Graduation Ceremony
Date: 10 December 2024
Time: 14:30
Venue: The Great Hall
A MESSAGE TO GRADUATES FROM THE CHANCELLOR
CONGRATULATIONS! HALALA!
GO LEAD SOUTH AFRICA TO GREATNESS!
A hearty congratulations to the class of 2024! Some of you entered university as the world sank into a global pandemic, COVID-19; some were already pursuing their studies at this world class university, the University of the Witwatersrand. We applaud you for strength of character, grit, and commitment to success.
Our country continues to experience a plethora of challenges that threaten our economic stability and social cohesion, further deepening inequality and hopelessness. It is in this century that, as one of the member states of the UN that approved the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, we intend to eradicate inequality, achieve peace, prosperity, and dignity for all, through partnerships while preserving the planet for future generations. We cannot achieve these lofty ambitions without your wisdom and servant leadership as you embark on your careers.
Your hard work and dedication to achieve your dreams is a true reflection of your resilience and commitment. It is this resilience that makes us confident that you have what it takes to build a better future that is equal and just. History has proven time and again that it is the weakest amongst us that determine our strength as a nation. The highly educated have the responsibility to enlighten and fight for social justice for the marginalised, for the good of humankind.
As you venture into the world, take time to expand the depth and breath of your knowledge. Read outside your specialisation, engage with people outside your comfort zone. Be lifelong learners. Understand the plight of people less fortunate than yourself. Leaders who leave footprints worth emulating, are not only the brightest but also those who take time to learn from others, who are accountable for their actions and omissions, who use what they know and what they have, to make the world a better place. Leaders who care! Those leaders do this consistently with Integrity. May you be those leaders!
CONGRATULATIONS! HALALA! GO LEAD SOUTH AFRICA TO GREATNESS!
Dr Judy Dlamini Chancellor Wits University
A MESSAGE TO GRADUATES FROM THE VICE-CHANCELLOR
AND PRINCIPAL
Dear Wits Graduate,
Congratulations on successfully completing your academic programme at the University of the Witwatersrand, the premier University on the continent.
You are now a member of an elite group of graduates of this august institution. More than 200 000 alumni at the cutting edge of excellence, both locally and internationally in business, the public sector, the academy, and in civil society have trodden this path.
Today, you become a member of this illustrious community. Over the past 100 years, Wits has grown into one of the leading universities on the continent and a globally respected institution for its teaching and learning, knowledge creation and generation, and social impact. It has shaped the lives of many and changed society for good. You are now an integral part of this proud and enduring legacy. Here at Wits, we actively pursue excellence and societal relevance in everything we do. From the abstract to the practical, our focus is on creating a space for the best thought, knowledge, and expertise to be unearthed and nurtured. Wits is renowned for its intellectual leadership and for nurturing critical thinkers, creative innovators, problem-posers, and problem solvers. We have strived to match your ambition and drive to overcome the challenges thrown our way by the pandemic. Together we have reached the crest of the hill and proven, once again that excellence is achievable, even in times of uncertainty and adversity.
Your success has furthered our commitment to equipping the next generation of leaders with the skills and determination that you will need to find innovative and sustainable solutions to the pressing problems of the 21st Century.
As a Wits graduate, you had access to an exceptional educational experience. You have been exposed to a world-class academic and research programme and a vibrant community that makes you a true global citizen. You have been part of an institution that generates cutting-edge knowledge and innovation for South Africa and the world. It is now time for you to step into the world and use that experience, for good. We know that you will enter the next stage of your journey with the determination to build a better society tomorrow. I want to encourage you to remain a part of the Wits family by participating in our alumni programme and by further advancing the reputation of your alma mater.
Best wishes for the next steps of your journey and congratulations on being such a big part of the history of this illustrious institution.
Professor Zeblon Vilakazi, FRS Vice-Chancellor and Principal Wits University
Gaudeamus igitur
Juvenes dum sumus
GAUDEAMUS
Post jucundum juventutem
Post molestam senectutem
Nos habebit humus.
