Former Actonville resident rises to national prominence

Former Actonville resident and former educator at Liverpool Secondary School and William Hills Secondary School, Dr Rajendran Govender, has ascended to a national role as a commissioner for the Promotion of the Rights of Cultural, Religious, and Linguistic Communities (CRL Rights Commission).

Appointed by President Cyril Ramaphosa, Govender was sworn into his new role by Honorable Judge Thifhelimbilu Phanuel Mudau on February 4.

“When I was notified, I was elated. This role is a reinforcement of all the work that I’ve done previously, but now it’s in a formal and recognised way,” he said.

The CRL Rights Commission is a Chapter Nine institution established under the South African Constitution to promote and protect the rights of cultural, religious, and linguistic communities.

The commission’s work includes fostering harmonious relations among diverse communities, addressing cultural and religious intolerance, and promoting the recognition of indigenous and traditional practices.

As a commissioner, Govender said he will play a critical role in advancing the commission’s mandate, including mediating disputes that arise within cultural or religious groups, advocating for the preservation of indigenous knowledge systems, and conducting public awareness campaigns to promote understanding and tolerance among South Africa’s diverse communities.

“I am particularly passionate about engaging with youth through innovative technologies to ensure the preservation of cultural practices in the digital age. He also aims to work with educational institutions to integrate cultural, religious, and linguistic rights into curricula, fostering a deeper appreciation of South Africa’s rich heritage.”

Govender said his early years in Actonville were shaped by its vibrant, diverse community as he attended Actonville Primary and William Hills Secondary, where he cultivated a strong work ethic and a passion for education.

“After qualifying as a teacher, I returned to my hometown to teach Geography at Liverpool Secondary and William Hills Secondary, where I was known for my ability to inspire learners to strive for excellence. Many of my students have since achieved remarkable success, carrying forward the values I instilled in them.”

Beyond the classroom, Govender’s involvement in community activities laid the foundation for his lifelong commitment to service. He worked tirelessly to uplift his community, fostering a spirit of unity and resilience that still resonates with many who knew him during his time in Actonville.

Reflecting on his journey, Govender said, “Actonville was where my foundation was built, a place that taught me the value of community, diversity, and resilience. It’s an honour to carry those lessons into this new role, where I can serve not just my roots but the entire nation.”

Govender previously served as the director of Arts and Culture in the KwaZulu-Natal Department of Arts and Culture, where he spearheaded initiatives to promote cultural diversity and heritage.

He later became a social cohesion advocate in the National Department of Arts and Culture, where he championed the importance of unity in diversity, promoting programmes to bridge cultural divides across South Africa.

He holds a PhD in Social Anthropology and has been awarded prestigious fellowships, including the Ford Fellowship for Postdoctoral Research at Columbia University, New York, and the India, Brazil, South Africa (IBSA) Fellowship for research in India on traditional knowledge systems, focusing on traditional medicinal practices.

His work on the rituals and practices of South Africa’s Indian and Zulu communities has made a significant impact, earning him invitations to present papers at conferences worldwide.

In addition to his professional and academic achievements, Govender serves as CEO of Tamil Business Warriors, a business networking organisation established by Benoni businessman Karthi Moothsamy.

“This platform has been pivotal in fostering collaboration among entrepreneurs and empowering business leaders,” he said.

He has served in respected international organisations, including the Journalists and Writers Foundation (New York), Advocacy Unified Network (The Hague), and Africa Kingdom Diaspora Alliance.

His efforts have earned him numerous national and international awards, recognising his tireless commitment to social justice and community empowerment.

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