CAPE TOWN -- A three-year scholarship to research the African National Congress' history and stimulate other similar academic works was unveiled at a ceremony in Parliament yesterday.

Established by British Aerospace in partnership with the ANC archive at Fort Hare University, the scholarship was awarded to Mr Nhlanhla Ndebele, who completed an honours degree in political studies at the University of the Witwatersrand last year. He will research a thesis on The history of the ANC and its role in shaping South African and world history.

British Aerospace chairman Richard Charter said the award should be seen in the context of the company's long-term interest in the country, which went far beyond viewing South Africa as a market for its products.

"This project is a demonstration of our commitment to the creation of a rich and informative modern history for South Africa, and fits alongside other social investments being made by British Aerospace in South Africa."

The ceremony was attended by Education Minister Sibusiso Bengu, Defence Minister Joe Modise and his deputy, Mr Ronnie Kasrils, National Assembly Speaker Dr Frene Ginwala and several ANC MPs.

With acknowledgement to Sapa and Dispatch Online.