Transformation Indaba

The Transformation Indaba at Stellenbosch University is an annual forum that brings together staff and students to critically assess and discuss the institution’s progress in transformation. Organized by the Institutional Transformation Committee (ITC), the Indaba serves as a barometer and vital platform for reflecting on achievements, identifying challenges, and setting priorities for the upcoming year.

Objectives of the Transformation Indaba:

Strengthen Collective Responsibility: Foster a shared commitment to implementing and advancing transformation initiatives.
Assess Progress and Challenges: Evaluate the strides made in transformation and address any obstacles encountered.
Set Future Priorities: Determine key areas of focus for the next phase of transformation efforts.

Recent Themes and Keynote Speakers:

2025: The two-day Indaba was themed: Embarking on the next phase of holistic transformation, featuring keynote addresses by Prof. Christi van der Westhuizen at the University of the Western Cape and Ms. Lovelyn Nwadeyi founder and director of LN Advisors.
2024: The theme was “Accountability Matters,” featuring a keynote address by Prof. Saleem Badat, Research Professor at the University of the Free State.
2023: Focused on “Action-based Relational Transformation,” with a keynote by Prof. Grace Khunou, Director of Transformation and Leadership at UNISA.
2022: Centered on “Action-based, Value-rooted Relational Transformation,” with insights from Dr. Wilhelm Verwoerd, Senior Researcher at the Centre for the Study of the Afterlife of Violence and the Reparative Quest (AVReQ).
2021: Reflections on Transformation at Stellenbosch University by Prof Chris Brink – Emeritus Vice Chancellor, Stellenbosch and Newcastle Universities.

The Indaba typically includes plenary sessions, breakaway discussions, and collaborative workshops aimed at deepening understanding and promoting actionable outcomes in the transformation journey.