UWC is a research-led university responsive to the needs of a changing world through excellence in learning, teaching and research, and the generation and application of new knowledge.
Firmly anchored in its local and sub-regional context and inspired by its distinctive academic role in building a more equitable and dynamic society, the University continues to empower its students, staff and partners to advance its mission of serving the greater public good and searching for humane and sustainable solutions to the challenges of our time. This is pursued through high academic standards, intellectual rigour and productive partnerships and networks beyond the confines of disciplinary and geographic boundaries.
MESSAGE FROM THE CHANCELLOR
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Today, as we celebrate your achievements, we also recognise the determination and sacrifices that have brought you here. Take a moment to reflect on your journey, the nervous excitement of your first lecture, the long nights of study, and the challenges that tested your perseverance. There were times when the road ahead seemed uncertain, but you kept going. Now, you stand here, ready to step into the world as graduates of the University of the Western Cape (UWC).
The world you are entering holds both promise and complexity. Like much of the world, South Africa stands at a crossroads. Inequality, economic instability, and social injustice remain harsh realities for many. Yet, we are reminded that change begins when we refuse to be silent in the face of injustice. No one can be left out of the process. Too many voices in our society remain unheard, including women, children, the poor, and those pushed to the margins. The voices of the marginalised must be heard, their dreams shared, and their power reclaimed. As UWC graduates, you have not only gained knowledge but also the responsibility to be active citizens, to question, to challenge, and to lead with integrity. The true value of education is not measured by personal success alone but by how it is used to uplift others. Whether you enter boardrooms, classrooms, hospitals, or courtrooms, let your leadership create spaces where dignity and fairness prevail.
Our faith teaches us that there are no outsiders. All are welcome, regardless of race, background, gender, or identity. These are not just words; they are a call to action. In a world too often divided, let your success be defined by the inclusivity and justice you champion. Carry this commitment with you as you shape your future and the world around you. Hope has two beautiful daughters. One is anger at the way things are, and the other is the courage to change them. Let your courage be your guide. Speak out when you witness injustice, stand up for those who are silenced, and use your education to give others hope.
Wherever life takes you, remember this. Take pride in how far you have come but never lose sight of how far you can go. The world is waiting for you, not just as professionals, but as leaders who can make a difference.
Soos ons vandag u prestasies vier, erken ons ook die vasberadenheid en opofferinge wat jou tot hier gebring het. Vat ’n oomblik om op jou reis te reflekteer, die senuwees en opgewondenheid van jou eerste lesing, die laat nagte van studeer en die uitdagings wat jou deursettingsvermoë getoets het. Daar was tye wat die pad vorentoe onseker was, maar jy het aangehou. Nou staan jy hier, reg om die wêreld in te stap as ’n gegradueerde student van die Universiteit van Wes-Kaapland (UWK).
Die wêreld wat jy betree, hou beide belofte en kompleksiteit in. Soos ’n groot deel van die wêreld, staan Suid-Afrika op ’n kruispad. Onregverdigheid, ekonomiese onstabiliteit en sosiale onreg bly die harde werklikhede vir baie. Tog word ons daaraan herinner dat verandering begin wanneer ons weier om stil te bly in die aangesig van onreg. Niemand kan uit die proses gelaat word nie. Te veel stemme in ons samelewing bly ongehoord, insluitend vroue, kinders, die armes en dié wat opsy geskuif word. Die stemme van die gemarginaliseerde moet gehoor word, hul drome moet gedeel word en hul mag moet teruggeëis word. As UWK-gegradueerdes het jy nie net kennis gewerf nie, maar ook die verantwoordelikheid om ’n bydraende burger te wees, om vrae te vra, om uit te daag en om te lei met integriteit. Die waarde van onderwys word nie net alleen gemeet aan persoonlike sukses nie, maar aan hoe dit gebruik word om ander op te hef. Of jy nou raadskamers, klaskamers, hospitale of hofsale betree, laat jou leierskap ruimtes skep waar waardigheid en billikheid heers.
Ons geloof leer ons dat daar geen buitestaanders is nie. Almal is welkom, ongeag ras, agtergrond, geslag of identiteit. Dit is nie net woorde nie; dit is ’n oproep tot aksie. In ’n wêreld wat dikwels verdeeld is, laat jou sukses gedefinieer word deur die inklusiwiteit en geregtigheid wat jy bevorder. Dra hierdie verbintenis saam met jou terwyl jy jou toekoms en die wêreld rondom jou vorm. Hoop het twee pragtige dogters. Een is woede oor hoe dinge staan, en die ander is die moed om dit te verander. Laat jou moed jou gids wees. Praat uit wanneer jy onreg aanskou, staan op vir diegene wat stilgemaak word, en gebruik jou opvoeding om ander hoop te gee.
Waar ook al die lewe jou neem, onthou dit: Wees trots op hoe ver jy gekom het, maar moenie sig verloor van hoe ver jy kan gaan nie. Die wêreld wag op jou, nie net as ’n professionele mens nie, maar as leiers wat ’n verskil kan maak.
Baie geluk Klas van 2024!
ARCHBISHOP
THABO MAKGOBA CHANCELLOR
UNIVERSITY OF THE WESTERN CAPE
Dear Graduands,
MESSAGE FROM THE RECTOR
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At the University of the Western Cape (UWC), we believe that education is about more than acquiring knowledge, it is about personal growth and the ability to make a meaningful difference in society. Graduation is a powerful reminder of the hard work and determination that have shaped your journey. Today, we celebrate your success while also reflecting on the experiences you have gained along the way.
For many, this journey has been filled with challenges, some anticipated, others unforeseen. Yet, with each obstacle, you have adapted, persevered, and emerged stronger. Struggle may be your soil, but resilience is your flower. Like the Protea on our University’s emblem, you have thrived despite adversity. This is what defines a UWC graduate.
Our graduates are stepping into a world that is both full of promise and fraught with uncertainty. In this moment of transition, I encourage you to hold fast to the values that have guided you during your time here. Take pride in how far you have come and have faith in how far you can go. Our country, our continent, and our world need critical thinkers, problem solvers, and leaders who are willing to create a more just and sustainable future. You have the knowledge and skills to do so, use them with purpose.
But remember, success is not measured by personal achievement alone. It is also found in service, lifting others as you rise and staying connected to the communities that have supported you. True academic wealth is not locked away, it is meant to be shared. The knowledge you have gained benefits you, but it is also a tool to help build a better world.
As you step into this new chapter, carry with you the integrity and sense of purpose that define a UWC graduate. No matter where life takes you, remember that you are part of a community that believes in social justice and the power of education to transform lives. Go forward with confidence, knowing that you are wellprepared to shape a future that is brighter and full of possibilities.
By die Universiteit van Wes-Kaapland (UWK) glo ons dat opvoeding meer is as net die verkryging van kennis; dit gaan oor persoonlike groei en die vermoë om ’n betekenisvolle verskil in die samelewing te maak. Gradeplegtigheid is ’n kragtige herinnering van die harde werk en vasberadenheid wat jou reis gevorm het. Vandag vier ons jou sukses, terwyl ons ook reflekteer oor die ervarings wat jy langs die pad opgedoen het.
Vir baie was hierdie reis vol uitdagings, vir party voorspelbaar, vir ander onverwags. Tog het jy, met elke hindernis, jouself aangepas, aangehou en sterker uit die stryd gekom. Struikelblokke mag jou grond wees, maar uithouvermoë is jou blom. Soos die Protea op ons Universiteit se embleem, het jy oorleef en gespruit, ondanks teenspoed. Dit is wat ’n UWKgegradueerde student definieer.
Ons gegradueerde studente stap in ’n wêreld wat vol is met beloftes en onsekerheid. In hierdie oomblik van oorgang, moedig ek jou aan om vas te hou aan die waardes wat jou gelei het gedurende jou tyd hier. Wees trots oor hoe ver jy gekom het en glo in hoe ver jy kan gaan. Ons land, ons kontinent en ons wêreld benodig kritiese denkers, probleem oplossers en leiers wat bereid is om ’n meer regverdige en volhoubare toekoms te skep. Dis ’n doel wat jy kan haal met die kennis en vaardighede wat jy bereik het.
Maar onthou, sukses word nie net gemeet deur persoonlike prestasie nie. Dit word ook gevind in diens, ander op te hef terwyl jy styg en om verbind te bly met die gemeenskappe wat jou ondersteun het. Ware akademiese rykdom is nie weggesluit nie, dit is bedoel om gedeel te word. Die kennis wat jy verwerf het, bevoordeel jou, maar dit is ook ’n hulpmiddel om ’n beter wêreld te bou.
