The newly admitted international students 2018 were welcomed to the University during an Orientation programme organised by the Directorate of International Relations, Student Representative Council (SRC), and University of Venda International Student Union (UNISU). The event was held at the Research Conference Centre on 20 March 2018. The programme started with a tour around Thohoyandou in the morning, where the students were taken to the Thohoyandou Post Office, Department of Home Affairs, Tshilidzini Hospital, Thavhani Mall, etc. and closed with a formal function in the evening.
The Acting Director International Relations, Dr Segun Obadire during his opening speech congratulated the new international students who after 13 years of schooling, chose to pursue higher degree at the University of Venda. Dr Obadire stressed that “we at the University of Venda are proud that you have chosen our University as a place to study.” He conveyed the warm welcome from the Acting Vice-Chancellor and Principal, Prof Jan Crafford and the management to all international students. He advised the students to pursue their career with motivation, great pleasure, enthusiasm, and commitment while the management thrive to give education and service of utmost quality. He encouraged them to participate in different intercultural activities like the internationalisation evening, Buddy programme, Africa day, celebration of countries independence days organized for local and international students.”
Dr Segun Obadire, Ag. Director International Relations addressing the students
The Minister of Information, External Affairs and International Relations, Ms Mapaseka Mokgaphane, in her message of support to the students stressed that the SRC in collaboration with the University management endeavours to ensure a peaceful stay for all students, irrespective of nationality.
Ms Mapaseka Mokgaphane, SRC Minister of Information, External Affairs and International Relations at the function
Mr Takalani Philip Nyelisani, Schools Liaison Officer, Department of Communications and Marketing stressed the need to learn, understand and speak indigenous languages. He took the students through basic Tshivenda language and also performed some exercises. He further stressed that speaking in indigenous language tells how much you have appreciated the people. This also determine how much you will be welcomed.
Mr Takalani Philip Nyelisani demonstrating signs of indigenous languages
Mr Ishmael O. Iwara in his capacity as the Executive President of the UNISU, having appreciated the management and students for being part of the event stressed that “we feel delighted even in the spirit to welcome a new crop of prospective scholars into the struggle.” He further stated that the seasoned induction implies that the Directorate of International Relations, and University of Venda community at large are living up to standards – viable of competing in the global space. “We should all be proud, and continue to impact positively until the institution becomes the best place for everyone, irrespective of cultural background and Nationality.” He also mentioned that the University is culturally diverse with numerous social clusters that may deter or influence success of the new crops.
Comrade Ishmael O. Iwara, Executive President of UNISU
There were high turn-out of both local and international students during the Welcoming function. They were all entertained by different UNIVEN cultural groups who performed to the delight of the participants during the programme. Mrs Daisy Dlamini, Vice President, UNISU in her vote of thanks, heartily appreciated the University management for providing a place for the international students. She further appreciated the organiser of the programme and everyone present at the Welcoming function. She entreated participants to integrate with both international and local students without fear of being attacked – stating that “our mother students are not only friendly but have the interest of international students at heart. You will not be attacked for no reason.”
Some of the first etering international students during the Tour of Thohoyandou
Issued by:
Department of Communications & Marketing
University of Venda
Tel: (015) 962 8525
Date: 23 March 2018
