Alumni honour Dr TT Cholo’s legacy while raising funds for TUT students

A forthcoming book celebrating the life and legacy of liberation struggle veteran and Tshwane University of Technology (TUT) honorary doctorate recipient Dr Tlou Theophilus Cholo will preserve an important chapter of South Africa’s history while helping students facing financial and other hardships.

Born on 20 October 1925, Dr Cholo celebrated his 101st birthday this week, marking more than a century of a life rooted in service to humanity. His book, Dr TT Cholo: A Centennial Celebration of a Hero Who Almost Remained Unseen, co-authored by TUT journalism alumni Shalate Davhana and Malesela Maubane, brings together stories they previously published in mainstream media about Dr Cholo’s life, his contribution to the liberation struggle and his reflections on issues affecting society.

The publication explores his perspectives on unemployment, education, workers’ rights, corruption and broader socioeconomic and environmental challenges, offering readers insight into the experiences and views of a man whose contribution the authors believe deserves greater recognition.

For Davhana, the book goes beyond preserving history. It also seeks to promote the spirit of Ubuntu, collective responsibility and giving back. Proceeds from book sales will go towards the TUT Alumni Fund, which supports students facing financial and other hardships.

Through the publication, the authors hope to encourage readers to invest in young people and help create opportunities for future generations. A QR code included in the book directs readers to the donation site, where they can contribute to the fund. “We bring our work together in one publication to ensure that Dr Cholo’s contribution remains accessible to future generations,” said Davhana.

Maubane’s contribution included researching relevant material and retracing Dr Cholo’s journey to Mmakala Village in Limpopo and Lennes Primary School. “This research highlights important parts of Cholo’s life while reinforcing the importance of preserving community history and passing its lessons on to future generations,” he said.

At his home in Soshanguve, Dr Cholo reflected on the secret to his longevity, attributing his remarkable 101 years to making good decisions. The occasion became even more memorable when he held the master copy of the book for the first time and proudly autographed it ahead of its official launch.

Through the publication, Davhana and Maubane have connected the preservation of South Africa’s liberation history with a commitment to supporting the next generation. Dr Cholo’s legacy is therefore not only preserved through the story of his contribution to the country but also channelled towards creating opportunities for students and encouraging a culture of giving among alumni and broader society.

TUT awarded Dr Cholo an honorary doctorate in Humanities in October 2018 in recognition of his lifelong dedication to social justice and South Africa’s liberation.