Rhodes University’s 1965-1975 graduates, now calling themselves the ‘Knocking on Heaven’s Door’ (KOHD) group, will gather for a two-day reunion on campus, which they are dubbing “The Final Countdown.”
The reference to “Knockin’ on Heaven’s Door” is two-fold – written by Bob Dylan in 1973, this song was popular at the time this cohort was at Rhodes University, and it also serves as a tongue-in-cheek nod to their advancing years. “The Final Countdown,” a song released in 1986 by Swedish rock group Europe, was a chart-topping favourite of this generation; the title fittingly marks this event as a likely final reunion.
The decade between 1965 and 1975 at Rhodes University was marked by students questioning the status quo – pushing back against outdated practices like compulsory shirts and ties at dinner, and taking on more profound issues, such as restrictions on Black student admissions. During this decade, student resistance set the stage for activism that would intensify in the late 1970s and 1980s.
Reflecting on their time at Rhodes University, many KOHD alumni recall pushing back against authority – and facing the consequences. Alumnus Terry Sutherland, recalls: “I was nearly expelled a few times during my years at Rhodes University.” An Old Rhodian and long-time supporter of Rhodes University, Sutherland has been involved in the University’s golfing community for over five decades. He organises the annual Old Rhodian Bursary Golf Day to raise funds for student sport bursaries.
Two notable leaders to emerge from this decade are Peter Harris, who played a key role in establishing the Commission for Conciliation, Mediation, and Arbitration (CCMA) in 1995. He served as Rhodes University Student Representative Council (SRC) President in 1968. Not too long after in 1971, Kathleen Satchwell who is currently Judge of the Gauteng Division of the High Court, also served as SRC President. Both Harris and Satchwell are well-known for their lifelong commitment to human rights and justice, which highlights the values of leadership and social justice fostered during their student years at the University.
Many alumni from this cohort have remained dedicated to the positive changes they championed as students, continuing to support the University and its community well beyond graduation and many up to this day. This enduring commitment includes significant financial contributions, the funding of student bursaries, and the establishment of various Rhodes University chapters, such as in the UK, to connect with international alumni and promote the University’s achievements on a global scale.
Another student from this decade, Geoffrey de Jager, was the Chairman of the Rhodes University UK Trust for 30 years, and has since been appointed Honorary Life President of the Trust. His legacy of philanthropy and commitment to education embodies the values that have defined the alumni of this era, leaving an enduring impact on the University and inspiring future generations to give back
This final reunion, perfectly timed as one of the final events on the RU120 anniversary calendar, is more than a celebration; it’s a moment to reflect on shared history, enduring friendships, and the legacy of a generation that dared to make a difference – paving the way for those who came after.
To borrow from The Final Countdown:
“We’re leaving together, but still, it’s farewell;
And maybe, we’ll come back to Earth, who can tell?”
Although it may be goodbye for this remarkable group of alumni, Rhodes University stands stronger today because of their contributions. As they gather one last time, they reaffirm their enduring impact on the institution, showing that the values they championed as students continue to shape the University’s spirit. Their legacy of courage, generosity, and fellowship will undoubtedly inspire future generations to follow in their footsteps.
MOMENTS IN TIME from 1965-1975
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