2026 Tutu Jonker Memorial Lecture

Dear Students, Colleagues and Valued Stakeholders,

The Faculty of Theology and Religion at the University of the Free State warmly invites you to attend the Tutu Jonker Memorial Lecture, an evening of critical theological reflection and public engagement.

This year's lecture explores the timely theme:

Theology in the Age of Digital Power: Surveillance, Public Life and the Search for a Common World

The lecture will be presented by two internationally recognised scholars:

Prof. Dr. Hanna Reichel
Princeton Theological Seminary, USA

Prof. Dr. Frederike van Oorschot
University of Zurich, Switzerland

Event Details

Date: Tuesday, 18 August 2026
Time: 18:00
Venue: Albert Wessels Auditorium, University of the Free State

As digital technologies increasingly shape how societies communicate, govern and relate to one another, this memorial lecture offers an opportunity to reflect on the role of theology in addressing questions of ethics, justice, public life and the common good.

Students, academics, faith leaders, researchers, alumni and members of the broader community are encouraged to attend and engage in this important conversation.

We look forward to welcoming you.

Faculty of Theology and Religion
University of the Free State

For enquiries:
Cheralle Sinra: SinraC@ufs.ac.za
Prof. Henco van der Westhuizen: VanDerWesthuizenHC@ufs.ac.za

For more information about the Faculty of Theology and Religion, visit the faculty website.