The Executive Management and Senior Management Committees (EMC and SMC) as well as the University at large will miss the University Registrar, Adv Edward Lambani immensely as he is stepping down from the role that he served diligently. The SMC bid him goodbye with mixed emotions for his enormous contribution to the University of Venda (UNIVEN).
Adv Lambani’s journey with UNIVEN started when he enrolled for a Law degree which he completed in April 1988. He was later elected as the President of the University of Venda Convocation and subsequently served as a member of the Council from 1997 to 2003. His professional career with the University started on 01 January 2014 when he was appointed as the Director: Legal Services.
At an event that took place at Zebula Golf Estate, outside Bela-Bela on Thursday, 21 September 2023, all the Speakers described Adv Lambani as a man with an extraordinary sense of humour and that he will always remain a significant part of the University. Adv Lambani has been requested to stay on for a little while.
“Adv Lambani has been a pillar of strength and played an instrumental role in UNIVEN’s journey of growth and excellence. His unwavering dedication, methodical and meticulous attention to detail, and commitment to academic integrity have left an indelible mark on our university”, Vice-Chancellor and Principal, Prof Bernard Nthambeleni said.
Prof Nthambeleni commended Adv Lambani for providing strategic leadership by ensuring compliance with the Higher Education Act, University Statute, Policies, and various rules and regulations governing the University of Venda.
The Vice- Chancellor and Principal mentioned that Adv Lambani is responsible and participates in university-wide activities including Corporate Governance, Academic Administration, Committee Administration, Student Affairs, Records and Archives, Graduation Ceremonies, Sport and Recreation, and Campus Health.
Well-wishes came from different structures and divisions.
The Deputy Registrar, Mr Mpfariseni Ligudu representing the Registrar’s Division said, “He is a valued member of our team and has made a lasting impact on all of us within the Registrar’s Division with his hard work, dedication, and unwavering commitment to excellence”.
On behalf of all the directors, Dr Mutshinyalo Ratombo said “Your remarkable journey of your career in the sector has left an indelible mark on us as directors. Your visionary leadership, unwavering commitment to ethical leadership practices, and belief in the power of unity to drive the university forward have inspired countless individuals, students, and directors both within and outside the University.”
The Executive Deans were represented by Prof Tshilidzi Mulaudzi, Acting Executive Dean of the Faculty of Health Sciences who described Adv Lambani as a man of many talents and who is never too busy for anyone. She indicated that Adv Lambani needs to reflect on all that God did for Moses and that as Executive Deans they believe that as God was with Moses, He will also be with Adv Lambani and his family.
The Deputy Vice-Chancellor Corporate Services, Dr Robert Martin on behalf of the Executive Management confirmed the messages from other representatives that indeed Adv Lambani was an amazing person who has his way of dancing with words and a sense of humour.
In his response, Adv Lambani indicated that it is difficult to say goodbye to the people whom you have worked with for close to a decade, and it is also difficult to respond when you are parting ways with the people who loved you so much. He went on to say he feels encouraged to start a new journey, hence difficult to face the world without his colleagues. He thanked the EMC and SMC for recognising him while he was still alive.
The Deputy Vice-Chancellor Research and Postgraduate Studies, Prof Nosisi Feza appreciated Adv Lambani for his unwavering dedication and commitment to the University community. “Your guidance and support have made a lasting impact on us all”.
“It has been such an honour to be part of this wonderful event”, said the Director Supply Chain Management and Expenditure, Mrs Beauty Mutheiwana while extending heartfelt gratitude to the esteemed audience.
