With a deep commitment to the continent, Dr. Nkosazana Dlamini Zuma, the Chancellor of the University of Limpopo, engaged with delegates on Day 3 of the 29th Southern African Universities Debate Championship (SAUDC). This prestigious event is currently taking place at the University of Limpopo and showcases an impressive gathering of universities from across the Southern African Development Community (SADC) region.
The 2026 championship, dubbed Kgorong 3.0, has emerged as a vibrant platform for a week of intense intellectual discourse, centering around the overarching theme “Debating Solutions for Africa” and its focused sub-theme “AI and Africa’s Future.” The tournament is designed to delve into crucial policy-driven conversations regarding the governance, adaptation, and implementation of artificial intelligence in addressing uniquely African developmental challenges. Participants are tasked with discussing how to advance ethical, inclusive, and sustainable innovation within this rapidly evolving technological landscape.
During her visit, Dr. Dlamini-Zuma attended the opening session of the day’s debates, setting the tone for an inspiring day ahead. She emphasised the important role that young people must play in shaping the future of the African continent. Her commendation of the championship highlighted its significance as a platform for students from diverse backgrounds across Southern Africa to engage in substantial dialogue, exchange innovative ideas, and collaboratively develop solutions to pressing regional issues.
In her address, Dr. Dlamini-Zuma articulated, “The youth have an important role to play in confronting the challenges facing society, particularly with the emergence of artificial intelligence. The present and the future of our continent depend on having young people who are forward-thinking, innovative, and devoted to crafting effective solutions for Africa’s unique context.”
She encouraged all participants to leverage debate as a transformative tool that can drive change and instill a sense of responsibility among the youth.