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Celebrating a century publishing excellence

- Wits University

Wits Press commemorated 100 years of publishing excellence with the launch of the book 'Publishing from the South: A Century of Wits University Press'.

The vibrant literary hub of Love Books in Melville, Johannesburg, was the generous host and Service Station at the Bamboo Centre, the backdrop to the festive launch of Publishing from the South: A Century of Wits University Press.

The book was conceptualised following the celebrations commemorating 100 years of publishing excellence since 1922, making Wits Press the oldest scholarly press in South Africa.

Edited by renowned scholars Professor Sarah Nuttall, Wits Institute for Social and Economic Research (WiSER), and Professor Isabel Hofmeyr, pioneer of print culture and book histories in South Africa, the book explores the rich history and contributions of Wits University Press from a uniquely Southern perspective.

Publishing from the South: A Century of Wits University Press

Guests at the event were treated to insightful discussions from contributing authors Professor Srila Roy (Wits University Sociology Department), Dr Siphiwo Mahala (University of Johannesburg) and Professor Kopano Ratele (Stellenbosch University), who shared their perspectives on their chapters and the broader themes of the book.

The evening radiated warmth and camaraderie, with the support of authors, booksellers, publishers, Wits colleagues and friends of the Press making it truly special. It was a moment to reflect on the achievements of the past century and look forward to many more years of impactful publishing.

If you missed the launch, you can still get your copy of Publishing from the South: A Century of Wits University Press at Love Books in Johannesburg or from online retailers worldwide.

For more information about the book, visit Wits University Press

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