AVReQ recently had the honour of hosting Stellenbosch University’s new Rector and Vice-Chancellor (VC), Professor Deresh Ramjugernath, for a visit that brought together shared visions for research excellence, societal impact, and global collaboration. During the visit, the VC was introduced to the range of work undertaken at AVReQ. Fellows reflected on their research projects, explaining why it is meaningful to pursue this work at a Centre that values the intersection of academic inquiry and social responsibility. The conversation highlighted how AVReQ’s approach to research and creativity contributes to SU’s aspiration to be an African research-intensive university that serves society.
Not foreign to the work done at AVReQ, Prof Daresh Ramjugernath (far left) informs Dr Anell Stacey Daries(middle) and Prof Pumla Gobodo-Madikizela (right) how he has followed and been involved in the formation of AVReQ at an institutional level.
Prof Ramjugernath, who assumed office in April 2025, has outlined an ambitious agenda for Stellenbosch University (SU) focused on academic excellence, people and culture, and partnerships and sustainability. His goal of positioning SU among the world’s top 100 universities resonates strongly with AVReQ’s mission to advance socially engaged and interdisciplinary research that connects scholarship, creativity, and public relevance.
The visit also provided an opportunity to share details about the MPhil in Violent Histories and Repair, which is set to launch in 2026. The programme reflects AVReQ’s commitment to cultivating scholars who can critically and creatively engage with histories of violence and repair. It has been endorsed by internationally recognised scholars, including Prof Homi Bhabha (Harvard University), Prof John Brewer (Queen’s University Belfast), Prof Pumla D. Gqola (Nelson Mandela University), and Prof Kopano Ratele (Stellenbosch University). Their support affirms both the scholarly and global significance of this new programme.
In addition to the VC’s visit, AVReQ welcomed back Prof Patricia Parker from the University of North Carolina, who shared insights on her ongoing and future collaborations with Prof Pumla and the Centre. Her reflections touched on the challenges of securing adequate funding for the Social Sciences, a concern that resonated with VC. Prof Ramjugernath reaffirmed the importance of ensuring sustained investment in the Social Sciences, noting their critical role in shaping a just, equitable, and innovative society.
Mr Mohamed Shaik speaking about how community engagement enhances the quality and relevance of academic research.
The discussion also reflected on AVReQ’s expanding digital footprint and the research projects currently underway across Africa. The span of these connections aligns closely with Prof Ramjugernath’s vision for a university that builds meaningful continental partnerships and enhances its global visibility. AVReQ’s digital ecosystem continues to grow in reach and depth, reflecting strong engagement and an audience that actively seeks out our research, creative outputs, and learning opportunities across platforms. Although AVReQ is small in scale compared to the broader institution, its contribution to SU’s identity as a research-intensive university is profound. The work demonstrates how research, creativity, and digital innovation can converge to make knowledge accessible, impactful, and globally resonant.
Reflecting on our activities over recent years, including successful postgraduate symposia, international collaborations, and creative-academic projects, AVReQ continues to nurture a dynamic and collaborative research culture. These engagements enhance visibility, foster knowledge exchange, and make meaningful contributions to national and global conversations on justice, memory, and repair.
Yaadein Padiachy shares how being a fellow in the Centre has influenced her approach to research and its development, in comparison to her fellow students in the department.
Prof Patricia Parker (UNC), sharing on the importance of collaborations with AVReQ and funding the Social Sciences.
Prof Ramjugernath’s emphasis on service-oriented leadership and empowerment aligns deeply with AVReQ’s ethos. His vision affirms the kind of academic environment we strive to sustain: one where intellectual curiosity, social engagement, and creativity flourish together. AVReQ looks forward to building on this visit by deepening collaboration with the VC’s office and continuing to contribute to Stellenbosch University’s pursuit of excellence, innovation, and inclusive impact in South Africa, across the continent, and beyond.
The AVReQ Postgraduate fellows got an opportunity to reflect on their research journey as students at the Centre.