Soos jy in hierdie nuwe hoofstuk begin, dra die integriteit en gevoel van doel wat ’n UWKgegradueerde student definieer. Maak nie saak waar die lewe jou neem nie, onthou dat jy deel is van ’n gemeenskap wat in sosiale geregtigheid en die mag van opvoeding om lewens te transformeer glo. Gaan vorentoe met selfvertroue, wetende dat jy goed voorberei is om ’n toekoms te vorm wat helderder is en vol moontlikhede.
Geluk!
PROF ROBERT J. BALFOUR RECTOR AND VICE-CHANCELLOR UNIVERSITY OF THE WESTERN CAPE
AND FIGURES
UNIVERSITY OF THE WESTERN CAPE
TOTALSTUDENTPOPULATIONENROLMENT
SUCCESSRATE
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HISTORIC MILESTONES
UNIVERSITY OF THE WESTERN CAPE
1960: The University College of the Western Cape opens its doors.
1970: The institution gains independent university status and is allowed to award its own degrees and diplomas.
1975: Prof Richard van der Ross is appointed as UWC’s first black Rector.
1978: UWC’s Cape Flats Nature Reserve is declared a National Monument (now known as a provincial heritage site).
1987: New Rector and Vice-Chancellor, Prof Jakes Gerwel, declares UWC as the ‘university of the left’. The University deracialises and opens its doors to African students.
UWC inaugurates its longest-serving Chancellor, Archbishop Desmond Tutu, who would serve for more than 25 years.
1990: UWC becomes the first university to award the late President Mandela an honorary doctorate upon his release from prison.
1994: Many academics from UWC join President Mandela’s government and are appointed to ministerial and advisory positions, including its Rector, Prof Gerwel, who became the Director-General in the Presidency.
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1994: UWC’s leadership takes part in writing the higher education policy for the incoming government. The South African interim Constitution and final Constitution are drafted at UWC.
1995: UWC launches its first website – joining the internet age before other universities in the Mother City.
UWC launches the Institute for Poverty, Land and Agrarian Studies (PLAAS) to engage in research, training, policy development and advocacy in relation to land reform, rural governance and natural resource management.
2002: Under the leadership of Rector and Vice-Chancellor, Prof Brian O’Connell, UWC successfully resists being merged. Instead, its Dentistry Faculty is merged with that of the University of Stellenbosch, making UWC the only dentistry faculty in the Western Cape.
2010: 10 SARChI chairs awarded to UWC, the highest number awarded to any university in SA that year (as of 2018, UWC hosts 17 SARChI Chairs).
2012: UWC launches its Technology Transfer Office to help promote the development and protection of the intellectual property of the University’s research community, staff and students.
HISTORIC MILESTONES
UNIVERSITY OF THE WESTERN CAPE
2012: UWC is declared Africa’s Greenest Campus in the inaugural African Green Campus Initiative Challenge.
2013: UWC signs the Berlin Declaration on Open Access in the Sciences and Humanities, joining hundreds of institutions around the world dedicated to supporting the principles of open access and working to achieve openness in publicly funded projects.
2015: Prof Tyrone Pretorius is inaugurated as the new Rector and Vice-Chancellor.
2016: UWC’s Centre for Humanities Research is awarded the Flagship on Critical Thought in African Humanities by the NRF.
UWC is ranked number 1 in Physical Science – not just in South Africa, but for Africa as a whole – in the 2016 Nature Index.
2017: A group of UWC students, led by Prof Nico Orce, conduct the second major African-led experiment at the CERN laboratory in Switzerland.
UWC’s former Vice-Chancellor, Prof Brian O’Connell, receives the National Research Foundation’s highest honour, the NRF Lifetime Achievement Award.
2018: The Faculty of Dentistry launches a state-of-the-art video conferencing system that allows students to watch live surgeries in class or at home – a first for South Africa.
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2018: UWC Choir made its debut at the World Choir Games. The choir came first in its category, bringing home the gold medal and the titleWorld Champions.
2019: UWC Rugby makes its historical debut in the Varsity Cup, by becoming the first team from an historically disadvantaged institution to qualify for the competition.
2020: UWC’s South African National Bioinformatics Institute (SANBI), in collaboration with researchers from the National Institute for Communicable Diseases (NICD), sequenced the first SARS-COV-2 genome in South Africa, providing a genetic “fingerprint” helped us understand - and contain - the spread of COVID-19.
UWC celebrates its 60th anniversary.
2022: Professor Russell H Kaschula is appointed as the Research Chair in Forensic Linguistics and Multilingualism – a first in Africa.
The UWC Main Hall is renamed the Jakes Gerwel Hall to honour this iconic leader.
2023: Professor Marion Keim is appointed as the UNESCO Chair for Sport, Development, Peace and Olympic Education – the first ever awarded UNESCO Chair in Sport in Africa
HISTORIC MILESTONES
UNIVERSITY OF THE WESTERN CAPE
2023: Four significant infrastructure projects are completed in 2022 and 2023, including the Education Faculty building on the main campus, the 2700-bed Unibell Residence complex in Belhar, the Centre for Humanities Research building in Woodstock, and the UWC Innovation Hub in Parow.
2024: The first year of the full implementation of the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Programme, which provides full bursaries to 250 undergraduate and 250 Master’s students as part of a seven-year agreement.
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2024: UWC is the first and only university team to compete in the inaugural CAF Women’s Champions LeagueAfrica’s premier club competition for women’s football.
2025: Prof Robert John Balfour is inaugurated as the 8th Rector and Vice-Chancellor
OFFICE BEARERS
OF THE UNIVERSITY OF THE WESTERN CAPE
CHANCELLOR
The Most Reverend Dr TC Makgoba (PhD, Doctorate of Divinity: Hon. Causa)
CHAIR OF COUNCIL
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Ms X Mpongoshe (Dipl. Juris, B. Proc, Cert in Compliance Management, Cert. CRO (Euromoney London))
RECTOR AND VICE-CHANCELLOR
Prof R Balfour (BA, BA (Hons), HDE, MA, PhD)
VICE-RECTORS AND DEPUTY VICE-CHANCELLORS
Prof MK Ralarala (HDE (Arts), BA (Hons), MA, DLitt, PhD)
Prof J Frantz (BSc, MSc, PhD)
Prof M Madiba (BA (Paed), B.Ed (Hons), B.Ed (Hons), BA (Hons) (English), MA Linguistics (Applied Studies), PhD)
REGISTRAR
Dr N Lawton-Misra (BA, BEd, MEd (Educational Psychology), PhD (Educational Psychology))
EXECUTIVE DIRECTORS
Mr ME Magida (BProc, LLB, LLM)
Mr M Regal (BCom (Hons), CA (SA), M Dev Studies)
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Prof S Nadar Acting (BA (Hons) MSocSc, PhD)
DEANS
Prof A Padmanabhanunni (BA Hons (Psych), MA (Counselling Psych), PhD)
Prof V Yengopal (BChD, BSc (Hons), PGDip, MChD, PhD)
Prof K Yu Acting (BBA, BEcon (Hons), MEcon , PhD)
Prof R Govender (BSc; BSc Honours (Mathematics); MEd and PHD (Mathematics Education))
Prof JR De Ville (BCom, LLB, LLD)
Prof D Holgate (BSc, BSc (Hons), MSc, PhD)
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FACULTY
OF ARTS AND HUMANITIES 16 APRIL 2025 | 09H30
FACULTY OF ECONOMIC AND MANAGEMENT SCIENCES
FACULTY OF NATURAL SCIENCES
ORDER OF PROCEEDINGS
1. Academic Procession (THE AUDIENCE IS REQUESTED TO STAND AS THE PROCESSION ENTERS THE HALL)
2. The Chancellor / Vice-Chancellor constitutes the congregation
3. National Anthem
4. Prayer
5. Address: SRC
6. Address: Rector and Vice-Chancellor
7. Item in song
8. Presentation of Graduands to the Chancellor / Vice-Chancellor
9. The Chancellor / Vice-Chancellor dissolves the congregation
10. The Academic Procession leaves the hall
NB: THE AUDIENCE IS REQUESTED TO REMAIN STANDING UNTIL THE PROCESSION HAS LEFT THE HALL.
TIME AND VENUE
GRADUATION CEREMONY 16 APRIL 2025 (WEDNESDAY) UWC CAMPUS 09H30
Morena boloka setjhaba sa heso, O fedise dintwa le matshwenyeho, O se boloke, O se boloke setjhaba sa heso, Setjhaba sa South Afrika – South Afrika.