Ubi sunt qui ante nos
In mundo fuere?
Vadite ad superos
Transite in inferos
Hos si vis videre.
Vita nostra brevis est Brevi finietur.
Venit mors velociter
Rapit nos atrociter
Nemini parcetur.
Vivat academia
Vivant professores
Vivat membrum quodlibet
Vivat membra quaelibet
Semper sint in flore.
Vivant omnes virgines
Faciles, formosae.
Vivant et mulieres
Tenerae amabiles
Bonae laboriosae.
Vivant et republica et qui illam regit.
Vivat nostra civitas, Maecenatum caritas
Quae nos hic protegit.
Pereat tristitia, Pereant osores.
Pereat diabolus, Quivis antiburschius
Atque irrisores.
Let us rejoice therefore
While we are young.
After a pleasant youth
After a troublesome old age
The earth will have us.
Where are they
Who were in the world before us?
You may cross over to heaven
You may go to hell If you wish to see them.
Our life is brief
It will be finished shortly.
Death comes quickly Atrociously, it snatches us away. No one is spared.
Long live the academy!
Long live the teachers!
Long live each male student!
Long live each female student!
May they always flourish!
Long live all maidens
Easy and beautiful!
Long live mature women also,
Tender and loveable
And full of good labor.
Long live the State
And the One who rules it!
Long live our City
And the charity of benefactors
Which protects us here!
Let sadness perish!
Let haters perish!
Let the devil perish!
Let whoever is against our school
Who laughs at it, perish!
NATIONAL ANTHEM
Nkosi sikelel’ iAfrika
Maluphakanyisw’ uphondo lwayo,
Yizwa imithandazo yethu, Nkosi sikelela
Thina lusapho lwayo.
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.
The Wits Choir
The Wits Choir has been around since 1995. Their repertoire is colourful and vibrant. They perform regularly at graduations and important ceremonies. The Wits Choir has toured internationally as well as playing host to other choirs here. They are also active in the community, undertaking choral outreach programmes.
ORDEROF PROCEDURE
10DECEMBER2024 AT14:30
Theaudiencewillriseastheacademicprocessionentersthehallandwillremainstandinguntilthe Chancellorisin place
TheChancellorwillconstitutethecongregation
TheChancellorwillwelcomethe graduands,diplomatesandguests
Addressto the congregation
Conferment of degreesand granting ofdiplomas
TheActing Presidentof Convocationwilladdressthe graduatesanddiplomates
TheChancellorwilldissolvethe congregation
Theaudiencewillstandwhile Ihele is played
Membersoftheaudiencearerequestedtostandwhiletheacademicprocessionleavesthehallandnottoleavethe hallbeforethe end oftheceremony.
IMPORTANT NOTICE
Intheeventofload-sheddingorpowercuts,theGreatHallmaybecometotallydarkuntilthegeneratorcomesinto operation.
