esteemed position as the occupant of the Law Trust Research Chair in Social Justice at SU. In a statement on behalf of the association, SAELA President Prof Mariëtte Reyneke said Madonsela’s recent appointment to the United Nation’s Scientific Advisory Board for Independent Advice on Breakthroughs in Science and Technology is a testament to her contribution to the field of education and research.
“Prof Madonsela’s work in applied constitutional and administrative law, particularly in investigating improper conduct in state affairs, has been of immense importance in safeguarding the rights of citizens and promoting good governance,” Reyneke noted.
SAELA also acknowledged Madonsela’s role as the founder of the Thuma Foundation for Democracy Leadership and Literacy, which has been instrumental in nurturing leadership skills and promoting literacy among the youth.
Her former position as the Public Protector of South Africa and involvement in drafting the South African Constitution and various constitutionally mandated laws, such as the Promotion of Equality and Prevention of Unfair Discrimination Act (Equality Act), Employment Equity Act, and Promotion of Administrative Justice Act, highlight her unwavering dedication to upholding the principles of justice, equality and fairness, according to Reyneke. “Her legacy will undoubtedly continue to inspire generations of legal professionals and advocates of social justice.”
