Simon Gent (pictured) first visited South Africa in 1997 on an academic sabbatical and he has researched the history of the rainbow nation throughout his teaching career.

In this talk, he seeks to explain the realities of 20th-century apartheid and its legacy since Nelson Mandela became president in 1994.

Alan Paton wrote his famous novel in 1948 and the phrase ‘the beloved country’ appears in the text expressing both sorrow and deep love for South Africa, a country torn apart by racism, inequality and social disintegration.

Simon is a member of the College’s History Department..

This event is one of our occasional afternoon talks where we welcome you to join us not only for a stimulating lecture but also for tea and cake.

Jennifer Winn Auditorium, Birley Centre BN21 4EF
Wednesday 12 Nov 2025
3:45 PM – 5:15 PM

There is no charge for the pupils and adults from the Coastal Schools Partnership scheme. Please contact es@eastbourne-college.co.uk by 17 October to register your attendance giving your name and any other names in your group, saying whether they are pupils or adults.

https://eastbourniansociety.org/events/view/safrica