Durban, South Africa – Professor Daniel Sekepe Matjila, hailing from Hammanskraal in Temba, has received a prestigious accolade for his groundbreaking article, “Water as a Metaphorical Marker in Setswana and Afrikaans Poetry.” Prof Matjila, a member of the Department of African Languages at the College of Human Sciences, was honored at the 25th International Conference of the African Language Association of Southern Africa (ALASA), held at the Durban Coastlands Hotel and Resort from July 9 to 12, 2024.
Hlubi Veli Mabona from the Communications and Marketing Office at UNISA said that Professor Matjila’s academic journey is characterized by a deep commitment to community building and empowerment. His diverse initiatives, which encompass language, literature, and creative writing projects, reflect this dedication. Notably, the Indigenous Text Editing project has provided authors and language practitioners with vital access to book publishing. Additionally, Prof. Matjila’s frequent radio appearances further exemplify his efforts to inspire and uplift ordinary South Africans.
Drawing from rich cultural backgrounds, Prof. Matjila views himself as a modern-day shaman. His experiences during apartheid have significantly shaped his understanding of oppression and the imperative for Africans to reinvent their cultures and languages.
In addressing the challenges of balancing academic responsibilities with personal life, Prof. Matjila highlighted the importance of planning and discipline. “Achieving a healthy balance between work, family, and other commitments is key,” Prof. Matjila stated.
His research employs a multi-inter-transdisciplinary (MIT) approach, seamlessly bridging fields such as politics, psychology, environmental studies, and history. This comprehensive perspective enhances his contributions to African languages and literature. Professor Nxalati Charlotte Golele ignited his passion for research in 1994, and he further developed it through participation in the African Language Project Conference in Maryland in 1995.
Prof. Matjila’s enthusiasm for education is evident in his commitment to encouraging open communication with students. He strives to motivate and support them, advocating for fairness and consistency in assessments to promote constructive outcomes.
Community engagement is another cornerstone of Prof. Matjila’s work. He believes that community-engaged research is a collaborative process that enriches academic practices while benefiting community well-being. “Bridging the gap between academia and the broader community is vital,” he emphasized.
Mr Mabona said the recent award from the ALASA conference serves as a significant recognition of Prof. Matjila’s contributions, enhancing his self-esteem and confidence and reflecting his high level of accomplishment. His international research engagements at esteemed institutions such as the University of Pennsylvania and the University of Michigan further illustrate his active participation in global academic discourse.
He said Prof. Matjila continues to apply his interdisciplinary approach to literary analysis, aiming to leave a legacy of inspiration and authenticity within academia and society. His award highlights the profound impact of his work and his journey in advancing African languages and literature.
