UNISA SCHOOL OF SOCIAL SCIENCES CONFERENCE, UNISA MAIN CAMPUS, MUCKLENEUK, 2-3 SEPTEMBER 2015

Abstract

It was an absolute pleasure and a privilege to have attended and presented at the first School of Social Sciences Conference at Unisa. The event themed Alternative visions of society: negotiating the future impact of the social sciences was an exhilarating two-day affair graced with the likes of Professors Steven Friedman and Leila Patel as keynote speakers. With hi-tech and world class infrastructure provided at Kgorong building, the atmosphere was tranquil and at its best ensuring the smooth running of the conference and that the delegates receive their money's worth.Catering was also top-notch as per usual. Reflecting back after spending extensive hours of architectural hard work as part of the conference administrative team, I was delighted to finally experience the unfolding of conference right before my eyes. I was there! I was there when conference delegates were welcomed by Professor Rosemary Moeketsi, the Executive Dean of the College of Human Sciences who also graciously opened the ceremony. I was there when Professor Steven Friedman delivered his keynote address. Through his expressive character, he gave a moving and an informative lecture on the political history of South Africa by focussing on the socioeconomic, cultural and political path dependencies of Mzansi. Immediately following the keynote address, coffee and tea was served and this kicked-off the four parallel sessions that took place on the day.