FACULTYOFCOMMERCE,LAWANDMANAGEMENT
DEAN:PROFESSORJCOHEN BComHonsPhD(Witwatersrand)
MasterofBusinessAdministration
AZIZ,Mahomed Asif
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BAM-MSIMANG,Nomamiyandile Yolanda
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BITTAH,GorgozcynskiOdhambo
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CHELE,MotsiJohn
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CHOENYANA, KagishoMmaseleke
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DAMBA, DikelediLisbeth
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DLAMINI, NoziphoTheodorah
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GALEFOROLWE,Kelebogile
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HARRIS,Candy
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HORONGA,Nyasha
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KGAFELA,Nthabiseng
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LEHUTJO,Tshepo William
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LENAKE,Tshepo
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LETSHOLO, KabeloJohannes
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MABASA,Tiyiselani Innocent
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MALOKA, Karabo
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MALOPE,Comfort Rodney Mathews
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MANTIRISI, Lesedi
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MASERUMULE, Kgadi
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MASHAMBA,Ndamulelo
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MASIPA, Mafolelo Paul
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MATHABA, ThembinkosiRodney
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MATHE, Clive
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MATHOMA, KhuthalaniCurtis
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MATSHWANE, Busisiwe Mwaona
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MAZWI, Babalwa
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MBAMBO, Nondumiso
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MWELI, Sibusisiwe
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NDLOVU,Nondumiso
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NGOBENI, Plossie
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NKABINDE, Sibusiso Welcome
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PERUMAL, Hagandri
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RAMOKGOPA, Lebogang Salome
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RAMOSOEU,LitebohoChristina
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RANTHO,Malekgene
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PROJECT REPORT: Navigating governanceprocessesinIT Startups: a casestudywithinan originalequipment manufacturer(OEM)
SAKOANE,MotshidisiMary-Anne
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SEFALA,Maite
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SIBEKO,Simphiwe Annita
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STELLENBERG,CheryllTheodora
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SWART,Wynand
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TANYANYIWA,OliviaTashinga
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MasterofManagement
ARUNAJALAM, Prema Digital Business RESEARCH REPORT: Therole of digitaltechnologyinsustainingsmall andmedium enterprisesinJohannesburg
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Digital Business RESEARCH REPORT: Digitalizationof servicedeliveryatEkurhuleniMunicipality
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DYOSIBA, SiyabongaJoseph