Uit die blou van onse hemel, Uit die diepte van ons see, Oor ons ewige gebergtes, Waar die kranse antwoord gee,
Sounds the call to come together, And united we shall stand, Let us live and strive for freedom, In South Africa our land.
FACULTY OF NATURAL SCIENCES
DOCTOR’S DEGREES DOCTOR OF PHILOSOPHY
OMOLOLA AINA
Department: BIOTECHNOLOGY
Supervisor: PROF A KLEIN
Co-supervisors: PROF M KEYSTER, DR A FADAKA
Thesis:
Controlling the interactive effects of Fusarium oxysporum and drought in soybean plants using seaweed extracts
Description:
This study evaluated seaweed extracts as eco-friendly alternatives to chemical fungicides for controlling Fusarium oxysporum infection in soybean plants under drought stress. Using mass spectrometry-based phytochemical analysis, molecular docking, and plant growth trials, Omolola identified antioxidant-rich compounds that inhibited fungal growth by disrupting cell wall integrity and interacting with key fungal enzymes. These extracts showed promise for enhancing soybean resistance by reducing ROS-induced oxidative damage and boosting defense mechanisms. Overall, this study highlights the potential of seaweed extracts as sustainable solutions for enhancing soybean resistance to interactive stress factors and has led to three publications in DHET-accredited journals.
NATASHA DONN-ARNOLD
Department: EARTH SCIENCE
Supervisor: PROF T KANYERERE
Co-supervisor: PROF J GOLDIN
Thesis:
Application of the citizen science approach to assess the impact of water management technology in urban water demand management: City of Cape Town, South Africa
Description:
Mrs Donn-Arnold used citizen science approach to demontrate how water-based smarttechnologies lead to water-poverty and boost water-business in urban communities. Bibliometric and scientometric techniques were used to analyse mapped relationships among water supply, demand, and economic factors affecting water availability. Econometric tools were used to analyse water billing data that showed areas with inadequate water quantity and tariff payments. Results showed how water meter readers make erros in reporting quanfitied data for accurate billing. New knowledge was generated on citizens using online water platforms. The study recommended using citizen science tools in an interactive water platforms that would enable gathering substantial data to reduce waterpoverty and moderate water-business in managing urban water.
FACULTY OF NATURAL SCIENCES
DOCTOR’S DEGREES
DOCTOR OF PHILOSOPHY
JACQUES-GERNORE FRANS
Department: MEDICAL BIOSCIENCES
Supervisor: PROF E POOL
Co-supervisor: DR K LATEGAN
Thesis:
Proteome modulatory potential of nanoparticles
Description:
The use of nanomaterials has increased significantly. These materials are released into the environment via manufacturing and industrial processes, consumer product use etc. They pose a potential risk to environmental and human health. This study investigated the effects of engineered nanomaterials on the immune system and enzymatic activity related to neurological function. Mr Frans’ results indicated that some of the engineered nanomaterials are toxic, they may also result in inflammation, leading to possible allergies and hypersensitivities. Some of these nanomaterials also negatively impacted enzymatic activity related to brain function. The assays developed can be used to screen new products for risk to the immune and nervous system and stop them from entering the market.
NOMAGUGU GXABA
Department: BIOTECHNOLOGY
Supervisor: PROF N LUDIDI
Co-supervisor: DR I EGBICHI
Thesis:
Characterisation of physiological and molecular determinants of the contrasting responses to drought in two cowpea genotypes
Description:
Ms Gxaba’s thesis identified cowpea genotypes with contrasting tolerance to drought. She used physiological, biochemical and metabolomics analyses to identify key physiological and molecular processes determining drought tolerance in this important grain and vegetable crop indigenous to Africa. Her work shows that the identified molecular networks offer opportunities for increasing cowpea resilience to drought through tailored molecular breeding. These lay a foundation for building resilience and sustainability in the African food system and adapting to one of the most important impacts of climate change on food security.
FACULTY OF NATURAL SCIENCES
DOCTOR’S DEGREES DOCTOR OF PHILOSOPHY
MOYIN JOHN
Department: STATISTICS AND POPULATION STUDIES
Supervisor: PROF S APPUNNI
Thesis:
Assessing the impact of education and employment on economic competitiveness in South African provinces
Description:
This study examines the economic competitiveness of South Africa’s provinces from 2010 to 2020, focusing on education and employment. It explores regional disparities in industrial production and economic development, particularly in education and employment. Using secondary data from sources like Stats SA’s Quarterly Labour Force Survey, GDP reports, and the UNDP’s Human Development Index, the study analyses trends in employment, GDP, education, and regional development. The shift-share analysis is employed to examine how provincial economic trends relate to national patterns, guided by growth theories to understand territorial imbalances.
BRAMLEY JEMAIN LEMINE
Department: EARTH SCIENCE
Supervisor: PROF T KANYERERE
Co-supervisor: DR C ALBERTUS
Thesis:
Application of the legal approach to design a strategy for the improved management of wetlands in South Africa
Description:
Mr. Lemine used water-based legal techniques to design a strategy for improving wetland management in South Africa which is rare in wetland conservation discipline. The study used management lens of sustainable development principle, local government and rehabilitation as theoretical, conceptual, analytical and interpretational frameworks. Available data on international conventions, legislation, case laws, policies and constitution of South Africa were accessed, analysed and used. Gaps identified through management lens revealed actions required to improve wetlands conservation. Results showed that the designed strategy, when implemented, could act as a catalyst for improved wetland management. Seven papers have been published in DHET-accredited journals plus one book chapter. Results have been disseminated in several conferences worldwide.
FACULTY OF NATURAL SCIENCES
DOCTOR’S DEGREES DOCTOR OF PHILOSOPHY
SIPHESIHLE MAGUBANE
Department: PHYSICS AND ASTRONOMY
Supervisor: PROF C ARENDSE
Co-supervisor: DR A BOLOKANG
Thesis:
Vapour transport deposition of multi-dimensional tin-lead perovskite thin films
Description:
Solar energy is South Africa’s most abundant renewable energy resource. Therefore, novel absorber materials are required to harness the abundant solar energy through its efficient conversion to electricity by using solar cells. Perovskite thin films achieve over 25% efficiency in this task. However, perovskites pose challenges as they are costly to produce, involve toxic lead, and lack air-stability. Siphesihle’s research addressed these drawbacks through the development of a deposition technique to produce multi-dimensional perovskite thin films with reduced lead content and superior structural and opto-electronic properties. His research resulted in international publications and paves the way for a cost-effective method to produce air-stable and eco-friendly perovskite solar panels.
MXOLISI MUKHAWANA
Department: EARTH SCIENCE
Supervisor: PROF T KANYERERE
Co-supervisor: PROF D KAHLER
Thesis:
Application of multi-index approach to develop an integrated drought monitoring system, Western Cape Province, South Africa
Description:
The candidate designed a new Standardised Non-Linear Multi-Index method which he used to develop an integrated drought monitoring system. The design was done by combining recommended drought indices such as SPI-3/SPEI-3, SPI-6/SPEI-6, SSI, and SGI. This new developed method is based on standardised indices and uses non-linear copulas to combine SPI-3/SPEI-3, SPI-6/SPEI-6, SSI and SGI. The new method was tested in Western Cape of South Africa. Successful implementation and scaling up of the method requires evaluating different copula candidates like Frank, Clayton, Gumbel, and Gaussian copula through visual inspections, goodness-of-fit tests, and correlation statistics to select the most suitable candidate. Novelty of the study is publications. Five papers in international peerreviewed journals have been published.
FACULTY OF NATURAL SCIENCES
DOCTOR’S DEGREES DOCTOR OF PHILOSOPHY
JIHONG QI
Department: EARTH SCIENCE
Supervisor: PROF Y XU
Co-supervisor: PROF T KANYERERE
Thesis:
Assessment for sustainable water utilisation from the Huixian Karst Wetland in Guilin of China
Description:
The thesis employs a comprehensive approach to address resource sustainability challenges in karst watershed areas, integrating remote sensing, numerical simulation, and field verification. It quantifies water resource availability by incorporating an evaluation of wetland health status. This methodology provides a critical framework for guiding the sustainable management of karst water resources in analogous ecological and geological contexts.
