On Tuesday, 24 November 2020, the University of Venda (UNIVEN) held its Retirees Farewell Function to thank staff members who have diligently worked for the University for many years. This farewell function took place in the Senate Chambers.
In his Farewell message, the Vice-Chancellor and Principal, Dr Bernard Nthambeleni thanked retirees and told them that the University has benefited immensely from their loyalty and excellent performance over many years of their association with UNIVEN. “The history of this University cannot be written without mentioning your great contributions. Our University today is counted amongst the best managed institutions in the country because of your hard work and dedication.” Dr Nthambeleni continued to tell them that UNIVEN’s performance as far as teaching, learning, community engagement and research has also increased tremendously over the past years.
“Our University infrastructure-built project has also increased over the past years. You have witnessed UNIVEN growing overtime and stood firm during the best and worst times. It is through your hard work and dedication that this University was able to achieve its goals of contributing to skilled workforce to our country. You are leaving UNIVEN at a very crucial time when the University is about to implement its new Strategic Plan, 2021-2025 which is intended to position the University of Venda for impact and relevance. “
He concluded his farewell message by mentioning that despite the challenges posed by COVID-19, this year (2020) has been yet another successful year for UNIVEN.
When acknowledging retirees, Director of Human Resources, Mrs. Uanda Ndou said that the number of years that these retirees worked for UNIVEN indicates that these retirees have served the University with diligence and dedication. She appreciated the role that the retirees continued to play in mentoring young staff members.
Mrs. Violet Chauke
Representing Service Staff members was Mrs. Violet Chauke who said that UNIVEN has played a very big role in her personal development. She urged other staff members to continue taking care of the University’s assets and infrastructure for sustainability and for future generations.
Mr. Steven Manenzhe who represented Admin Staff thanked previous and current UNIVEN management for effective leadership and management to ensure that there is sustainability and growth over the previous years.
Rev JDM Van Der Westhuizen
Representing Academic Staff members was Rev JDM Van Der Westhuizen who said when he started working for UNIVEN, there were only seven lecturers and he has witnessed UNIVEN’s growth over the past 38 years. Rev Van Der Westhuizen joined UNIVEN in 1983.
Prof Jan Crafford
In his vote of thanks message, Prof Jan Crafford expressed gratitude to all retirees for their contribution in making sure that UNIVEN grows to what it is today.
Below is a list of 2020 UNIVEN retirees:
Prof PK Chauke, Prof PB Bikam, Dr. JLM Dederen, Mr. NW Masiagwala, Dr LV Mathye, Dr NJ Ramakuela, Mrs. ML Sinthumule, Mr. NA Tshifhango, Mr. R Van der Westhuizen, Mr. A J Mutenda, Ms. MN Masia, Mr. AS Manenzhe, Ms LG Masindi, Ms RP Mudzanani, Ms TC Mutele, Ms LG Tshipetane, Mr. MC Dau, Ms VL Chauke, Ms MG Themeli, Mr. NA Dzhivhuwo and Prof.RR Molapo.
Issued by:
Department of Communications & Marketing
University of Venda
Tel: (015) 962 8525
Date: 07 December 2020
