South Africa and the world will be celebrating Nelson Mandela International Day on 18 July 2015. Mandela International Day is a global call to action that celebrates the idea that each individual has the power to transform the world and make a difference.

Mandela gave 67 years of his life to the struggle for human rights and social justice.  Madiba once said, “It is in your hands to create a better world for all who live in it”.  As an institution we believe that each of us has the ability and responsibility to help change the community around us for the better.

I am proud of the fact that the University of Pretoria staff and students will be participating in a number of worthy projects in celebration of Mandela Day. UP’s motto is to “make today matter” and if we apply the spirit of Mandela Day, every day, we will not only be honouring our late statesman’s legacy but also help to create the country of our dreams.