Ruth First

Ruth First's achievements are measured in the profound impact of her scholarship and activism rather than trophies or certificates. Her work exposed the brutal realities of apartheid and provided critical analysis of the socio-economic structures that upheld it. The establishment of the Ruth First Wing at Durham University in 2026 stands as a testament to her enduring influence on sociology and political science. Her books, particularly 117 Days, remain essential reading for understanding the mechanisms of state repression. The Ruth First Scholarship at Rhodes University ensures that new generations of scholars continue her work in human rights and development.