Digital Business RESEARCH REPORT: Aninvestigationofthesecond-leveldigitaldivideintheSouthAfricaneducationandtraining sector
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Digital Business RESEARCH REPORT: Democratising digitaladvertisingande-commerce in SouthAfrica
FREUND, Amelia (with Distinction)
Innovation Studies RESEARCH REPORT: Digitalinnovationand disruptivepotentialbyFinTechcompanies in South Africa
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ISHWARLAAL, Nikhilia (with Distinction)
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Digital Business RESEARCH REPORT: Theimpactofdigitalleadershipon digitalmaturity:a SouthAfricancasestudy
KAMANGA, EdnaClara
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KHOETHA, Katlego
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KOLOANE,Tshenolo
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KUBHEKA,MduduziSikhosiphi
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MILANZI, Maria-SalomeGaudence
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MINDI,Thulani
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MKHIZE,Basil Nhlanhla
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MKHIZE,PhumeleleWanda
Digital Business RESEARCH REPORT: Thesustainabilityofvideostreamingservicesin South Africa:areview ofdigitalbusiness modelsandstrategies
MNGXADI,MpiloDavid
Digital Business RESEARCH REPORT: Factors influencing the adoptionof financialtechnologysolutionsin South Africa
MODIBA,DalsonNkoana
Digital Business RESEARCH REPORT: Digitaltransformationwithinthepublicsectorcommunicationservice in South Africa
MOKGOKO,KeetseHazel
Digital Business RESEARCH REPORT: Digitalliteracy,perceivedrisk,andpurchaseintentionintheSouthAfricanonlineretailsector
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Innovation Studies RESEARCH REPORT: Indigenousknowledgeandscience,technology and innovation-driven systemsforthe healthcare industryin SouthAfrica
MONYAMANE,Keitumetse Lucy
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MOODLEY, Letitia Anthia
Energy Leadership RESEARCH REPORT: Thesuccessfulimplementationof LNGaggregationformarketdevelopment
MOONSAMY,Ghaneshree
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MOSENOGI,Kgomotso
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MOSIA, Emanuel Mmuelli
Digital Business RESEARCH REPORT: Senior managers'perception oftheirrole infacilitatingdigitaltransformationinthepublic sectorin South Africa
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MZOBE, Snothando
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NDABENI-ABRAHAMS,StellaTembisa
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NEVONDO,ImmanuelMboniseni
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NGOMANE, Danisile
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NJOKWANA,ZukiswaLauretie
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NKWENKWE, Monde Tapelo
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PHENYANE, Siphamandla Sifiso (with Distinction)
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RALEBONA, PhumudzoCeasarine
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Digital Business RESEARCH REPORT: Theuseofsocialmediatodrivethe growth of South Africanbrands
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SIAKAM, Stallone
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SIMELANE,Makhosazana Mbukiso
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SITHOLE, Vulani
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SLOAN,Mark James (with Distinction)
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STEENKAMP, Sherilee
Strategic Marketing RESEARCH REPORT: Animpactofdestinationmarketingandsmarttourismapplicationsontourist'svisitintentions toSouthern Africa
SULIMAN,MohamedAmeen
