Some of PhD graduates posing for a photo after the 2023 Spring graduation ceremony
The University of Venda (UNIVEN) held a Spring Graduation Ceremony that took place on Thursday, 05 October 2023 at the University Auditorium. About Thirty-four (34) PhD UNIVEN graduates crossed the stage of the University’s Auditorium.
UNIVEN Chancellor, Adv Mojanku Gumbi mentioned that UNIVEN is honoured to be associated with Dr Kgalema Motlanthe. Adv Gumbi said these words during the graduation ceremony. She told graduates that they should give the University and their communities the reasons to smile. “Go out and solve the challenges of this country.” She quoted Amanda Gowan – “It is a call to rise and rebuild for the sake of future generations, to leave the country a better place than what was left to us. While times may be dark, there is always light, if only we are brave enough to see it, if only we are brave enough to be it.” Adv Gumbi concluded her congratulatory message by telling graduates to be brave enough to see the light and to be that light.
“Education has long been regarded as the cornerstone of progress and the beacon of hope for a brighter future,” said the Vice-Chancellor and Principal, Prof Bernard Nthambeleni in his welcome remarks. Prof Nthambeleni further said that education is not just for employment prospects only, it (education) should contribute to the overall development of the personality of an individual and comes with a huge responsibility.
“As educated individuals, you have the power to be catalysts for change. Your talents, skills, and experiences should assist in driving innovation and creating solutions that benefit your communities,” said Prof Nthambeleni.
UNIVEN has for the past four decades been a beacon of hope, a place where dreams take flight, a place where futures are shaped. The University stands tall as a testament to the power of education to transform lives and empower individuals to make a positive impact in society.
UNIVEN tops the list amongst the comprehensive universities in South Africa with the highest headcount enrolment numbers in the Sciences, Mathematics, and Health Sciences. UNIVEN continues to provide the best tertiary education and produce quality graduates who can compete with their peers both locally and internationally.
During this 2023 Spring Graduation Ceremony, a total of 516 graduates received their certificates, diplomas, and degrees. Of this total number, 79 graduates received their Honours degrees, 84 graduates received their master’s degrees, and 34 graduates received their doctoral degrees. About 60% of graduates were females while 40% were males.
Prof Nthambeleni concluded his welcome remarks by mentioning that this Spring Graduation Ceremony marked a colossal transition in the University of Venda Executive Management structure as the University is bidding farewell to two of its distinguished leaders, the Deputy Vice-Chancellor, Teaching and Learning, Professor Jan Ernst Crafford and the University Registrar, Adv Edward Nkhangweleni Lambani.
During this UNIVEN’s Spring Graduation Ceremony, Former President of South Africa and former Chancellor of the University of Venda, Hon Kgalema Motlanthe received an honorary doctoral degree in Administration.
L-R: Adv Mojanku Gumbi, Hon Kgalema Motlanthe, Mr Juneas Lekgetha, Prof Bernard Nthambeleni and Mrs Gugu Motlanthe
On the photo: Chancellor Adv Mojanku Gumbi (4th from left in the front row) poses for a photo with Dr Kgalema Motlanthe (5th in the front row), members of Council, Executive Management Committee, and some members of the procession.
Issued by:
Department of Marketing, Branding and Communication
University of Venda
Tel: (015) 962 8525 / 8710
Date: 06 October 2023
