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Addressing the gathering, Vice-Chancellor Professor Sibongile Muthwa challenged graduates to step into the world not only with knowledge, but with compassion, ethics and the will to lead transformative change.
“Today is a truly significant day,” Prof Muthwa said, celebrating the 471 qualifications being awarded at the George Campus — 455 undergraduate and 16 postgraduate. These are part of the total 6 208 students set to be capped during this graduation season, with 5 737 students to cross the stage in Gqeberha from 11 – 24 April 2025.
Acknowledging the complexity of many students’ journeys, Prof Muthwa praised their resilience.
“I am acutely aware that for many of you, your journey through university has been complex and, at times, difficult. And yet, here you are today. Strong, unbound and undaunted,” she said, as the granduands and their loved ones listened intently.
Prof Muthwa’s speech underscored the critical role of universities in shaping a just and democratic society, particularly in the face of rising global instability and declining international solidarity. She also reaffirmed Mandela University’s commitment to humanising education, rooted in social justice and community engagement
“The world seems to be retreating into isolationism, and nationalism is again in the forefront of international relations. International solidarity, notions of social justice, equity and development and taking second place to self-interest.
"The principles and values upon which international relations have been based are now being called into question. Universities play a crucial role in fostering the socially just and democratic societies we all aspire to create,” she said.
“At Nelson Mandela University, we embrace a philosophy centred on humanizing education. Our approach draws inspiration from the liberatory educational principles of Paulo Frere, among others. We aim to understand and appreciate the essence of being human; valuing and respecting each individual’s humanity and unique background, while fostering awareness and empowerment in the context of social justice.”
“Our community-based ethos across all disciplines aims to cultivate civic minded graduates who can compete globally, but also have a deep compassion to change the lives of vulnerable, underserved communities in our country.”
In a powerful reflection on the university experience as an expansive, life-altering journey, Prof Muthwa highlighted how, through university education, “wide vistas of your mind open to endless possibilities… Education expands and mediates our worldview and our abilities for mutual coexistence”.
Graduates were urged to step into their power as ethical professionals and leaders equipped to reshape a complex world.
“You have the responsibility to pave new paths for a better, more just world… As a graduate of Nelson Mandela University, you are hopefully not the same person you were when you commenced your studies.”
Prof Muthwa also extended heartfelt gratitude to the families and loved ones who supported the students along the way, acknowledging the village it takes to reach this milestone. She also gave special thanks to academic and support staff for their deep commitment to students’ holistic development.
In closing, she reminded graduates of their continued role in the global community.
“I urge you, as Nelson Mandela University alumni, to go out there and be active ambassadors of this fine institution and all that it stands for,” she said.
With the George ceremonies concluded, attention now turns to the Gqeberha campuses, where graduation ceremonies commence on Friday and will be streamed live on the University’s YouTube page.
This season, the University will confer honorary doctorates on legendary musician, Letta Mbulu; trailblazing accountant, Ntombifuthi Mtoba; feminine scholar and activist, Professor Amina Mama, and environmental lawyer and human rights advocate, Professor David R Boyd.