When Financial Sector Conduct Authority (FSCA) Commissioner and Rhodes University alumnus Unathi Kamlana rose to deliver the 11th Archbishop Thabo Makgoba Development Trust Annual Lecture, he did not begin with markets or policy. He began with values.

Rhodes University condemns the ongoing atrocities of the Israeli government against the people of Gaza. The relentless bombardment, the destruction of homes, schools, universities and other tertiary institutions, hospitals, and vital infrastructure, and the deliberate deprivation of food, water, electricity and medical aid are unconscionable crimes against humanity.

The announcement of the Sasol New Signatures award winners is a defining moment in the South African arts calendar, an annual demonstration of the nation's burgeoning creative talent. The Rhodes University Fine Art Department is celebrating a historic achievement this year. Two of its students from the Fine Art Practice program, specialising in Sculpture, were recognised for their ground-breaking work. It is worth noting that the Main Fine Art building is a gracious historic structure with the distinction of being the first purpose-built art school in the country.

Studying the Arts comes with unique challenges. Across South Africa, countless talented students brim with creative passion, yet opportunities to fund their education remain scarce. Unlike fields such as commerce or the sciences, where structured bursaries are more readily available, Arts students often stand on the margins – making every award, every act of support, all the more life-changing.