In 1968 I – along with about 600 other University of Cape Town students – defied the University authorities and the government to fight for the right of a black lecturer to teach.
Archie Mafeje, with excellent qualifications, was appointed but when government fury was unleashed against UCT a “white” university, the administration crumbled.
His appointment was withdrawn.
As students we were outraged and occupied university building. We held out for nine days, trying to get Mafeje reinstated.
In the end the cause was lost, but the benefit lives on. Those of us who participated established the “Spirit of ’68” which has given bursaries to needy students.
As we are gradually aging (some of us have died) this is finally being wound up.
But you may be interested in this report, explaining what the “Spirit of ’68” achieved.
Martin
Martin Plaut 