Baroness Valerie Amos to present the 7th Annual Social Justice Lecture at Stellenbosch University
Baroness Valerie Amos
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Stellenbosch University (SU), in collaboration with the Baxter Theatre Centre, is set to host a momentous event on Friday, 20 February, as The Rt Hon Baroness Valerie Amos LG CH PC, one of the United Kingdom’s most distinguished public servants and global humanitarian leaders, presents the 7th Annual Social Justice Lecture. The lecture, which coincides with World Day of Social Justice, will be held at the Baxter Theatre Centre in Rondebosch at 17:00 and will also be broadcast live on SAFM.
This year's theme, “Illusions of Stability: Delivering Social Justice in a Period of Polarisation and Global Instability”, promises to ignite thought-provoking discussions around the critical challenges facing contemporary society. The event will commence with an opening address by SU’s Rector and Vice-Chancellor, Prof Deresh Ramjugernath, followed by a conversation between Baroness Amos and Prof Thuli Madonsela, Director of the Centre for Social Justice (CSJ). The lecture will culminate in a Q&A session, allowing attendees to engage directly with Baroness Amos.
A pioneering voice for social justice
Baroness Amos holds a prominent position as the Master of University College, Oxford, having made history as the first Black individual to lead an Oxford college in its 900-year legacy. Her illustrious career includes significant roles in local and national government in the UK, particularly as Secretary of State for International Development and Leader of the House of Lords, making her the first Black woman to serve in the British Cabinet. Notably, her tenure at the United Nations as Under-Secretary-General for Humanitarian Affairs showcased her leadership during humanitarian crises in West Africa and the Middle East.
Throughout her career, Baroness Amos has exemplified a resolute commitment to equality and social justice. Her passion for education as a catalyst for social change is embodied in the Amos Bursary, co-founded with her sister Colleen in 2008, which aims to empower young people of African and Caribbean heritage in their pursuit of higher education.
Engaging with South Africa’s youth
Baroness Amos expressed eagerness for her visit to South Africa, highlighting it as a hub of activism and progressive ideas.
“I look forward in particular to engaging with young people and hearing their thoughts about current geopolitical events,” she said. She commended the CSJ and Madonsela for championing dignity, accountability, and the restoration of public trust—all integral elements of the social justice agenda. “Amid current global events, we must examine the shifting dynamics of power,” Amos added, reflecting on her experiences and conversations with legendary figures like former President Nelson Mandela.
Her reflections on Mandela underline the importance of leadership qualities such as clarity of vision, understanding different perspectives, and the necessity of being adaptable without sacrificing core values. “It's about opening doors for others and advocating for change,” she noted, recognising the responsibility that comes with being a trailblazer.
Strengthening global partnerships for social justice
This year’s Social Justice Lecture marks a significant milestone as Stellenbosch University has recently been accepted as a partner in the International Labour Organisation’s Global Coalition for Social Justice. This coalition unites governments, international organisations, social partners, and academia, focusing on addressing inequality, advancing human and labour rights, and promoting inclusive development. The CSJ will act as SU’s institutional focal point in engaging with the Coalition, contributing to research and public dialogue aligned with its objectives.
Reflecting on the importance of this initiative, Prof Thuli Madonsela noted, “It is a profound honour to welcome Baroness Amos to Stellenbosch University. Her dedication to equality resonates deeply, particularly in a time of extreme polarisation.” SU’s Deputy Vice-Chancellor, Prof Sibusiso Moyo, emphasized the university’s role in fostering discourse on pressing global issues, particularly as the institution strengthens its impact through its partnership with the Coalition.
The 7th Annual Social Justice Lecture signifies not only Baroness Amos’ profound contributions to the discourse around social equity but also the university's commitment to participating actively in global conversations surrounding social justice. The event heralds a new chapter in SU’s engagement with international social justice initiatives and scholarship.