Former SABC IsiXhosa news anchor, Noxolo Grootboom will receive an honorary doctorate from Rhodes University in a virtual graduation ceremony next week.
The 61-year-old, who read her last TV news bulletin in March this year, is being recognised for her significant promotion of vernacular languages and culture.
She joined the public broadcaster in 1983 as a typist and worked her way up to become an Editor.
Famous for her trademark sign-off “Ndinithanda nonke emakhaya” (I love you all at home), Grootboom says she’s speechless.
“For 37 years, my work entailed using words all the time. The words have been my tool to communicate with many South Africans on almost a daily basis to describe situations, news events, the passing of our political stalwarts and so on. I’m totally speechless. I sincerely have no words. I’m still in disbelief. Nevertheless, so grateful for this incredible honour. Ndiyabulela Rhodes University.”
Grootboom on her Rhodes University honorary doctorate:
‘Outstanding journalist’
In March, President Cyril Ramaphosa paid tribute to the legendary news anchor during his address to the nation on the COVID-19 Easter weekend restrictions.
The Presidency postponed the address by half an hour to allow South Africans to watch Grootboom.
Ramaphosa said the news anchor was outstanding in her service to the nation.
“I wish to pay tribute to Miss Grootboom as an outstanding journalist who throughout her 37 years of distinguished service bought historic events in our country and across the world into the living rooms of our nation. We wish Miss Grootboom well and thank her for her many years’ service,” he added.
Grootboom reads her last bulletin:
