On Monday, 30 October 2017 Univen staff members came together to witness and support the retirement farewell function of Prof Thina Ngobeli. The farewell function took place in the Council Chambers.
Prof Thina Ngobeli who served the University of Venda (Univen) for 28 years said “I have fought a fight and finished my race”. She advised those in her office to play their part and continue supporting her successor. She further thanked staff members, Deans and Senior Managers for their support during her tenure in the Office.
Prof Ngobeli started to serve the University as a lecturer, she then rose through the ranks into Deanship and finally as Director Institutional Planning and Quality Assurance (IPQA) Directorate, the position she held until her retirement. She has groomed many people, who are currently occupying senior positions, which she is proud of. “I feel like Im have played my part and I am ready to start my new chapter of life,” She concluded.
The Vice-Chancellor and Principal, Prof Peter Mbati has denoted Prof Ngobeli as a hardworking person who is dedicated and passionate about her job. He further described Prof Ngobeli as someone you can depend on. He said Prof Ngobeli has contributed positively in the University’s endeavor to overcome tough challenges. “Prof Ngobeli has also contributed immensely for the past ten years in the University’s new strategic plan. We thank you for your hardwork, passion, and your patience.”
The Vice-Chancellor has pronounced Prof Ngobeli as a selfless person. He said she has laid an excellent foundation of the Directorate of Institutional Planning and Quality Assurance. She was always at the forefront of the University’s academic re-engineering exercise. He added that she has raised the bar high and she therefore deserves to relax and enjoy her retirement.
In his opening, welcome and purpose of the event message, Mr Takalani Dzaga, Director Communications and Marketing said that the knowledge that Prof Ngobeli has is treasured and should the University need her help in future, they shouldn’t hesitate to ask for help from her. Mr Dzaga expressed that Prof Ngobeli will continue to be inspirational because of her wisdom and commitment.
When proposing vote of thanks, the Deputy Vice-Chancellor Academic, Prof Jan Crafford appreciated Prof Ngobeli for empowering her Directorate. Prof Crafford commended Prof Ngobeli for ensuring that Univen has a clean Programme and Qualification Mix (PQM) and as such the University is offering qualifications which are accredited.
Prof Peter Mbati presenting a gift to Prof Thina Ngobeli for her sterling contribution to Univen
Staff members who gathered at Senate Chambers in support of the Farewell Function of Ngobeli
Univen Executive Management with Prof Thina Ngobeli and staff members from the Institutional Planning and Quality Assurance (IQPA) Directorate pose for a photo during the Farewell Function
Prof Thina Ngobeli (middle) with members of her Directorate
Prof Ngobeli pose with her two sisters who accompanied her to the farewell function
Issued by:
Department of Communications and Marketing
University of Venda
Tel: 015 962 8525
Date: 20 November 2017
