Scores of students, their families, friends and peers are set to descend on the Madibaz Indoor Centre, on South Campus, to celebrate this milestone achievement.
Last week, more than 460 students graduated at the University’s George Campus, which hosted two ceremonies on its premises for the first time.
Mandela University’s Chancellor Dr Geraldine Fraser-Moleketi and Vice-Chancellor Professor Sibongile Muthwa will preside over the ceremonies over the next two weeks, along with other office bearers from the institution.
Among those graduating is Sonaal Ramlugon, who has been conducting research on cannabis since 2011. She will be graduating with her PhD degree in Biochemistry, investigating the anti-obesity and anti-diabetic properties of cannabis.
Ramlugon was drawn to this field as, until now, there have been no anti-diabetic and anti-obesity drugs which have no side-effects. For example, she says, an anti-diabetic drug might help to regulate the blood glucose levels in type 2 diabetic patients, but it can also cause them to gain weight.
Another doctoral degree recipient, Jadé Blume, will obtain a DLitt in Afrikaans for her study of Afrikaans Fishermen’s language – the first since 1957. Blume’s doctoral research looks at how Afrikaans Fishersman’s language differs from the standard variety on several levels.
This language can be found across all the regions in and around South Africa, and the study offers interesting information about the language and insight into fishing communities.
There are also some family successes, with at least two pairs of siblings set to graduate on the same day. Twin sisters Olerato and Oratile Dinake will both graduate on Friday, 14 April 2023, with an Advanced Diploma in Business Studies: Management Practice and a Diploma in Management, respectively.
Siblings Jenna and Noah Thomas are set to cross the stage on 19 April 2023, which happens to be the 14th anniversary of the day their mother and her sister graduated at the same venue in 2009.
The Mapaling siblings, Curwyn and Farryn, are lapping up a double dose of pride as they are set to be capped on 19 April 2023. Curwyn, who was recognised as a Rising Star at the recent Alumni Awards, will obtain his doctorate in Education; while his younger sister will be conferred with an honours degree in English.
Addressing the congregation during the George Campus graduation last week, Vice-Chancellor Professor Sibongile Muthwa highlighted the significance of this period for students and their families, as well as the University.
“Graduation is but one of many milestones on your life’s journey. You now need to set your sights on the next milestone you want to achieve. Universities serve as engines for building the kind of socially just, democratic societies that we all wish to live in,” she said.
“You have successfully completed this chapter of your life. As you proceed on your journey, we wish you everything of the best.”
