The Chairman of National Lotteries Commission, Professor Alfred Nevhutanda gave a keynote address during the re-launch of Gauteng Alumni Chapter held on Saturday, 26 August 2017 in a packed Mandela Conference hall at Burgers Park Hotel, Pretoria. Making references to leadership in various sectors of society and his own experiences, Prof Nevhutanda urged alumni to exercise carpe viam as part of seizing opportunities to lead societal and alumni structures to make the future look better.
‘’We need true leaders who are resilient enough to turn unthinkable problems into unthinkable solutions. As the University of Venda alumni, you need not be afraid to lead, taking your rightful position in the education spectrum. Somewhere along the way, if you choose the right path, if you make the right choice, you will learn to lead’’
He concluded by praising Univen for having produced distinguished and talented graduates who are real experts in their respective fields.
In his remarks on behalf of the institutional Executive Management, the newly appointed Deputy Vice-Chancellor Operations, Dr Robert Martin, indicated that his biggest attraction to Univen is because it is one of the six comprehensive universities which presents unique opportunities that impact on the communities it serves. “Convocation is a very important spark on the wheel and should help make the institution felt and known in local communities through tackling problems and challenges they face. Alumni should help open doors for their institution, buy into and influence the institutional strategy.’’ He made a call to all alumni to come on board, engage management on issues which advance the institutional mission and vision.
The outgoing Chairperson of Gauteng Alumni Chapter, Professor Azwinndini Muronga made those who were interested in serving in the chapter to know that they will not solve the 21st century problems such as decolonization and africanization of the curriculum using 17th century solutions. “You will be leading a resourceful province and therefore you will be expected to do more. Leadership is not about the outcomes but the processes, be frontal and open to challenges’.’ He advised the incoming committee to learn to follow their followers in order for them to understand where the chapter is going.
The former SRC President, Mr Ronald Lamola, was elected unopposed as the Chairperson of Gauteng Alumni Chapter. In his inaugural speech, he accepted the mandate with humility, emphasising teamwork in the newly elected leadership collective of the chapter. “Let us put our energy and time to assist the institution to execute and discharge its mandate. I have noted the challenges of the outgoing team and all the inputs made to help us succeed. There is a huge network in this house to help the Institution and also the current students, the majority of whom come from poor families to realise their childhood dreams.’’
Newly elected Gauteng Alumni Chapter Committee posing for a photo with Univen management, members of EXCO of Convocation and Prof Alfred Nevhutanda who was the keynote speaker of the event.
Ready to lead: Newly elected Gauteng Alumni Chapter committee posing for a photo after being elected.
Some of the alumni who attended the relaunch of Gauteng Alumni Chapter.
Issued by: Department of Communications & Marketing
University of Venda
Tel.: (015) 962 8525
Date: 28 August 2017
