Considering celebrating Workers’ Day, these societies reflected and collaboratively enacted on what it means to authentically honour the significance of Workers’ Day.
Students relieved support staff from their duties and responsibilities, assisting with the cleaning of the Dining Hall, campus clinic, various residences, and the Mopani building. Students showed not only how to learn from staff, but also to walk in their shoes, due to their dedication in ensuring seamless day-to-day operations.
“This project, initiated and led by the societies’ leadership, holds more than what meets the eye – it hinges on students’ profound respect for staff members and appreciation for their efforts in creating a supportive learning environment on campus.
“They do tremendous work for us on campus. They keep our campus safe, clean, prepare meals, and maintain our infrastructure – we thought to do something to express our appreciation towards them,” said Vuyani Ngobese, third-year forestry student and founder and chairperson of Kindness@Mandela.
To end the day, students treated the staff to tea and coffee and shared the purpose behind the celebration. “No qualification can be conferred without efficient daily functioning, put forth by the general workers of the University.
Despite everyday routines, familiar territory and the usual faces every day – students acknowledged that workers are always seen, valued and loved, and that one day will never be sufficient in celebrating how cherished they are – they deserve to be celebrated every day”, said the students as they handed out tokens of appreciation to all staff.
Support services staff member, Monica Ganyaza remarked, “I love what the students are doing for us. On Mother’s Day, they gifted us with cups and today they are assisting the cleaning staff – they are doing the work, while we are assisting them.”
These acts of kindness reflect the kind of community and culture built at George Campus – one grounded in support, care, empathy and love. The gestures are not just about unselfishness; they are about recognising the dignity in every role and showing gratitude through action. It serves as a heartfelt reminder to us all to continually reflect and strive to be better individuals every day.
Our support staff serve us tirelessly and selflessly each day, often without showing any signs of fatigue or strain. They are the quiet force behind the smooth operation of our campus, making it a functional, welcoming, and conducive environment for all.
This initiative was designed to redirect our focus back to these often-overlooked individuals — those who may not always be in the spotlight, but whose contributions are invaluable. By recognising and appreciating their efforts, we acknowledge the true heart of our University community and affirm our commitment to a culture of gratitude, respect, and inclusivity, the students said.
Observed annually on 1 May, Workers’ Day is a national public holiday in South Africa that honours the contributions of workers and the labour movement. This year, instead of a day off, a group of students chose to show their gratitude by taking over tasks usually handled by essential campus personnel.