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TSHUMA,MbongeniNkanyiso
Strategic Marketing RESEARCH REPORT: Facebookreviewsandintentionsto purchase hotelaccommodation in South Africa
WANNENBURG,Faheema
Digital Business RESEARCH REPORT: Digitalonboardingwithin an Earthmovingequipment maintenance organizationinSouth Africa: ablue-collarworker perspective
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Innovation Studies RESEARCH REPORT: Organisationalinnovation managementat thecompaniesand intellectualproperty commission
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Digital Business RESEARCH REPORT: Therole of digitaltechnologiesinenablingsubsistence farminginruralKwaZulu-Natal
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MasterofManagementinEntrepreneurshipandNewVentureCreation
KULA,Phola RESEARCH REPORT: Effectsofdigitaltechnologyadoption for SMEinnovation in South Africa
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WADI, Yaser Majed Saleh RESEARCH REPORT: Motivationsandchallengesin establishing new internationalventures in South Africa
MasterofManagementinFinanceandInvestment
ASAD, BushraZamir RESEARCH REPORT: Thebalance sheet of exchangeratefluctuations inemerging markets
DEEPLAL,Rinhiel (with Distinction) RESEARCH REPORT: Comparative internationalequityportfoliodiversification: aSouth Africaninvestor perspective
GININDA,NhlakaniphoBlessing RESEARCH REPORT: Theeffectofcoalpricevolatilityontheperformanceof South Africancoalmining firms
LUO,Heng (with Distinction) RESEARCH REPORT: CurrencyvolatilitiesofBRICS countries: the impactofcommodityprices,interestratesand geopoliticalrisks
MABUSELA, GailSebopye RESEARCH REPORT: Relationship between smallbusinesssuccessandfinancialmanagementcompetencies amongstAfricanfemale entrepreneurs in South Africa
MAJOZI, VukaniLawrence RESEARCH REPORT: Projectappraisalpractices of South African equityrealestate investmenttrust
MAKHAFOLA,Tebatjo Liveson RESEARCH REPORT: Thedeterminantsoffinancing ofcoal-firedpowerplants
MAKHURA,SediseBoitumelo RESEARCH REPORT: Financialriskincross-border mergersandacquisitionsforSouthern AfricanDevelopment Communitybanks
MALULEKE, VutomiGladness RESEARCH REPORT: Theimpactofcommoditypricefluctuations on investmentstyles
MOLEFE, Thabo RESEARCH REPORT: Forecastingstockprices:doTaylorrulefundamentalsmatter?
MOTAUNG,NalediMolepa RESEARCH REPORT: Performance ofmutualfunds inemerging markets
MPHAHO,Masilo RESEARCH REPORT: DiversificationbenefitsofSAREITsinamixedassetportfolio:onedecadeandapandemic later
NCUBE, MichaelMkululi RESEARCH REPORT: Exchange rateforecasting usinguncoveredreturnparity
RAMPHOKO,LepapaGerard RESEARCH REPORT: Theimpactofcreditriskonfinancialperformanceof commercialbanksin Lesotho
SETLOBOKO,Thabiso RESEARCH REPORT: Predictingsystemicriskusing ArtificialNeuralNetworks
THEKA, EdwardTeddy RESEARCH REPORT: Theeffectofcommoditypricesonexchangerate:acasestudyofSouthernAfricancountries
PostgraduateDiplomainBusinessAdministration
ABDUL, Waseem
BALOYI,Chain Khomotso
BANDA,Dyson Luthando
BOTHA,Natalie
BREFO, BerniceYaa
BROWNLEY, Shennon
BUTHELEZI,LebohangLorraine
BUTHELEZI,MthokozisiTsepo
BUYLE,Jennifer
CAMPBELL-GILLIES, StuartMcLeod
CAMPHER, Quillin Kurt
CEBEKHULU, SilungileThandokuhle
CHEPAPE, MphoGeorge
CHILOANE, Phumeza
DAVIDS,Nushaana
DLAMINI, PhilaniErnest
DUBAZANE,Ndumiso
FORTUNE,Gretchen
GAETSEWE, MmakgotsoLizelle
GOVENDER,Dinolan (with Distinction)
GOVENDER, Keegan
GOVENDER, Sheila
GWEBU,Nomaswazi Kgopotso
HABANA, Basanda
HAUSIKU,Lucia Nepemba
HLATSHWAYO, Heneng Ishmael
HUNIDZARIRA,JohnTawanda
JAYIYA, Xolisa
KALAMBAY, Kennedy Kabasele
KGANAKGA,Clement Moyahabo (with Distinction)
KGOKANE, Kearabetswe Matshidiso
KHOABANE,Sophia
