Photo credit: Iviwe Tom (CPUT)

The Cape Peninsula University of Technology (CPUT) marked ‘World Book and Copyright Day’ with a meaningful celebration at its Bellville campus library, highlighted by a major book donation from the Human Sciences Research Council (HSRC).

Observed globally on 23 April and established by UNESCO, the day promotes reading, publishing, and access to knowledge. In South Africa, it also serves as an important reminder of the need to strengthen a reading culture, improve access to educational resources and transform our society through knowledge promotion.

A milestone moment for access to knowledge

A key highlight of the event was the handover of nearly 3000 books from HSRC Press to CPUT. This contribution supports students and academics by providing access to critical research and African scholarship. HSRC Press representative Shouneez Khan emphasised that the donation ”reflects a commitment to making knowledge more accessible across university campuses, ensuring that research reaches those who need it most.” The impact of this donation will be felt by the current and upcoming generations of students who will pass through the institution.

Strengthening partnerships for impact

Beyond the donation, the event marked an important step in deepening collaboration between CPUT and the HSRC. Representing the HSRC’s Strategic Partnerships and External Capacity Development unit, Samantha Coert highlighted that “this moment signals the beginning of a renewed and strengthened institutional partnership.”

Discussions to renew the Memorandum of Understanding between the two institutions are already at an advanced stage. The partnership is expected to unlock opportunities in:

• Student internships and mentorship
• Postgraduate supervision
• Joint research and training initiatives
• Knowledge sharing and capacity development

Shared vision for learning and transformation

CPUT’s Dean of Student Affairs, Nonkosi Tyolwana, welcomed the donation, noting the enduring partnership between the institutions. She reflected on the power of books to connect people, foster empathy, and broaden perspectives.

Library representatives echoed this sentiment, highlighting the essential role of books in enabling learning, discovery, and equitable access to information. Student leadership also welcomed the initiative, describing it as an investment in the intellectual growth and future of CPUT students.

A broader call to read

The celebration aligns with national efforts led by the Department of Basic Education and partners such as the National Library of South Africa and Book Dash, encouraging all South Africans to embrace reading as a daily habit.

Looking ahead

While the book donation marks a significant milestone, both CPUT and the HSRC emphasised that it is only the beginning. The partnership aims to expand research capacity, strengthen academic collaboration, and drive meaningful social impact across South Africa and the African continent.

This World Book Day, the message was clear: books are more than resources—they are catalysts for knowledge, empowerment, and transformation.