Morabo Morojele and Jarred Thompson won the University of Johannesburg Prizes for South African Writing in English 2024 on Thursday, September 19, 2024.
The University of Johannesburg Prize for South African Writing in English, also known as the UJ Prize, was instituted in 2006. It comprises a main prize and a debut prize, given annually for “the best original creative work in English published in the previous calendar year” not linked to a specific genre. They are judged by a panel of four members of the Department of English at the University of Johannesburg, two academics from other universities, and one media or publishing industry member. Some of the previous winners have been Nthikeng Mohlele and Mohale Mashigo; Gabeba Baderoon and Mphuthumi Ntabeni; Jacob Dlamini, Jamil F Khan and Rešoketšwe Manenzhe; and Mandla Langa, A’Eysha Kassiem and Lisa-Anne Julien.
The jury for 2024 consisted of Prof Ronit Frenkel (Chair) (University of Johannesburg), Prof Sikhumbuzo Mngadi (University of Johannesburg), Prof Marzia Milazzo (University of Johannesburg), Dr Rebecca Fasselt (University of Pretoria), Dr Thabo Tsehloane (University of Johannesburg), Prof Grace Musila (University of the Witwatersrand), and Prof Nedine Moonsamy (University of Johannesburg). They announced the shortlist on Friday, August 30, before the winners were made public yesterday. The winners’ and the judges’ comments follow.
Main Prize
- Three Egg Dilemma (novel), Morabo Morojele (Cash Prize: R70,000)
Dr Thabo Tšehloane, one of the judging panel members, said about the winning title, “Morabo Morojele’s Three Egg Dilemma is a witty, thought-provoking novel that blends humour with social critique. The novel masterfully navigates the complex dilemmas of modern life, grappling with tensions between tradition and identity. Morojele skillfully captures the clash between personal aspirations and societal expectations, using wit and keen observation to explore the complexities of living in a rapidly changing world. Three Egg Dilemma highlights the universal struggle of forging an identity in a world that is constantly shifting. Morojele’s humour and insight make the novel both accessible and profound, offering a meaningful exploration of the challenges facing contemporary African society. With its vibrant characters and satirical tone, Three Egg Dilemma offers readers a fresh and engaging perspective on contemporary African life.”
Morabo Morojele said, “I’ve just won the UJ Prize for Fiction for this little baby.”
Debut Prize
- The Institute for Creative Dying (novel), Jarred Thompson (Cash Prize: R35,000)
Prof. Ronit Frenkel, Head of the English Department and Chair of the judging panel described Jarred Thompson’s The Institute for Creative Dying as an “extraordinarily original and beautifully crafted novel that heralds the emergence of a new literary star in South Africa.” Asked to comment about what makes the novel outstanding, Frenkel said, “The novel centers on five people as they navigate the idea of how to ‘die delightfully’ while exploring the limits of how they have lived. Thompson investigates big metaphysical questions, along with what he calls the ‘crisis of the ordinary,’ through these vastly different characters. The book is interspersed with moments of joy, beauty and insight while the characters seek meaning in a difficult world. Issues around mortality and the interconnectedness of everything frame the narrative in profound ways that force the reader to ponder the very same questions when the ending is already known – that, inevitably, we will all die.”
Jarred Thompson said in his win, “Every book is raised on faith and flesh. Not just of one person but countless. I am beyond words. Here’s to the many debut writers who continue through doubt toward the finish line. Let the craft speak. That’s all. Thank you UJ!”
The prizes will be presented at the University of Johannesburg ceremony on October 10, 2024.
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