VERENA RAS
Department: BIODIVERSITY AND CONSERVATION BIOLOGY
Supervisor: PROF M GIBBONS
Co-supervisor: PROF A ENGELBRECHT
Thesis:
Population biology and species connectivity of African Scyphomedusae (Pelagiidae; Saemaeostomae) - with special focus on West African populations
Description:
Our understanding of African jellyfish diversity is scant. Using samples collected along the length of W Africa by the FAO’s EAF Nansen Programme, Verena demonstrates high diversity both within and between regions and at the inter- and intra-species level. Some of this diversity is caused by local oceanography: dynamic regions are associated with significant population structure; bays are associated with genetic/morphometric stability. Although paraphyly complicates interpretation of evolution in Pelagiidae, Verena’s employment of a rich taxon set, and unambiguous molecular markers indicates an initial radiation in the NE Pacific during the late Cretaceous, multiple radiations in the Paleogene/Neogene Periods and recent radiation during the Pliocene. Dispersal, not vicariance, is the primary driver of the disjointed structure observed.
FACULTY OF NATURAL SCIENCES
DOCTOR’S DEGREES
DOCTOR OF PHILOSOPHY
LYLE ADRIAN SEPTEMBER
Department: CHEMISTRY
Supervisor: PROF L KHOTSENG
Co-supervisors: DR N SEROKA, DR N KHESWA
Thesis:
Green Synthesis of Silicon Nanoparticles (SiNP) Extracted from Sugarcane Bagasse Ash (SCBA) with Novel Application in Sustainable and Cost-Effective Dye-Sensitized Solar Cells (DSSCs)
Description:
This research advances solar energy technologies using biowaste-derived green nanomaterials to generate sustainable power for portable devices at lower costs. It successfully employed Electron-Beam Physical Vapor Deposition to develop nanostructured biogenic silicon thin films, a promising semiconductor. The study compared two methods for synthesising biogenic silicon from sugarcane bagasse ash and explored its application in dye-sensitized solar cells. Mr. Lyle’s work produced five manuscripts—two published, two under review, and one in progress. His dedication and innovation enabled his transition from MSc to PhD.
TRONIC SITHOLE
Department: STATISTICS AND POPULATION STUDIES
Supervisor: PROF S APPUNNI
Thesis:
Examining the mortality rate due to teenage pregnancy in South Africa
Description:
Tronic Sithole’s thesis focused on examining mortality rates associated with teenage pregnancy in South Africa, addressing a critical public health issue aligned with international priorities. By utilizing both primary and secondary data, the study provides valuable insights into teenage pregnancy-related maternal mortality, making a significant contribution to the field of adolescent reproductive health. The research is important, innovative, and impactful, providing evidence to guide policies and improve healthcare services for adolescents. The study provides a strong basis for understanding and reducing maternal deaths among teenage mothers, contributing to efforts to improve maternal health outcomes in South Africa.
FACULTY OF NATURAL SCIENCES
DOCTOR’S DEGREES DOCTOR OF PHILOSOPHY
OLUSOLA IFEDOLAPO WATTI
Department: CHEMISTRY
Supervisor: PROF T MABUSELA
Thesis:
Natural product chemistry and antidiabetic properties of selected South African plants
Description:
The popular use of traditional medicines is a good enough reason for continued investigation into their chemical composition, as this is always closely associated with the health benefits attributed to the relevant medicinal plants. Olusola’s thesis describes results of work performed on 3 plant species, viz., Dicerothamnus rhinocerotis, Euryops abrotanifolius and Artemisia afra. From the 3 species, 12 compounds were isolated, and among these three of them showed inhibition against the alpha-glucosidase enzyme, suggesting possible anti-diabetic properties. There were also some compounds and extracts which demonstrated inhibition against skin hyperpigmentation, which make them useful candidates for cosmetic applications.
LUKE SHAND ZONDAGH
SCHOOL OF PHARMACY
Supervisor: PROF J JOUBERT
Co-supervisors: PROF S MALAN, PROF D FISHER
Thesis:
Design, synthesis and biological evaluation of edaravone derivatives bearing the N-benzyl pyridinium moiety as multifunctional anti-Alzheimer’s agents
Description:
Luke Zondagh’s doctoral research focused on developing edaravone-N-benzyl pyridinium derivatives as multifunctional drug candidates for Alzheimer’s disease. Using a multi-targetdirected ligand strategy, these compounds inhibit acetylcholinesterase and BACE-1, while offering antioxidant and neuroprotective effects. The lead compound showed strong dualsite AChE inhibition, reduced A aggregation, and neuroprotection in vitro. In silico and kinetic studies supported favourable blood-brain barrier penetration. His work advances rational drug design for neurodegenerative disorders.
FACULTY OF ARTS AND HUMANITIES
MASTER’S DEGREES 2025
MASTER OF ARTS
SILETILE BERNIZE
Thesis:
Meaning of place: A case study of male Congolese migrants creating a sense of belonging through barbershops in Wesbank township
Department: SOCIOLOGY
Supervisor: PROF E MAYEZA
LAKAY TAMMY-LEE
Thesis:
SPEAK Magazine: The Gender Dimensions and Impacts of the Work of the South African Committee for Higher Education (SACHED), 1982-1994
Department: HISTORICAL STUDIES
Supervisor: PROF K BENSON
WITBOOI BRONWYN
Thesis:
Re-imagining pedagogy in higher education: Facilitating epistemic access and student success
Department: LINGUISTICS
Supervisor: PROF Z BOCK
Co-supervisor: DR M VAN HEERDEN
FACULTY OF ECONOMIC AND MANAGEMENT SCIENCES
MASTER’S
DEGREES
MASTER OF DEVELOPMENT STUDIES
SINTU SANDA
Cum Laude
Thesis:
Community perceptions on the impact of education on poverty reduction in the Vrededorp municipality, Gauteng
INSTITUTE FOR SOCIAL DEVELOPMENT
Supervisor: DR G TAWODZERA
FACULTY OF NATURAL SCIENCES
MASTER’S DEGREES 2025
MASTER OF CLINICAL PHARMACY
YIP COURTNEY RACHEL
Thesis:
Evaluating the Prognostic Value of Risk Factors Contributing to Cardiovascular Disease and Established Risk Score Estimations
SCHOOL OF PHARMACY
Supervisor: PROF K OBIKEZE
Co-supervisor: DR E UPTON
MASTER OF PHILOSOPHY IN POPULATION STUDIES
