After 25 remarkable years, Prof Lesley Cowling’s retirement marks the end of an era in journalism education at Wits University—but her legacy will undoubtedly shape its future. As we bid her a heartfelt farewell, it’s impossible not to reflect on the transformative journey she’s led at the Wits Centre for Journalism. But here’s where it gets fascinating: her tenure began at a time when the world was on the brink of a digital revolution, and journalism was a vastly different landscape. And this is the part most people miss: her pioneering work didn’t just adapt to change—it helped define it.
When Prof Cowling joined Wits in the late 1990s, the internet was still a novelty, confined to newsrooms and a few homes. Cellphones were clunky bricks, and journalism was dominated by media giants like the Independent Group, Times Media, and the SABC. Yet, amidst this shifting terrain, she and her colleagues—Anton Harber, Joanne Richards, and Franz Krüger—were tasked with building a journalism program from scratch. Under the mentorship of Professor Carolyn Hamilton, they ventured into uncharted academic territory, asking: What role could a university-based journalism degree play in South Africa’s evolving media landscape?
One bold decision set the tone for everything that followed: the program would be postgraduate, designed for working journalists rather than fresh graduates. This choice, though unconventional at the time, created a dynamic learning environment where seasoned professionals brought real-world experience into the classroom. But here’s the controversial part: some argued this approach might exclude younger voices. Yet, Prof Cowling’s reflection reveals the opposite—it fostered rich debates, laughter, and a mutual learning experience that enriched both educators and students. Journalists, after all, thrive on wit and humor, and her classes were no exception.
Another game-changing move was the introduction of Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) in the mid-career honors program. In the 2000s, many journalists had been denied formal education due to apartheid policies. RPL opened doors for them, allowing professionals trained on the job or in technical colleges to earn a university degree. Over 25 years, this initiative empowered countless journalists to pursue masters and even PhDs, showcasing resilience and dedication. Here’s a thought-provoking question: In a world where formal credentials often dictate opportunities, should RPL models become the norm rather than the exception?
Prof Cowling’s impact extended beyond South Africa’s borders. Donor funding brought journalists from across Africa—Cameroon, Nigeria, Kenya, and beyond—into the Wits program. This diverse cohort not only enriched the classroom with global perspectives but also created a collegial network that endures today. Zimbabweans, in particular, became a constant presence, year after year. And this is where it gets emotional: looking back, Prof Cowling describes her tenure as a ‘golden era’ of contemplation, creativity, and growth. Yet, she’s confident the Centre will continue to thrive, even as it faces the twin challenges of a digitized world and a struggling media sector.
As we celebrate her retirement, the Wits Centre for Journalism extends its deepest gratitude for her dedication and excellence. Her work hasn’t just shaped journalists—it’s shaped the way we think about journalism itself. But here’s the question we leave you with: In an era of rapid change, how can institutions like Wits continue to innovate while preserving the core values of journalism? Share your thoughts in the comments—let’s keep the conversation going.
