Stellenbosch University
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Stellenbosch University and Michigan State University foster ‘ubuntu’
Author: Viwe Benxa
Published: 24/05/2021

​Amongst the many phenomenal events witnessed in 2019 – the Michigan Spartans basketball team's win against both Ohio State and Wisconsin in the Big Ten Season Championship – was also the initiation of an exciting relationship between Michigan State University and Stellenbosch University. 

Hoping to foster international co-operation, the partnership established 'Ubuntu Dialogues' that would promote community engagement, establish research initiatives, and fundamentally broaden knowledge about the value of ubuntu. 

It aims to create transformative educational spaces and essentially shape a dynamic society. A quick Google search will show that ubuntu means “humanity", but that is just one translation of the word. Ubuntu is more than just a word – it is a way of living for others; it is a conversation starter; it is about fostering community building and connection. 

During the 2020-2021 basketball season the Michigan State University team spearheaded conversations around ubuntu. The concept of sportsmanship was intertwined with the values that society should adopt by showcasing ubuntu-inspired sports jerseys during their games. This initiative sparked thought-provoking conversation about the ethos and value of ubuntu. 

The introduction of 'Ubuntu Dialogues', especially on sports merchandise, has assisted in the creation of spaces to engage on the value of ubuntu. This has been a wonderful initiative by both universities, to create an international platform of engagement. 

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