Ambassador Mfenyana was recognised for his life-long struggle for South Africa’s liberation, his vocality on anti-corruption and patronage and his firm belief in constitutional democracy. Acclaimed paediatric cardiologist and former Dean of the Faculty of Health Sciences, the late Professor Lungile Pepeta and celebrated media personality, Noxolo Grootboom, are the two other remarkable South Africans who will also be honoured by the University this season.
In her address to the congregation at the Madibaz Indoor Centre on the institution’s South Campus this morning, Chancellor Dr Geraldine Fraser-Moleketi congratulated the Business and Economic Sciences faculty graduates, who are among the 7 070 students graduating this season, on the fruits of their hard work.
“Hard work, no short cuts and dreams are also what epitomise and mark our celebrations today at graduation,” she said.
“Each of you have put in the hard work, which is the hallmark of every degree, diploma and certificate being awarded. It is the key ingredient of success. And your graduation symbolises the realisation of dreams, of completing your studies, and also of new future paths each of you will embark upon.
“As you live your dreams, you make real our rallying call as Nelson Mandela University to change the world.”
Dr Fraser-Moleketi said the University’s newly adopted Vision 2030 was the blueprint for the institution’s strategic intentions for the next decade.
“We are clear in our commitment to liberate human potential through humanising learning and teaching; pursue impactful, pioneering research, innovation and internationalisation to address grand societal challenges and promote sustainable futures; engage with all publics in equalising partnerships to co-create transformative, contextually responsive solutions in pursuit of social justice and equality, and being purposefully student centric,” she said.
“These commitments rest on the bedrock of ethical governance and leadership; actively inculcating an inclusive, values-driven institutional culture; and co-creation with stakeholders through partnerships.”
Ambassador Mfenyana, who was accompanied by his wife, Rita, and other family members, said he was honoured to be associated with Mandela University, given what it stands for.
“I am grateful for the high honour bestowed upon me. I owe this to my parents and family, for their encouragement and high expectations,” he said, addressing graduands and their families.
“I owe it to the leaders and comrades, who provided guidance and support during periods of strife and personal strain. In particular, the encouragement from my life-long partner through thick and thin.”
Addressing the graduands, in particular, Ambassador Mfenyana said it was evident from the vision, mission and values of the University that it aims to produce a high calibre of well-rounded graduates, who are sensitive to the needs of their communities, willing and able to transform the country, and contribute to a better world.
“To you falls the task of continuing the struggle for economic emancipation in today’s challenging times. This requires new ideas and a steadfast resolve, to live by the principles of Mandela, and uphold his legacy against the social ills of racism, sexism, tribalism and corruption in all its manifestations,” he said.
“I wish to pay sincere tribute to those who are responsible for the students, staff, and administration of the Nelson Mandela University, under Vice-Chancellor, Dr Sibongile Muthwa, Chair of Council of the university Ms Nozipho January-Bardill, and the Chancellor Dr Geraldine Fraser-Moleketi.
“May your endeavours be crowned with unqualified success.”
The Gqeberha campuses graduation will run over 23 ceremonies, until 05 May 2022, and is being livestreamed on the University’s YouTube channel.
