Rhodes University's Faculty of Law proudly announces a landmark occasion: its 120th anniversary, marking more than a century of unparalleled academic excellence and profound contributions to the South African legal landscape. As a testament to this enduring legacy and its pivotal role in shaping the nation's jurisprudence, the University will officially name its iconic Law Building in honour of one of its most distinguished alumni and the revered outgoing Chancellor, the Honourable Justice Lex Mpati.
“This occasion signifies a commitment to recognising visionary leaders and inspiring future generations who will uphold the rule of law across South Africa,” says Judge Gerald Bloem, Council Chairperson of Rhodes University.
“Justice Mpati's life and career embody the core values our institution promotes: integrity, excellence, and social justice. His jurisprudence consistently demonstrates a deep commitment to constitutional values, like equality and human dignity,” added Judge Bloem.
Rhodes University Vice-Chancellor, Professor Sizwe Mabizela, echoed these sentiments and added, “Justice Mpati was a father figure to me and someone who was a source of wisdom. He is an integrity personified – a quintessential gentleman and the embodiment of humility.”
Professor Mabizela noted: “When Justice Mpati became Chancellor of Rhodes University, it represented a significant transformation in this University. He was the first African to be Chancellor of Rhodes University – and the University could not have chosen a better son.”
Rhodes University Dean of Law, Professor Michelle Karels, agrees: “Coming from a background where he experienced the injustices of apartheid firsthand, Justice Mpati's rise to prominence represents the transformation we seek to inspire in our students – using law as a tool for positive social change.” Prof Karels adds: “Justice Mpati's leadership has demonstrated his commitment to accountability, transparency, and ethical governance – principles we aim to instill in our future legal professionals.”
The naming ceremony, set to take place on Tuesday, 26 August 2025, at the Rhodes University Law Building in Makhanda, marks a pivotal moment in the 120-year celebrations and will convene an esteemed assembly of South Africa's most prominent legal figures, judicial leaders, and valued alumni. This gathering serves not only to celebrate Justice Mpati's extraordinary legacy but also to ensure that the Lex Mpati name will stand as a daily reminder of what can be achieved through dedication to legal principles, commitment to education, and unwavering integrity.
About Justice Lex Mpati: Born in Durban in 1949, Justice Mpati's legal career represents an extraordinary journey from humble beginnings to the highest echelons of South Africa's judiciary. A proud alumnus who earned his BA in 1982 and LLB in 1984 from Rhodes University, he rose from a legal clerk to becoming President of the Supreme Court of Appeal. As a former Judge of the Eastern Cape Division of the High Court and later President of the Supreme Court of Appeal, Justice Mpati has significantly shaped South African jurisprudence during a critical period in our nation's development. He was also an acting judge in the Constitutional Court in 2007. Beyond his judicial work, Justice Mpati has distinguished himself in governance roles, most notably chairing the Commission of Inquiry into allegations of impropriety at the Public Investment Corporation (PIC). He served as Chancellor of Rhodes University for 13 years, bridging the world of academic legal education and judicial practice. His lectures, mentorship, and guidance have inspired generations of law students, many of whom have served in various capacities in our legal system. His commitment to legal education extends beyond formal roles, as he has consistently advocated for access to justice and legal education for all South Africans.
NOTE: For a short video of Justice Lex Mpati speaking on the transformation journey he has witnessed at Rhodes University, both as a student and as Chancellor, click here.