University of South Africa Notable Alumni

Notable Alumni of UNISA

• Thabo Mbeki - Graduated in 1966, former President of South Africa, known for his role in the anti-apartheid movement.
• Phumzile Mlambo-Ngcuka - Graduated in 1981, former Deputy President of South Africa and Executive Director of UN Women.
• Christiaan Barnard - Graduated in 1953, pioneering heart surgeon who performed the world's first successful heart transplant.
• Desmond Tutu - Graduated in 1960, Nobel Peace Prize laureate, and prominent anti-apartheid activist.
• Nelson Mandela - Studied law through UNISA, former President of South Africa, and global icon for peace and reconciliation.