ANC veteran Gwede Mantashe, now 70, embodies South Africa’s educational transformation as he works to complete his doctoral studies while celebrating the ruling party’s role in democratizing higher education.
The former mineworker-turned-politician represents the generation that accessed education opportunities created by ANC policies. “Sixty percent of University of Johannesburg students today are NSFAS beneficiaries – this is the Freedom Charter in action,” Mantashe told journalists, referencing the ANC’s foundational document that promised education for all.
Mantashe’s academic journey mirrors the country’s progress:
• Earned his first degree at age 42
• Currently completing PhD (three chapters submitted)
• Plans to proudly display his doctorate in his rural village
GWEDE MANTASHE
The majority of students in SA universities are black. Even in former white institutions. 60% of students at UJ are NFSAS recipients. Thanks to the ANC.
We are full filing the aspirations of the Freedom Charter.
I obtained my first degree at the age of 42.… pic.twitter.com/fghssk4cVr
— Constitution First 🇿🇦 (@Constitution_94) June 28, 2025
“People will ask, ‘Where is Gwede going?’ as I walk in my red gown,” he chuckled. “I’m doing this for pride – to show what’s possible.”
The Mineral Resources Minister’s story highlights both personal achievement and systemic change. Where apartheid once restricted black access to education, NSFAS now supports over 700,000 students annually at institutions that were previously whites-only.
Political analysts note Mantashe’s narrative serves dual purposes – celebrating ANC achievements while subtly countering criticism of the party’s education record. As South Africa debates the pace of transformation, Mantashe stands as both beneficiary and symbol of post-apartheid educational access.
His determination to complete the PhD at 70 underscores his message: “Never stop learning. I’m highly educated now – don’t take me for granted.” The comment, delivered with characteristic humor, carries deeper resonance about black South Africans reclaiming educational dignity denied under apartheid.