FENI YONWABA
Cum Laude
Thesis:
The demographic aspects of women’s access to delivery services in Sierra Leone: insights from the Sierra Leone Demographic and Health Survey 2019
Department: STATISTICS AND POPULATION STUDIES
Supervisor: DR P NSENGIYUMVA
MOLOI PALESA PATIENCE
Magna Cum Laude
Thesis:
The determinants of postnatal health check among mothers in Sierra Leone: evidence from SLDHS 2019
Department: STATISTICS AND POPULATION STUDIES
Supervisor: DR P NSENGIYUMVA
MASTER OF SCIENCE IN ENVIRONMENT AND WATER SCIENCE
CHAUDHARY PREANNA
Cum Laude
Thesis:
Groundwater numerical modelling for coupled hydrogeological – geochemistry analysis in an open pit mine of the Kalahari Manganese belt
Department: EARTH SCIENCE
Supervisor: PROF N JOVANOVIC
Co-supervisor: MR M MURESAN
TAHLEHO STEPHEN
Thesis:
A genetic geomorphic classification and inventory of palustrine wetlands in Sehlabathebe National Park
Department: EARTH SCIENCE
Supervisor: PROF M GRENFELL
MPAPA
FACULTY OF NATURAL SCIENCES
MASTER’S DEGREES
MASTER OF SCIENCE IN ENVIRONMENT AND WATER SCIENCE
MUDAU TAKALANI CICILIA
Magna Cum Laude
Thesis:
Impact of wastewater treatment works discharges on surface water quality in Emalahleni Local Municipality, Mpumalanga Province
Department: EARTH SCIENCE
Supervisor: PROF N JOVANOVIC
SHIKA SEEMOLE SERGIO
Thesis:
Performance assessment of solarpowered groundwater pumping systems in rural areas of Greater Giyani Municipality (Limpopo, South Africa)
Department: EARTH SCIENCE
Supervisor: PROF N JOVANOVIC
PLATO ERIN LEIGH
Summa Cum Laude
Thesis:
Modelling the long-term salinization of the Cape Flats Aquifer in the Philippi Horticultural Area
Department: EARTH SCIENCE
Supervisor: PROF N JOVANOVIC
MASTER OF SCIENCE IN NANOSCIENCE
CLOETE ROCHIDA ANNIQUE
Thesis:
Quantum Dot Functionalised Electrochemical Aptasensing of SARSCov-2 Antigens
Department: CHEMISTRY
Supervisor: DR K POKPAS
Co-supervisors: DR C CUPIDO, PROF M JAHED
HOFFMAN RAUDINE ANGELA
Thesis:
Effect of Nanoparticles on azole-resistant Candida species
Department: MEDICAL BIOSCIENCES
Supervisor: PROF C AFRICA
FACULTY OF NATURAL SCIENCES
MASTER’S DEGREES 2025
MASTER OF SCIENCE IN NANOSCIENCE
LESCH ROBYN
Thesis:
Green Synthesis of Graphene: Sustainable Nanomaterial Production from Agricultural Biomass
Department: CHEMISTRY
Supervisor: PROF L KHOTSENG
Co-supervisor: DR N SEROKA
MPUPA ZANELE ZANDILE
Thesis:
Structural and thermodynamic properties of Tb2Ni2X (X=Al, Ga)
Department: PHYSICS AND ASTRONOMY
Supervisor: PROF M TCHOKONTE
TCHOULA
Co-supervisor: PROF B SONDEZI
Thesis:
Green synthesis and antibacterial studies of saponin-mediated silver nanoparticles using resin extracts of the Commiphora myrrha medicinal plant
Department: CHEMISTRY
Supervisor: PROF T MABUSELA
Co-supervisor: PROF M ONANI
TSHISANO KAMOGELO MAUREEN Cum Laude
Thesis:
Metal recovery from battery waste using electrospun functionalised nanofibers
Department: CHEMISTRY
Supervisor: PROF B BLADERGROEN
Co-supervisors: PROF L PETRIK, DR P OMONIYI
MASTER OF SCIENCE IN PHARMACEUTICAL SCIENCES
DLOZI PRINCE NGQABUTHO
Thesis:
Synthesis and characterisation of vitamin D3 nanoparticles as antimicrobial peptide inducing agents
SCHOOL OF PHARMACY
Supervisor: PROF A DUBE
Co-supervisor: PROF S KHOZA
GILLIAN FENNESSY-YON GILLIAN Summa Cum Laude
Thesis:
Solid State Crystalline Compounds of Racemic and R-Baclofen
SCHOOL OF PHARMACY
Supervisor: PROF D BEUKES
Co-supervisors: PROF E ANTUNES BEUKES, PROF N BATHORI
MAAKE MANKOPANE NGOAKO
FACULTY OF NATURAL SCIENCES
MASTER’S DEGREES
MASTER OF SCIENCE IN PHARMACEUTICAL SCIENCES
MAHUNDLA VUKONA VENNESA
Thesis:
Hybrid Isoniazid derivatives for enhanced formulation
SCHOOL OF PHARMACY
Supervisor: PROF H SAMSODIEN
Co-supervisor: PROF M AUCAMP
MUTETWA MUNOPAISHE
Thesis:
Synthesis and evaluation of pyrazinoic acid loaded polymeric nanoparticles for the treatment of tuberculosis
SCHOOL OF PHARMACY
Supervisor: PROF A DUBE
Co-supervisor: DR E KAPP
VAN NIEKERK LARA
Thesis:
The effect of dolutegravir-based antiretroviral therapy on the body weight of HIV-infected adult female patients
SCHOOL OF PHARMACY
Supervisor: PROF M VILJOEN
MASTER OF SCIENCE IN BIOTECHNOLOGY
BROPHY ZHYTOENIESA
Thesis:
Development of individualised drug therapy for diabetes and hypertension for patients from the Cape admixed population
Department: BIOTECHNOLOGY
Supervisor: PROF M BENJEDDOU
Co-supervisor: DR C MASILELA
HOLMAN DARIN EDWARD
Magna Cum Laude
Thesis:
Elucidating pathogenicity mechanisms of Pantoea agglomerans R6 with Ethyl Methanesulfonate-mutagenesis in Brassica napus
Department: BIOTECHNOLOGY
Supervisor: PROF M KEYSTER
Co-supervisor: PROF A KLEIN
FACULTY OF NATURAL SCIENCES
MASTER’S DEGREES 2025
MASTER OF SCIENCE IN BIOTECHNOLOGY
SMITH ENRIQUAY
Magna Cum Laude
Thesis:
Biological control potential of Paenibacillus terrae against Fusarium proliferatum in maize
Department: BIOTECHNOLOGY
Supervisor: PROF A KLEIN
Co-supervisors: PROF M KEYSTER, DR A DANIEL
MASTER OF SCIENCE IN MEDICAL BIOSCIENCE
MARTIN MAHMOODA
Cum Laude
Thesis:
Exploring the influence of nutrition and mobilisation on the skeletal muscle catabolic pathways of patients admitted to the intensive care unit
Department: MEDICAL BIOSCIENCES
Supervisor: PROF T KOHN
Co-supervisor: MRS L VELDSMAN
MOHLALA KUTULLO
Magna Cum Laude
Thesis:
Effects of aqueous leaf extract of Moringa oleifera on oxidative damage induced by hydrogen peroxide in TM3 Leydig cells in vitro
Department: MEDICAL BIOSCIENCES
Supervisor: DR C OPUWARI
Co-supervisor: DR U OFFOR
MESSEIR ILZE
Thesis: Aggregatibacter actinomycetemcomitans serotypes in gingival crevicular fluid of mothers delivering preterm
Department: MEDICAL BIOSCIENCES
Supervisor: PROF C AFRICA
Co-supervisor: DR T MORRIS
MONAGENG ELIZABETH
Thesis: In vitro effects of Aspalathus linearis (rooibos) on TM3 Leydig cells following the induction of oxidative stress with hydrogen peroxide
Department: MEDICAL BIOSCIENCES
Supervisor: DR C OPUWARI
Co-supervisor: DR U OFFOR
FACULTY OF NATURAL SCIENCES
MASTER’S DEGREES
MASTER OF SCIENCE IN CHEMICAL SCIENCES
MATTHEWS TATUM
Magna Cum Laude
Thesis:
Green and facile synthesis of Santa Barbara Amorphous-15 (SBA-15) from biomass-derived silica for the conversion of waste bio-oil to biodiesel
