The Sol Plaatje University in Kimberley has given many young people from the fringes of society a lifeline to access higher education. In many ways, this university is seen as a beacon for students from all over the country. Many of their graduates are the first people in their families to obtain a degree. It is also worth mentioning that the late Justice Yvonne Mokgoro was the inaugural Chair of the Sol Plaatje University Council, a position she held from 2014 to 2021.