The message of support was delivered by Professor Mogomme Masoga, President of the South African Humanities Deans Association (SAHUDA) and Dean at the University of the Free State (UFS). In his remarks, he acknowledged the presence of the SAHUDA Vice-President, members, and all delegates attending both in person and online. He extended heartfelt appreciation to Walter Sisulu University for hosting this important conference and to its leadership for their commitment to advancing the humanities. Professor Masoga urged participants to revisit the Charter for the Humanities, now marking its 10th anniversary, as a guiding framework for relevance, impact, and excellence.
He reflected on the ongoing debates about a “crisis” in the humanities, inviting the audience to interrogate and redefine this narrative. Central to his message was the need to improve graduate employability, aligning programmes with contemporary social and economic realities. He also called for embracing digitalization and technology as powerful enablers of transformation in research, teaching, and collaboration. Professor Masoga emphasized the vital role of African languages as languages of science, essential to advancing intellectual autonomy and excellence. He cautioned against ethical lapses in academia and society, urging renewed focus on integrity and accountability.
In closing, his message reaffirmed that true excellence in the humanities must embody justice, inclusivity, and social responsibility, reminding all that progress in the field must leave no one behind.