Department: CHEMISTRY
Supervisor: PROF L KHOTSENG
Co-supervisor: DR N SEROKA
PESULO SANDY
Thesis:
Nano-structured silicon carbide anode material derived from sugarcane bagasse for lithium-ion batteries
Department: CHEMISTRY
Supervisor: PROF L KHOTSENG
Co-supervisors: DR N SEROKA, DR N KHESWA
MCETYWA ZOLELA
Magna Cum Laude
Thesis:
Developing a water test strip for select chemical assaying of contaminants in water sources
Department: CHEMISTRY
Supervisor: DR K POKPAS
Co-supervisors: PROF L PETRIK, PROF C SHERIDAN
MASTER OF SCIENCE IN BIODIVERSITY AND CONSERVATION BIOLOGY
GROOTBOOM CLAIRE CAVEL
Thesis:
Assessing the impact of grazing lawns on soil mite and plant species diversity at the Bontebok National Park
Department: BIODIVERSITY AND CONSERVATION BIOLOGY
Supervisor: PROF A ENGELBRECHT
Co-supervisor: DR M SAMUELS
ISAACS RASHEEQA
Thesis:
Systematics of Ursinia subgenus Sphenogyne (Ursiniinae, Anthemideae, Asteraceae)
Department: BIODIVERSITY AND CONSERVATION BIOLOGY
Supervisor: PROF J BOATWRIGHT
Co-supervisor: DR A MAGEE
FACULTY OF NATURAL SCIENCES
MASTER’S DEGREES
MASTER OF SCIENCE IN BIODIVERSITY AND CONSERVATION BIOLOGY
JAMALIE TAURIQ
Thesis:
Poisonous plant patches in the arid rangelands of Namaqualand, South Africa: implications for biodiversity and landscape heterogeneity
Department: BIODIVERSITY AND CONSERVATION BIOLOGY
Supervisor: PROF A ENGELBRECHT
Co-supervisors: PROF T DUBE , MR C CUPIDO, DR M SAMUELS
ROSSOUW DEON
Thesis:
Quantifying impact and effectiveness of bark spot spray application of herbicide by helicopter on invasive alien pine trees and its collateral damage to indigenous vegetation
Department: BIODIVERSITY AND CONSERVATION BIOLOGY
Supervisor: PROF G MANEVELDT
Co-supervisor: PROF K ESLER
LANDSBERG CARLIN VERNA
Thesis: Zooplankton in and around South African kelp forests: community structure in relation to upwelling cycle
Department: BIODIVERSITY AND CONSERVATION BIOLOGY
Supervisor: PROF A SMIT
Co-supervisor: DR D DYER
VELANI NOPINKY
Thesis: Systematic studies of the genera Lobostemon and Echiostachys (Boraginaceae, Boraginoideae, Lithospermeae, Echiinae)
Department: BIODIVERSITY AND CONSERVATION BIOLOGY
Supervisor: PROF J BOATWRIGHT
Co-supervisors: DR A MAGEE, DR K FRANKIEWICZ
FACULTY OF NATURAL SCIENCES
MASTER’S DEGREES
MASTER OF SCIENCE IN COMPUTER SCIENCE
OKINGA KOUMOU KESSEL
Magna Cum Laude
Thesis:
Research Asset Management System for Promoting Collaboration using PublishSubscribe and Immersive Technology
Department: COMPUTER SCIENCE
Supervisor: DR O ISAFIADE
Co-supervisor: DR R KOTZE
MZEMBEGWA TAKUDZWA SIKUMBUZO
Thesis:
Advanced Computational Techniques for Pipe Burst Detection and Localisation in Water Distribution Networks
Department: BIODIVERSITY AND CONSERVATION BIOLOGY
Supervisor: COMPUTER SCIENCE
Co-supervisor: DR C NYIRENDA
MASTER OF SCIENCE IN MATHEMATICAL SCIENCE
RANDALL JESSICA
Thesis:
Persistent Homology and the Application of Topological Data Analysis to Astronomical Data
Department: MATHEMATICS
Supervisor: PROF D HOLGATE
THEKHWE MARRY
Thesis: Evaluation of computational fluid-structure interaction approaches based on OpenFOAM
Department: MATHEMATICS
Supervisor: DR R SULIMAN
FACULTY OF NATURAL SCIENCES
MASTER’S DEGREES 2025
MASTER OF SCIENCE IN PHARMACY ADMINISTRATION AND POLICY REGULATION
ATUMANYA MULERA AMOS
Thesis:
Assessment of access to drugs through the distribution of drug outlets in Uganda
SCHOOL OF PHARMACY
Supervisor: PROF S KHOZA
Thesis:
Situation Analysis of the Medicines Pricing in Context of the National Medicines Policy of Namibia
SCHOOL OF PHARMACY
Supervisor: PROF S EGIEYEH
PATEL HASEENA MOHAMED AHMED
Thesis:
Improving access to chronic medicines through a last kilometre medicine delivery service in low-income communities: A case study from Cape Town, South Africa
SCHOOL OF PHARMACY
Supervisor: DR M VAN HUYSSTEEN
Co-supervisor: PROF A BHEEKIE
MALOISANE REBECCA
Thesis:
The Transition of Regulatory Services from the Drug Regulatory Unit to Botswana Medicines Regulatory Authority: An evaluation of the changes in regulatory services from the industry’s perspective
SCHOOL OF PHARMACY
Supervisor: PROF S EGIEYEH
Co-supervisor: DR L GWAZA
NTSOHI MANTI
Thesis:
Exploration of the current health policies regulating medical cannabis in Lesotho in relation to stringent international regulatory standards
SCHOOL OF PHARMACY
Supervisor: DR N EBRAHIM
THEUNISSEN TANÉ
Thesis: Dispensing errors in the course of dispensing practices of pharmacy personnel in the Western Cape, South Africa with the impact of medicine artwork as a primary endpoint
SCHOOL OF PHARMACY
Supervisor: PROF M AUCAMP
NAMBAHU FRANSINA NETUMBO
FACULTY OF NATURAL SCIENCES
HONOURS’ DEGREES
BACHELOR OF SCIENCE HONOURS
MANONA LINDA LESKA
BACHELOR OF SCIENCE HONOURS IN BIODIVERSITY AND CONSERVATION BIOLOGY
ARENDSE JORDAN KELSEY
BOOYSEN MARGO
BUTHELEZI SIYANDA
CLAASSEN CHANE
DEYZEL MIEKE
DLAKAVU SOMILA
DU PLESSIS ZOE ZITA HAIMANN SIMON
ISAACS JANELLE TIFFANY
JOUBERT YUSRA
KAPA PIKOLOMZI MOSES
KUMALO SIPHESIHLE SIMPHIWE
LANGEVELD KISHA AVRIL
LUCAS SHANE
MECK CHLOË KAYLA
MFAKU ZIZIPHO
MNYANDU NOMFUNDO SAMKELO
UBISI PRINCE
VOLOFU ONGEZWA
BACHELOR OF SCIENCE HONOURS IN CHEMISTRY
ABRAMS JAYDEN DANIEL
ADAMS CHANTE
AUGUSTINE YORKE SETH
BAMBO JOSHUA JOHN
CEKISO SINAWO
DAVANI SIVENATHI
FELENI GWIBAKAZI ABENA
HASSAN EJAAZ AHMED
ISAACS BESHARA SANDRA
MABUNDA BLESSING
MABUZA LUYANDA SMILE
MAJA ANATHI
MAROALE MAPHELA PATRONELA
MEYER MOGAMAT AASIF
MULAUDJI KGWADU PERCY
SMALL TONY
SNYMAN BRITHNEY JOY
FACULTY OF NATURAL SCIENCES
HONOURS’ DEGREES
BACHELOR OF SCIENCE HONOURS IN MATHEMATICS
BOBO CWENGILE
BOOYSEN TAMMI LEIGH
HLAKA LESIBA JOHANNES
MAKEMBELE CHERUBIN
MATHIBELA MOFOKA REBUSEDITSOE
MTHOMBENI SIZOLWETHU
QUSHU ASENATHI
ZUZILE BAXOLELE
BACHELOR OF SCIENCE HONOURS IN PHYSICAL SCIENCE
APRIL GENEVA
ATHI BHILINGA
KABYARE GANINSHUTI PIERRE DAMIEN
KIEWIETS XAVIER TYRESE
MAKGATLE KATLEGO
SHABALALA MFUNDO NATHI
TOLE SEKHONA
BACHELOR OF SCIENCE HONOURS IN POPULATION STUDIES
DLAMINI FRANK XOLANI
MAKHATHINI OLWETHU
MASEKO QHAMANI
PETER SIBONGISIWE
RIGALA ANDISIWA MILLICENT
RINQUEST NINA CARLA
SALIE NAIM
SAMPSON ASHEEQAH
BACHELOR OF SCIENCE HONOURS IN STATISTICAL SCIENCE