KHOELE, Motsoahare
KHUMALO, Malibongwe Mzamo
KHUMALO,Thembisile
KHUZWAYO,Njabulo
KOKA,Madidimalo
KORANTENG, PromiseNonceba
KOTU,HazelAobakoe
LANGENI, Nande (with Distinction)
LEFI,Tokelo Philimon
LENGWATE, AubreyLucas
LENTSA,Lebogang
MABUNDA,Prayers
MADOKWE, Nam
MAKE,Kutlwano
MANDIWANA,Khodani
MANQELE,Nkosinathi
MANYOKOLE, VusiRobert
MASENAMELA, Boitumelo TawnySelaelo
MASHABA, Abigail
MASHABANE,Nomfundo Bongiwe
MASIA,Bernice Lerato
MASUKU,Mpilo
MATHEBULA,Millicent MmaphutiLesego
MATHER,Bernard Eugene
MATHOMA, MaliganaIsaac (with Distinction)
MATLOU,Rosinah
MATSHAYA, Mukhethwa
MATSHEGO,TshepoDonald
MATSHO, ErensThabiso
MATSHUSA, MulaloFleshiah
MATUKA, Mampheo
MAZIBUKO, CwebileZamangwe
MAZIBUKO,Zanele Adelaide
MBANJWA, PatrickBlessing
MBATHA, Khanyisile
MBATHA, Veli Hector
MBATHA,ZandilePrincess
MDLETSHE,BongaKenneth
MHLANGA,Thamsanqa Adorable
MJALI, Sikulule
MKHWANAZI,Zanele Peggy
MKIZE, Vusumuzi Derrick
MNISI,DumisaniBongani
MOEKETSI, Mohau Jeremiah
MOENG, Lofentse
MOGAECHO, SydneyEric
MOGOPODI,Otsile Pearl
MOGOTSI,ObakengGloria
MOHLABI, MotshedisiGrace
MOILA,Malwela Kenneth
MOKETE,Tefelo Michael
MOKGONYANA,Mahlatse Mpshe
MOKGOTHU,OarabileMojalefa
MOKHELE,Ompha Martha
MOKHOMO,Disemelo Gladys
MOKOENA, PelonomiMolly
MOKOENA, Tumelo Surprise
MOKOMA,TsholanangOmphemetse
MOKWENA,Johanna Matswane
MOLEFI, MalileJulia
MOLOI,IthabelengBlessing
MONGALANE, Bonolo Mahloka
MORAKA,Oratile Paballo
MOTAKE, Nomsa Lucresha
MOTAU,TumeloChristopher
MOTHUPI, MakwidiDorah
MOTSIELOA,Puleng Neo
MOUMAKOE-MODINGWANA,Pheto
MPOFANA, Sifiso Ntuthuko
MQANDA, Akhona
MSIBI,Thabile Prudence
MSIBI,ThulaniCharles
MTHETHWA,ZimtotiGugulethu
MTHOMBENI, Siyabonga Ernest
MTONGANA,NcebakaziNamhla
MUDAU, Khathutshelo Lorraine
MUDAU, Vhutshilo
MUKWEVHO,Thingatshili Victoria
MULLER, CarolFrancis Anthea
MUNZHEDZI,Dakalo Happy
MUSEKWA,Thapelo
MUSHANGO,Simbarashe Moses
MYOYO, Thando
MZIMELA,ZimeleNkosiveleTreasure
NAIDOO,LuveshenRajarathanum
NAKANA, Lebogang Lerato
NALANA,Luvuyo
NDLOTYENI,Ntando
NENE,Buyiswa Cynthia
NENGOBELA,Mulalo
NETILI,TshilidziManuel
NEWTON,Sonia
NGCONGO,Ephraim Mzomhle
NGOEPE,MorokeDaisina
NGWENYA, MphoLefty
NKOSI,FaithKumbirai
NKOSI, Silindile Precious
NKUMANE,JubileeJubindaba
NTOMBELA, Nkululeko Thembinkosi
NXUMALO,Nomvelo
OANYANE,MothupiElias
PADAYCHEE, Sivanessen
PANDELANE,Tebogo
PATHER, Kenan
PHILIP,Stuart Charles
POLORI,Katlego Moipone
PRUSENTE, Athi
RADEBE,Tiisetso Meshack
RADIKARA,MaemoRaymond
RALO,Thulani
RAMALEPA, SandrahMonokwane
ROSELT,Gert Jacobus
SEEMA,Masego Reabetsoe
SEKUKUBA, Karabo Boitshoko
SELEME,MahlatseCollins
SHABALALA,Themba
SHAIKH,Naseemah
SHAMASE,HalalisaniSkhulile
SHANGE,PhiwokuhleJoyfull Njabulo
SHOBA,Thulani
SHONGWE,DumisaniVincent
SIBIYA,Hamilton Scelo
SIBIYA, SijabulileSiphelele
SIKAKANE, Siphumelele Penelope
SIPIKA, Siphithemba
SITHOLE, Bongekile Precious
SKOSANA,Maente
SOKO,Sthembile Beryl Zamawandla
SWARTZ,Shafeeka Saleema
TAMOKAMTCHUEN,SergeArmand
TEMANE, KitchnerLetsholo
THOMPSON,DeanRoland
THURSTON, Shannon
TSAJOA, NeoJoyce
VAN WYK,AntonClifford
VILAKAZI, MakhananiNomathamsanqa
VISSER, ErikFritz
VUKEYA, Eneto Kulani
VUNDLA, KathleenBaba
WOOLLS, Sunny
XULU,NkosinathiHenry
ZONDI,Nkanyiso Dexter
ZULU,Busisiwe
ZULU,FaithNomthandazo
ZWANE,Talent DaisyMarcia
OFFICERSOFTHEUNIVERSITY
Chancellor
DRNJ DLAMINIMBChB(Natal)DOH(Free State)MBA(Witwatersrand)DBL(Unisa)PGCE(Witwatersrand)IEC (Stanford-USA)
Vice-Chancellorand Principal
PROFESSORZ VILAKAZI BSc(Manchester)MScPhD(Witwatersrand)FRS, FAAS, MASSAf
Chairman of Council
MRI SHONGWE BA(Wesleyan)MPhil(Oxford)
Senior Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Academic)
PROFESSOR ROSMAN BA(Witwatersrand)HDipEd BEd(Unisa)MEd PhD(Witwatersrand) MASSAf
DeputyVice-Chancellor (Research andInnovation)
