The Harvard convocation honoring Nelson R. Mandela, President of the Republic of South Africa, will begin at 4:30 p.m. on Friday, September 18.

President Mandela will deliver an address in the Tercentenary Theatre of Harvard Yard and be presented with an honorary doctoral degree.

"President Mandela is one of the heroic figures of our time," said Harvard President Neil L. Rudenstine. "He embodies not only the example of courage and determination under the harshest conceivable circumstances, but - something even more rare - the very spirit of reconciliation in his own nation, and throughout the world. We will be deeply honored to welcome him to Harvard as we begin our new academic year."

Renowned leader of the decades-long struggle against apartheid, Mandela has served as South Africa's President since May 1994. Longtime leader of the African National Congress, he was co-recipient of the Nobel Peace Prize in 1993.

President Mandela will be joined at Harvard by his wife, Graça Machel, the former First Lady of Mozambique.

Since becoming President, Mandela has been previously invited to Harvard to receive an honorary degree and to deliver the University's principal Commencement Day address, but has been unable to attend because of the demands on his schedule. He last visited the United States in 1994, and last came to Boston in 1990, less than a year after his release from twenty-seven years in prison.

Arrangements for the visit to Harvard are still being finalized. The event will be open to Harvard I.D. holders and to members of the public with tickets. For more information about ticket distribution, please call 496-NEWS.