AMOBI CHINENYE
THERESA
BULANNGA ROFHIWA
DIMPHO MAMPURU
GQWABE LIHLE
JOJA SIBABALO
JOUEMO SEMEGNI VANICK WILFRIED
KOLWENI ONGEZIWE
LOQO ZEZETHU
MAEPA THABO GIFT
MAGUDULELA SIPHOKUHLE
MALATJI KEFENTSE
MAPHANGA MAKHOSINI
MDALI LUSANI
MJALI NYAMELA
MKHWANAZI JOHANNAH
MOKOENA TSHEGOFATSO
MTAMZELI KHANYA
MYATAZA MMANGALISO
NOTYAWA MANDLONKE
RAMBAU TSIRELEDZO
XOLO VUYOLWETHU
FACULTY OF NATURAL SCIENCES
DIPLOMAS
POSTGRADUATE DIPLOMA IN INTEGRATED WATER RESOURCE MANAGEMENT
GEORGE CAITLIN
JONGINAMBA UNATHI PORTIA
MANCHIDI DOUGLAS OBAKENG
MBENA SIVUYILE ALFRED
FREDDY
MTHOMBENI
NKATEKO ROSWIN
NCANYWA MENZI
NOBETSIKI ANELE
PAYIYA SHARON SINAWO
SIBANYONI PATIENCE
NOMTHANDAZO
TANDAMISA BULELWA ELSIE
FACULTY OF NATURAL SCIENCES
BACHELOR OF PHARMACY
BARRY EMMA
Cum Laude
CHRISTODOULOU ANNA-LUCIA
Cum Laude
POMDO AVIWE
Cum Laude
THERON LAUREN THERESE
Cum Laude
ZALGAONKIR MOHAMED
Cum Laude GHAZALI ASHRAF
ABBAS MOHAMMED
NAWEEB
ABRAHAMS RAYLENE ANDREA
ADAMS ANDREA
AKOONJEE MUHAMMED
AZHAR
ALI MUHAMMAD
AZHAR
BADAT MAARIA
BELEMU NTHAMBELENI
CONFIDENCE
CASSIEM SARAH BIBI
CHIKAVHANGA BRENDA
TINOTENDA
CHIKTAY NAAZNEEN
DANDEKAR KASAM
DAVIES ERIN
DE BOER KEEGAN KYLE
ENGELBRECHT GARTH MAXWELL
EZEONWUKA JACINTA CHIOMA
CHIKA
FIRFIRAY MASROOR
MUSHTAK
GAMIELDIEN AMMAAR
GHISLAINE BARYIGENERE
HOFSTA ETHAN DANIEL
HOOSEN KHAN MUBASHIR
HUMAN LIZELLE CECELIA
IKUZO IRENEE ADRIEN
KABINI MBALI
KADER AMMAARAH
KATHREE SAWLEHA
KHOLISILE MONICA
KHULAKADE SINALO
KHUMALO ANELE NOMFUNDO
KHUNDAYI THANDOKAZI INGA
KHUZWAYO LUBANZI
LETHAMAGA NGWATO MOKEBJANE
MABIDI TSHEDZA CHARLOTTE
MAHOMED EBRAHIM
MAHOMED MAHOMED YASEEN
MAJID MUHAMMED RAYHAAN
MAKAPELA SIBULELE
MANUEL ISRA
MATHEBULA HLAYISANI
MDLALOSE SAKHIWE
MENYANE LISA JOHNNIE
MJILA YONELA
MKHIZE LWESIPHO YVETTE
MOEKETSI KENEILWE
MOFOKENG SEIPATI ANTONNET
MOKGAPA KHOMOTSHO MABURE
MTAMBEKA THIMNA
MTHAMZELI SILINDOKUHLE ANASTATIA
MTHEMBU STHEMBISO JOY
NJABULO
FACULTY OF NATURAL SCIENCES
UNDERGRADUATE DEGREES
BACHELOR OF PHARMACY
MUDAU MUTSHEKWA
MUNASI JUDITH VELE
MYATAZA OTHEMBA
MYENI THOBEKA
MZONDO HLUMISA ZIPOZIHLE
NAIDOO MISHKA
NAIDOO TERINE ANDREA
NCUBE NATALIE
NDAYISABA GILBERT
NDLOVU IVIWE
NGALO SIHLE
NJILO ASAKHE
NKOSI NGWANE KARABO
NKOSI NONDUMISO BELVIA
NKWAGATSE TAETSO
NOGOBELA ZIKHONA ONELE
NOGQAME ASANDA
NOMKHONWANA AYABULELA
NONGCIYA VUYOLWETHU
NTAMO ZOLANI NICHOLAS
NTULI SBONGAKONKE
MISIZWE ZOTHANI
NXUSANI TEMBISA
OMARJEE MUHAMMED RIAZ
PETERSEN JAMIE SHERELL
RAMLALL KAILA
RATSEKE PHELADI MABATLENG
SAKWE SISEKO
SIDULI ZENANDE
SONTSELE NOMXOLISI
SWANA PHIWE TAPILE LUNGANI
FACULTY OF NATURAL SCIENCES
BACHELOR OF SCIENCE IN BIODIVERSITY AND CONSERVATION BIOLOGY
DIENER LILITH EMMA JOLANTHE
Magna Cum Laude
DAVIDS MUHAMMAD UZAIR
Cum Laude
BAILEY COURTNEY
CENGIMBO AKHO PHUMELELA
CLOETE TAMIA MISHKA
CORNELIUS ADIELA
DAVIDS NATHEERAH
DINTHE CHRISTIE-ANN
FORTUIN MEICKHE
JACK MOEGAMAD UZAIR
JACOBS ATHRAA
JACOBS ERIN CAITLIN
JOHANNES SHANON TASH-LEIGH
KAMALIE MALIKAH
KUNENE THUBELIHLE AYANDA
MABOTJA KAMOGELO
MAKGOSA PHETOLO LOVENESS
MARAIS LAYLA EMRE
MAY KOEBRA
MOKGOSI GOSEGO MOKGOSI
MPOFU LUNGA MTHAKAZELI
MTITSHANA LUMANYANO BUKHO
MUFAMADI ADIVHAHO SHANTEL
MUNESAMY TAMARA
NDLHOVU HLANHLA CALVIN
NGALO ZOSULIWE
NGWENYA SIFISO SHANE
NOKELE MLIBO
NOSI HLOHONOLOFATSO
NTSHINGILA THABISILE
RAPHELA MARIA MOKGAGA LETHABO
RISPEL DAVID
RUTLOKOANE PHEMELO MOJALEFA
RYKLIEF MOGAMAT UZAIR
SEBOTSANE KEITUMETSE
SPECKMAN JAYDONESCIA RUTH
THEODOSIA
VERON ALYSSA JADE
FACULTY OF NATURAL SCIENCES
UNDERGRADUATE DEGREES
BACHELOR OF SCIENCE IN CHEMICAL SCIENCES
MNCUBE LWANDISWA
MENZIWOTHANDO
Magna Cum Laude
ABRAHAMS MAWHADA
BOOYSEN VINNEKE
CHETTY CALEN JUDE
JULIES JADE
MAGAGULA THEMBA CALVIN
MATSWAKA MATAPE
MESULI NKOHLA
MOHALE MOROATSHEHLA
MOHLARHI ALICIA XILUVA
MPUMELA QAQAMBA
MTYHWASHELE ZIMKHITHA
NGOBENI RHULANI
NJOKO SIPHOKUHLE
SAMSON MATTHEW
SCHOEMAN SETH
SENTLE LINDIWE
SIBINDI OLWETHU
SOTHUKO KARABO
SULLIMAN BASHEERAH
VAN ZYL JACO
FACULTY OF NATURAL SCIENCES
BACHELOR OF SCIENCE IN ENVIRONMENTAL AND WATER SCIENCE
TOGU KAMVA
Magna Cum Laude
CETYANA THOBELA ONGISA
Cum Laude
MANTEKWANE DIMPHO
Cum Laude
NGCOBO ALWANDE BULELWA
Cum Laude
NTSOANE DIKANEGO
Cum Laude
ABRAHAMS BAADIYAH
BISSETT KWAKHO
BOTSHELO RESEGO
DLELAPANTSI KAMVALETHU
EBRAHIM AMEERAH
GOLLIAT GEORGIA AMY
GUGUSHE SEIPATI
GWANTSHU SINALO
LELAKA KARABO
MABUNDA KHATI VINCENTIA
MATHIBELA THANDEKA VERONICAH
MHLABA LWANDILE
MPEMNYAMA LIYABONA
MPENGESI LISAKHANYA
MSOMI NALEDI AWANDE
MTSHILITA ASEMAHLE
MZIMBA SYABONGA
NAKASA YIVA SIKELELA
NGQONGWENI SIMPHIWE
NKOSEPHAYO SHABANGU
NONTYI JEHTRO
NZIMANDE SITHEMBILE
PHUZI KWETSIMA ANISTACIA
REINECKE KIM HAYLEY
SECHEMANE NEO
SIBALI APHELELE
SIMON LARA MARJORIE
SITHOLE CHUMA
SIZANI IVIWE
TCHEBAYOU KEANU FUNE
TORO ATLEHANG
FACULTY OF NATURAL SCIENCES
UNDERGRADUATE DEGREES
BACHELOR OF SCIENCE IN MATHEMATICS AND STATISTICAL SCIENCES
MKHARI DUNCAN
Cum Laude
MOKOENA MAHLATSE CJ
Cum Laude
AREND IMAAN
BREAKFAST ATHENKOSI AFIKILE
CHOI DUKYUNG
DLWENGU THEMBINKOSI
FAKUDE SKHULILE
GAMIELDIEN MOGAMAD IGHSAAN
MACHILI NTUMELENG
MADI MIMI
MAGCABA MQONDISI
MANZINI BUSI
SEBOLA RENEILWE KIRSTEN
SELOKELA KGAOGELO ELVIS
SEWPAUL VIROSHEN
SKUPELA LINDILE
SKWEYIYA MANDISA
FACULTY OF NATURAL SCIENCES
BACHELOR OF SCIENCE IN PHYSICAL SCIENCE
PETERSEN MOEGAMAT ANEES
Cum Laude
LETSOHA MATSHIDISO
MAKWELA MOORANE
MATSEKE MPHO GIFT
MOHLOMI NEO
MZILENI SONGEZO
NAKETSANA TOPOLLO
NOTYESI LULUTHO INGA
NTLATLENG ALBERT KAMOGELO
RAMAILA LESEGO SHAUN
SOCAMANGASHE YAMKELANI
SOKWELETI SIYABULELA
TIMM MONIQUE RAELENE
TSOSANI PALISA OCTAVIA
ZUMA MNQOBI
HONORARY DEGREE AWARDEES
1983
S. Motsuenyane, Doctor Commercii
M.C. O’Dowd, Doctor Commercii
1984
E. Theron, Doctor Legum
1987
B. Breytenbach, Doctor Litterarum
R.E. van de Ross, Doctor Educationis
1989
J.C. de Villiers, Doctor Scientiae
G.A.M. Mbeki, Doctor Philosophiae
1990
N.R. Mandela, Doctor Legum
O.R. Tambo, Doctor Legum
1991
R.E. Alexander, Doctor Commercii
G.S. Machel, Doctor Legum
D. Mitterand, Doctor Litterarum
D. Zihlangu, Doctor Educationis
1993
G. Boonzaaier, Doctor Litterarum
B. Head, Doctor Litterarum (posthumous)
A. Ibrahim, Doctor Litterarum
E. Mancoba, Doctor Litterarum
1995
G.J. Gerwel, Doctor Educationis
P.M. Sonn, Doctor Legum
1996
G.H. Brundtland, Doctor Legum
