The University of Venda (UNIVEN) held a Prayer Day on Wednesday, 02 October 2024, bringing together students, staff, religious leaders, and community members to reflect, worship, and seek divine intervention for the university community, particularly in response to ongoing challenges such as grief, depression, violence, and suicide. This event was part of a broader multi-faceted approach, which includes both spiritual and psychological support, to address the mental health and well-being of students.
The gathering took place at the University Stadium and featured speeches from university leaders, religious figures, and other stakeholders. The Vice-Chancellor and Principal, Professor Bernard Nthambeleni, highlighted the importance of prayer and spirituality in the university’s mission to support students and promote their success. He emphasised the university’s commitment to en-hancing student well-being and addressing both academic and non-academic barriers. He also spoke about societal issues such as inequality, gender-based violence, and mental health, under-lining the university’s role in promoting unity, equality, and support for students in difficult times.
The MEC for Social Development, Ms Florence Radzilani, offered encouragement to students as they were preparing for exams and highlighted the importance of combining hard work with faith. She also spoke about societal challenges impacting youth, including gender-based violence and substance abuse.
In addition, psychological and therapeutic interventions were discussed. Dr Morongwa Takalani, a Clinical Psychologist, emphasised the significance of mental health and encouraged students to seek help for mental health struggles before these challenges could impact their academic perfor-mance.
The day included performances by gospel artists, such as Minister Lufuno Dagada and Rofhiwa Manyage, offering spiritual and emotional upliftment. Faith leaders like Dr Godfrey Thivhafuni and Dr Nkhangweleni Nemukula also addressed topics such as grief, mental health, and how faith com-munities can support victims of abuse and oppression. Dr Nemukula encouraged faith leaders to create safe spaces for survivors and promote healing, justice, and care.
The event concluded with a powerful prayer for healing and divine intervention led by Apostle Dr William Madzinge, who reminded attendees of God’s mercy and readiness to help, even in times of difficulty. This collective day of worship and reflection sought to strengthen the spiritual and emo-tional resilience of the UNIVEN community.
Overall, the Prayer Day at UNIVEN exemplified a united effort to address the university’s challenges through spiritual and emotional support, fostering a sense of hope, healing, and guidance for both students and staff.
UNIVEN SRC President, John Ndaka appreciating the collaboration of students, university management, pastors and the surrounding communities in prayer
Issued by:
Department of Marketing, Branding & Communication.
University of Venda
Tel: 082 868 2218 / 082 868 1811
