Addressing the autumn graduation ceremonies, which saw 599 students graduate over two sessions, Dr Fraser-Moleketi described the occasion as both celebratory and deeply personal, marking the culmination of her tenure as Chancellor.
“The two graduation ceremonies today at George Campus hold profound personal significance for me. They are the final two I will preside over as Chancellor of Nelson Mandela University, as my term of office draws to a close,” she said.
Reflecting on her eight years in office, she spoke of the privilege of conferring qualifications on thousands of graduates, describing them as “torchbearers for our nation and your families”, and emphasising the enduring impact of higher education in shaping students’ individual futures and that of society at large.
The George Campus ceremonies form part of the University’s broader autumn graduation season, during which nearly 7 000 qualifications will be conferred across its campuses, including 55 doctoral and 263 master’s degrees.
In her valedictory message, Dr Fraser-Moleketi challenged graduates to navigate an increasingly complex and uncertain global environment with integrity, courage and a commitment to truth.
Invoking the metaphor of the “lodestar” – a guiding light used by sailors navigating uncharted waters – she urged graduates to become moral compasses in a world shaped by disinformation, inequality and shifting geopolitical dynamics.
“In a world that often seems to have lost its moral compass … society desperately needs a lodestar – a guiding light – to navigate the complexity around us. You are that light,” she said.
Drawing on African intellectual traditions, she reminded graduates of their responsibility to contribute meaningfully to society, referencing thinkers such as Frantz Fanon and Achille Mbembe, and calling on them to discern truth, uphold ethical leadership, and actively shape a more just world.
She further highlighted the role of higher education as a “laboratory of hope”, equipping graduates not only with disciplinary knowledge, but with intellectual curiosity, resilience and solutions-driven creativity.
The Chancellor also paid tribute to the families and communities who supported graduates on their academic journeys, acknowledging the collective effort behind each success.
“It took determination, resilience and great sacrifice from the ‘village’ that raised you. To all of those who supported you to get to this point: thank you,” she said.
In her closing remarks, Dr Fraser-Moleketi reflected on legacy and continuity, noting that while her tenure comes to an end, the responsibility for shaping the future now rests with the graduates.
“I step down as Chancellor knowing that the lodestar of this great institution now rests in your hands. Carry it with you. Let it guide you,” she said.
The George Campus ceremonies also mark a transitional moment for the University, as Dr Naledi Pandor assumes the role of Chancellor from 1 April 2026. She will preside over the Gqeberha graduation ceremonies following her official installation on 8 April 2026.
The autumn graduation season will continue in Gqeberha, where a further 6 364 students are expected to graduate, including a significant cohort of postgraduate students, emphasising the University’s growing impact in advancing scholarship and research.
Nelson Mandela University extends its congratulations to all graduates and their families, as well as staff whose support has been integral to this achievement. -