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Our Story
Founded in 1983 by visionary leaders Meluxolo Silinga, Bambo Qongqo, and Prof. Lungisile Ntsebeza, the Cala University Students Association (CALUSA) was born out of the urgent need to find a just and equitable political system to replace Apartheid. Rooted in the small, yet resilient, community of Cala in the Eastern Cape, CALUSA has always responded to the evolving challenges faced by our society.
In recent years, CALUSA has expanded its focus to include agroecology, popular education, and local governance, always with the goal of creating a self-sufficient and resilient community. Our initiatives, such as the Youth Commune, embody our principles of community building, egalitarianism, and self-reliance. These projects not only equip our youth with practical skills but also instill in them the values necessary for leading and uplifting their communities.
We continue to honor the legacy of those who have fought for justice, like Batandwa Ndondo, a young activist and community worker whose life was tragically cut short but whose spirit lives on in our work. CALUSA remains dedicated to building a better future, where education, equality, and empowerment are accessible to all.
Join us as we carry forward the torch of liberation, lighting the way for future generations.
Mission
From its inception, CALUSA has been dedicated to the principles of liberation through education, believing that knowledge is the cornerstone of true freedom. Our mission is to continue this legacy by empowering communities with the tools and education needed to challenge injustices and build a more equitable society.
Grounded in our origins as a movement for change, we remain committed to nurturing young leaders and fostering sustainable community development. By focusing on initiatives such as popular education, agroecology, and youth empowerment, we aim to carry forward the vision of our founders—creating a future where every individual has the opportunity to thrive and contribute to the collective well-being of their community. CALUSA's mission is not just to remember our past but to actively shape a better tomorrow.
