“VUT honours Simon Nkoli’s legacy, promoting LGBTQIA+ inclusion and HIV/AIDS awareness in South Africa.”
10 November 2025 | Story: Maswoba Raludzingana | Photo: Supplied
2 minutes read time
The Vaal University of Technology (VUT), in collaboration with the Sedibeng District Municipality, hosted the Simon Nkoli Legacy Lecture on 6 November 2025 at the African Languages Auditorium (CAD). The event paid tribute to the late Simon Nkoli, a renowned anti-apartheid activist, political prisoner, and one of South Africa’s foremost champions of LGBTQIA+ rights and HIV/AIDS awareness.
The lecture brought together students, academics, government representatives, and members of the LGBTQIA+ community in a powerful show of solidarity and reflection on Nkoli’s enduring contribution to equality and social justice. It also served as a platform to reaffirm the university’s commitment to diversity, inclusion, and the protection of human rights.
Delivering the keynote address, Sedibeng District Executive Mayor, Councillor Lerato Maloka, spoke passionately about Nkoli’s profound impact on South Africa’s journey towards freedom and equality.
“We are gathering here today to commemorate the life of no one but the freedom fighter, the political prisoner, and the HIV and AIDS activist who made something of himself and inspired generations,” she said.
Mayor Maloka further emphasised the importance of shared responsibility in advancing the rights of marginalised groups. Linking the lecture to Disability Rights Awareness Month, which is observed in November, she called for unity and inclusion across all sectors of society.
“As we commemorate Disability Rights Awareness Month, let us stand together and honour the legacy of Simon Nkoli. Let us affirm the independence and fundamental human rights of the queer community, ensuring full enjoyment without discrimination. We must continue to promote awareness, inclusion, and empowerment of the LGBTQIA+ community,” she said.
Adding to the discussion, Mx Thapelo Kgakatsi, Project Administration Manager at VUT, reflected on the importance of changing perceptions within communities. “If you can’t change a perception from within a household, how do you expect an entire nation to change? I say, teach one, for the one you teach will teach others,” he remarked, highlighting the role of education and dialogue in dismantling prejudice.
Sharing her reflections after the lecture, Naledi Mokoena, an LGBTQIA+ activist, expressed how deeply the event resonated with her. “Today’s lecture was deeply inspiring. Hearing about Simon Nkoli’s courage reminded me that the fight for equality is not over. As young people, we have a responsibility to continue his legacy by promoting respect, inclusion, and understanding in our communities,” she said.
The Simon Nkoli Legacy Lecture not only celebrated the life of a courageous activist but also served as a reminder of the ongoing work needed to achieve equality and justice for all. Through this event, VUT and its partners demonstrated their continued commitment to fostering a society where diversity is celebrated, human dignity is upheld, and the spirit of Simon Nkoli’s legacy endures.