Van Graan wins a million

Honorary Professor Mike van Graan has been awarded a R1 million prize by the Edita and Ira Morris Hiroshima Foundation for Peace and Culture.

The foundation presents awards to exceptional individuals who contribute, from a cultural arena, to cultivating dialogue, understanding and peace in conflict areas.

The leading playwright was selected for his contribution to the anti-apartheid struggle and for his efforts in nurturing a post-apartheid society.

The board stressed Van Graan’s impressive literary work, his vital role in influencing and monitoring post-apartheid cultural policies; and his policy, advocacy and capacity-building work in the field of culture and its contribution to development, human rights and peace in the continent.

The prize rewards not only past contributions but, first and foremost, encourages and supports continued efforts.