T.N. Chapman, Doctor Commercii
J.J.F. Durand, Doctor Philosophiae
P. Gorvalla, Doctor Commercii
HEADER SUB-HEADER
1997
B. Davidson, Doctor Litterarum
E.L. King, Doctor Theologiae
I. Mohamed, Doctor Scientiae
F.B. Naude, Doctor Theologiae
J.N. Scholten, Doctor Legum
R. Turner, Doctor Educationis
1998
J. Derrida, Doctor Litterarum
M. Nuttall, Doctor Theologiae
M.A Oduyoye, Doctor Theologiae
J. Reddy, Doctor Educationis
2001
V.H. Faigle, Doctor Theologiae
G. ‘t Hooft, Doctor Scientiae
P.N. Langa, Doctor Legum
A. Small, Doctor Litterarum
2002
W.H. Gray III, Doctor Philosophiae
C.L.R.Hirschsohn, Doctor Philosophiae
T. Manuel, Doctor Commercii
D. Philip, Doctor Litterarum
M. Philip, Doctor Litterarum
D.M.B. Tutu, Doctor Legum
2003
K. Mokhele, Doctor Scientiae
T. D. Fredericks, Doctor Educationis
P.D. Uys, Doctor Educationis
2004
K. Asmal, Doctor Legum
E. de Keyser, Doctor Commercii
G. Fitzgerald, Doctor Litterarum
A. Omar, Doctor Legum (posthumous)
A. Sachs, Doctor Litterarum
A. Sisulu, Doctor Curationis
W. Sisulu, Doctor Legum (posthumous)
HONORARY DEGREE AWARDEES
2005
A. Achmat, Doctor Philosophiae
C.J Bundy, Doctor Philosophiae
E.K.M. Dido, Doctor Litterarum
T. Jones, Doctor Philosophiae
J. Fagan, Doctor Legum
I. Mahomed, Doctor Legum (posthumous)
2006
F. Ginwala, Doctor Administrationis
2007
E. Abrahams, Doctor Philosophiae
E. Braune, Doctor Philosophiae
A. Chaskalson, Doctor Legum
D. Jordaan, Doctor Philosophiae
R. Kadalie, Doctor Litterarum
P. Mlambo-Ngcuka, Philosophiae Doctor
Y. Mokgoro, Doctor Legum
V.G. Shubin, Doctor Philosophiae
2008
W.E. Morrow, Doctor Educationis
2009
P. Govender, Doctor Legum
2010
A. Adebajo, Doctor Philosophiae
M.S. Dien, Philosophiae Doctor (posthumous)
B.L. Fanaroff, Doctor Philosophiae
P. Olumfemi-Kayode, Doctor Philosophiae
R. Simonsen, Doctor Philosophiae
P.K. Tergat, Doctor Philosophiae
D. Tulu, Doctor Philosophiae
2011
S.B. Biko, Doctor Philosophiae (posthumous)
S.B.A. Isaacs, Doctor Educationis
P. Magrath, Doctor Litterarum
M. Shear, Doctor Philosophiae
M. Temmerman, Doctor Philosophiae
R.B. Wolf, Doctor Philosophiae
2012
B. Gawanas, Doctor Legum
E. Moosa, Doctor Legum
R.E. Reddock, Doctor Philosophiae
H. Shaper, Doctor Philosophiae (posthumous)
A. Sheiham, Doctor Philosophiae
2013
H. Howa, Doctor Philosophiae
T. Jones, Doctor Philosophiae
J. Matthews, Doctor Philosophiae
G. Merino O.P, Doctor Theologiae
2014
A. Haron, Doctor Philosophiae (posthumous)
2015
A. Jedaar, Doctor Philosophiae
2016
H. Adams, Doctor Philosophiae
F. Robertson, Doctor Philosophiae
M. Tsedu, Doctor Philosophiae
2017
M. Lapsley, Doctor Philosophiae
2018
Z Skweyiya, Doctor Philosophiae (posthumous)
2021
Z. Wicomb, Doctor Philosophiae
A.A. Boesak, Doctor Philosophiae
W. Kentridge, (jointly awarded with Vrije Universiteit Brussel and Ghent University)
2022
K.K. Prah, Doctor Philosophiae
I. Sooliman, Doctor Philosophiae
HONORARY DEGREE AWARDEES
SUB-HEADER 1983-2024
2023
C. Hani, Doctor Philosophiae (posthumous)
D.E. Moseneke, Doctor Philosophiae
S.Z. Zotwana, Doctor Philosophiae
2024
M.Y. Choi, Doctor Philosophiae
H. Kummeling, Doctor Philosophiae
C. Pauwels, Doctor Philosophiae (posthumous)
2018
Ebrahim Rhoha
2021
AB Mahomed
Derek Joubert
Peter Takelo
HEADER SUB-HEADER 2018-2024 GOLD MEDALISTS
2022
Sean Patrick Lance
Peter Wilson
Phumzile Mlambo-Ngcuka
2024
Albert Lois Sachs
UWC GRADUATION ATTIRE
MEANING AND SYMBOLISM
HEADER SUB-HEADER
The three proteas symbolise Teaching, Culture and Education.
The stepped pattern represents the steps that lead to the Greek temple. This is the international symbol for academia and our recognition that we are a part of it.
The laurel leaves indicate competition and victory.
The diamond-shaped protea petal represents strength of character, ethics and faithfulness to oneself and others.
The continuous pattern that extends from the front to the back speaks to Respice Prospice, which means to look back, to look forward. Take what is good from the past and build the future.
The beaded effect is meant to reflect African craft and creativity.
The colours that make up the band are derived from those that represent the seven Faculties that make up the University.
CAP Black John Knox cap with silver tassel.
Peony red edged with silver trim.
THE CAP
Black John Knox cap with gold tassel. BACK OF THE YOKE
Black edged with gold trim.
THE SLEEVE
Open sleeves, looped up with gold cord and lined with gold satin.
THE GOWN
Black with full facings of gold and trimmed yoke.
Black John Knox cap with silver tassel.
Black edged with silver trim.
SLEEVE
Open sleeves, looped up with silver cord and lined with empire blue satin.
GOWN
Black with full facings of empire blue.
GRADUATION ATTIRE
AND HOODS GOWN
1 THE GOWN
Black (all degrees, diplomas and certificates, except Doctoral degrees)
Arts and Humanities
Community and Health Sciences
Dentistry
Economic and Management
Sciences
Education
Law
Natural Sciences
THE MOTIF
Black, edged with symbolic print in the Faculty colour.
THE COWL
Trimmed based on the type of qualification being conferred.
THE NECKBAND
The neckband emblazoned with the protea in the Faculty colour.
THE HOOD
Full hood in black.
2
CERTIFICATES AND DIPLOMAS
(NQF LEVEL 5 AND 6)
Black, with gold and blue strips.
GRADUATION ATTIRE
HOODS
3 BACHELORS
(NQF LEVEL 7)
Black, edged with symbolic print in the Faculty colour; the neckband emblazoned with the protea in the Faculty colour.
Degrees: BA, BSc, BCom, BAdmin, BA (SRES), BSc (Complementary Health Sciences), BOH, PGCE
5
ADVANCED BACHELORS
(NQF LEVEL 8)
Black, edged with symbolic print in the Faculty colour and trimmed on the cowl with cord in platinum colour; the neckband emblazoned with the protea in the Faculty colour.
Degrees and Diplomas: All Honours degrees and Postgraduate Diplomas
4
PROFESSIONAL/SENIOR BACHELORS
(NQF LEVEL 8)
Black, edged with symbolic print in the Faculty colour and trimmed on the cowl with cord in gold colour; the neckband emblazoned with the protea in the Faculty colour.
Black, lined with the Faculty colour, edged with symbolic print in the Faculty colour and trimmed on the cowl with cord in the Faculty colour; the neckband emblazoned with the protea in the Faculty colour.
