Unveiling the plaque for the Telkom Higway Africa Building, Rhodes University, Grahamstown

L-R Dr. Mabizela, Rhodes University, Mr Yeye, SABC Eastern Cape & Mrs Kali Telkom

The official opening of the Telkom Highway Africa Building was officiated by Dr. Sizwe Mabizela,  Dr Sizwe Mabizela, the Deputy Vice Chancellor of Academic and Student Affairs Rhodes University and Mrs Brenda Kali, Telkom Group Executive: Group Communicaqtion and Brand.  Mabizela thanked Telkom for the long standing relationship it has formed with Rhodes University stating that the relationship between Corporate and Academia was vital for sustainable growth and development in Africa.  Kali, graciously accepted the gratitude however spoke emphatically about the role journalism plays in telling the stories of Africa.  Kali emphasised Telkom’s support for journalism and their committment thus far has made them proud to be associated with the high standard of Journalism produced in the industry of media.

Mr. Zola Yeye, Regional Manager, SABC Eastern Cape who was master of ceremonies for the days proceedings further  acknowledged SABC’s pride in the association with Highway Africa.  SABC will be covering the New Media Awards ceremony at the annual SABC Telkom Highway Africa Conference which will be held this year from the 17-19 September 2011, at the Cape Town International Conference Centre (ICC).

Telkom’s association with Rhodes University extends also to the Rhodes Univesity Computer Science Division.  Dr. Peter Clayton Deputy Vice-Chancellor: Research and Development was also present at the official opening acknowledged to witness the ceremony alongside the academics of the Rhodes Univeristy School of Journalism and staff and students of the university. Director of Highway AFrica Chris Kabwato, Director of Highway Africa proudly looked on and acknowledged and applauded the opening with Professor Jane Duncan  Highway Africa Chair of Media and Information Society.

While it was a clear yet wind swept day, it can be said the ceremony was a total success enjoyed by all present.