The Consulate General of India in Cape Town recently commemorated Mahatma Gandhi's 157th birth anniversary, recognised globally by the United Nations as the International Day of Non-Violence. On October 2, 2026, the Consulate hosted events at two major Western Cape academic institutions: the University of the Western Cape (UWC) and Stellenbosch University. These events aimed to honour Gandhi's legacy and promote cultural exchange between India and South Africa.
At Stellenbosch University, Consul General of India Ruby Jaspreet and Rector and Vice-Chancellor Professor Deresh Ramjugernath inaugurated the "India Corner" at the university's library. The India Corner was set up with about a hundred books gifted by India to the University, covering topics such as Indian history, polity, economy, and culture. This initiative is part of the Government of India's efforts to establish dedicated reading corners in universities worldwide to foster academic, cultural, and people-to-people connections.
The inauguration event at Stellenbosch University was attended by key university representatives, including Deputy Vice-Chancellor Professor Sibusiso Moyo and Chief Director of Library and Information Services Ellen Tise. They expressed appreciation to the Indian government for the academic gift. The Consulate's gesture was seen as a significant contribution to the university's library resources, enhancing the availability of materials on Indian studies for students and researchers.
In a separate ceremony at the University of the Western Cape, officials gathered to honour Mahatma Gandhi's legacy. UWC Rector and Vice-Chancellor Professor Robert John Balfour addressed attendees on Gandhi's deep connection to South Africa and reflected on his philosophy of non-violence. The ceremony included a floral tribute at the bronze bust of Mahatma Gandhi located in the university library, which was gifted to UWC by the Government of India through the Consulate General in 2008.
During the ceremony at UWC, Consul General Ruby Jaspreet and Professor Balfour laid floral tributes at the bust of Mahatma Gandhi. University faculty members and visiting members of the diplomatic corps joined the leadership in paying their respects. The event highlighted the strong bond between India and South Africa, as well as the significance of Gandhi's legacy in promoting peace and non-violence.
The India Corner at Stellenbosch University and the commemorative event at UWC underscore the Consulate General of India's efforts to strengthen cultural and academic ties between India and South Africa. These initiatives also reflect the shared values of promoting education, peace, and cultural understanding between the two nations.
The events commemorating Mahatma Gandhi's 157th birth anniversary at UWC and Stellenbosch University demonstrate the ongoing commitment to fostering cooperation and mutual understanding between India and South Africa. By promoting educational and cultural exchanges, the Consulate General of India aims to enhance the relationship between the two countries and contribute to a more peaceful and interconnected world.
Key points
- The Consulate General of India in Cape Town marked Mahatma Gandhi's 157th birth anniversary with events at UWC and Stellenbosch University.
- The India Corner was inaugurated at Stellenbosch University's library with about a hundred books gifted by India.
- The events highlighted the strong bond between India and South Africa, as well as the significance of Gandhi's legacy in promoting peace and non-violence.
