Adams College in Amanzimtoti recently celebrated its 170th anniversary.
The KwaZulu-Natal provincial government marked this milestone by describing the school as a “beacon of hope during the challenging years of apartheid” that emerged as a “symbol of academic excellence”.
The school was founded in 1853 by the Reverend David Rood, missionary of the American Board of Commissioners for Foreign Missions.
One of the first pupils at the school was John Langalibalele Dube, a founder member of the African National Congress.
KZN MEC for Education Mbali Frazer said Adams College was more than just a place of learning.
“It is a cornerstone of our national heritage. Its reputation extends beyond KwaZulu-Natal, resonating across South Africa, admired for shaping not only minds but destinies. Several iconic figures of the African National Congress have studied at Adams College, leaving a lasting legacy that inspires future leaders to greatness,” said Ms Frazer.
She said the local government took pride in Adams College’s remarkable journey.
“ In the realm of education, Adams College shines as one of the province’s top performers, particularly in mathematics and science. The dedication of educators and supporters has nurtured young minds, despite the challenges faced, propelling the institution to academic excellence. The collective dedication to empower the African child is inspiring. Former students and stakeholders play a vital role in Adams College’s success, transforming it into not just a school but a thriving community committed to holistic learner development,” said Ms Frazer.
She said the local government and its stakeholders pledged to continue to revitalise the institution and uphold its position as a hub of academic excellence.
As a school of many firsts, in 1888, Dr John Mavuma Nembula, a student from Adams, returned to the College from America. He had been sent to America to help with translating a Zulu Bible but he had stayed there and he had become a physician. He was the first black South African to do this and for a while taught physiology at the college.
In 1924, Z.K. Matthews was appointed to be the first black head of Adams College – here he taught with activist Albert Luthuli who was already working there as a teacher. Both of them were active in politics and Mr Matthews was later to be the Botswana Ambassador to the United Nations and Mr Luthuli was to win the Nobel Peace Prize.
Between 1933 and 1945, Edgar Brookes was the Principal of Adams College. He worked closely with John Dube of Ohlange High School to achieve common objectives of improving the lot of native Africans. The school became one of the most important schools for black education.
Some of the notable alumnis include the late Mangosuthu Buthelezi (IFP founder), Nkosazana Dlamini-Zuma (ANC Cabinet minister), Pixley ka Isaka Seme (ANC founder), Seretse Khama (former president of Botswana), Ellen Khuzwayo (former president of the ANC Youth League), Pius Langa (former chief justice), Anton Lembede (first president of the ANC Youth League), Epainette Mbeki (mother of former president Thabo Mbeki), Milton Obote (former president of Uganda), and Stella Sigcau (former South African Cabinet minister).