PROFESSOR LMORRIS BSc(Hons)(Witwatersrand)DPhil(Oxford)FRSSAFAAS MASSAf
DeputyVice-Chancellor (SystemsandOperations)
PROFESSOR IRJANDRELLBSc(Eng)GDE PhD(Witwatersrand)IntPE(SA)PrEngFSAAEFSAIEE SMIEEE
DeputyVice-Chancellor (People Developmentand Culture)
PROFESSORGSTEVENSBA(CapeTown)BAPsychHonsMPsych(WesternCape)DLittetPhil(Unisa),MASSAf
Registrar
MSCG CROSLEYBAHDipEd(Witwatersrand)BEd Hons(Unisa)MEd(Witwatersrand)
ChiefFinancialOfficer
MSMMMANYAMACA(SA)BComAccounting(CapeTown)BComptHons(Unisa)BComHonsTaxation(Pretoria) MBA(GIBS)
DeanofStudentAffairs
MRJAPSEPTEMBER BA MPhil (CapeTown)
DEANSOFTHE FACULTIES
FacultyofCommerce,LawandManagement
PROFESSORJCOHEN BComHonsPhD(Witwatersrand)
FacultyofEngineering andtheBuiltEnvironment
PROFESSORT MAJOZIBScEngMScEng(Natal) PhD(UMIST)CEngPrEngFIChemEFAASMASSAfFWISA FSAAE
FacultyofHealthSciences
PROFESSOR SAMADHI MBBCh MMed PhD(Witwatersrand)FCPaeds(SA)MASSAf,RSSAf, TWAS,CBE
FacultyofHumanities
PROFESSOR MMUSEMWA BAHons(Zimbabwe) MA(CapeTown) PhD(Minnesota, USA)MASSAf
FacultyofScience
PROFESSOR NCHETTY BScHons(Natal)MS PhD (U.IllinoisUrbana-Champaign) MASSAf, MSAIP
President of Convocation
MSKMUFAMADI BALLBLLM(Witwatersrand)
FACULTYOFCOMMERCE, LAWANDMANAGEMENT
SituatedintheheartofthemostpowerfuleconomichubontheAfricancontinent,drawingonthebestacademictalent in the region, and connected to the most influential social agents in the country, the Faculty of Commerce, Law and Managementoffersanexcitingandcontemporarysetofstudyprogrammesthatgrapplewiththeeconomicandsocial challengesofourcountry,andtheeconomiesacrosstheglobe.TheFaculty’sacademicprogrammesaimtograduate students who study and specialize in both the technical skills that are driving and shaping modern economies and understanding the social, political and legal implications of these patterns of economic development. The Faculty offers auniqueopportunity tostudyand understand thecomplexdevelopments in the economyandthesocial,legal and economicconsequencesofthesepatterns ofdevelopmentand growth.
TheFacultyconsistsofsixSchools:
• TheMargo Steele School ofAccountancy,
• TheSchoolof BusinessSciences,
• TheSchoolof EconomicsandFinance,
• TheSchoolof Law,
• TheGraduate Schoolof BusinessAdministration(Wits BusinessSchool), and
• TheWits Schoolof Governance
TheFacultyoffers threeundergraduate programmesinCommerce:
1. athree-yearBachelorofCommerce(B.Com),
2. athree-yearBachelorof Accounting Science(B.AccSc),and
3. athree-yearBachelorof EconomicScience(B.EconSc).
Threeundergraduate programmesareoffered inLaw:
1. afour-yearLLBprogrammeasafirstdegreeforstudentswishing tostudylaw
2. a three-year LLB programme for students who hold any prior degree but who have not completed any law subjects,and
3. atwo-year LLBprogramme forstudentswhohold any priordegree who have law asamajorsubject.
At the postgraduate level the Faculty offers a full spectrum of honours degrees, postgraduate diplomas, Masters degreesand Ph.Dprogrammesacrossitssix Schools. The Facultyoffers exciting opportunitiesfor MBAand related qualificationsintheWitsBusinessSchool-themostresearch-productivebusinessschoolinSouthAfrica-andpublic managementanddevelopmentdegreesofferedbytheWitsSchoolofGovernance -theleadingSouthAfricancentre forpublicservicepostgraduatetraining.InadditiontoDoctoraldegrees,MastersdegreesandPostgraduateDiplomas areofferedinCommerce,Accountancy,Economics,Business Science,AppliedDevelopmentEconomicsandPolicy, Law, andManagement.
TheFacultyhasanextensiveofferingofshortcourse and executive education programmes.
Our Faculty has consistently produced among the best results in the final Board examination of the South African Institute of Chartered Accountants (SAICA), our law graduates are sought after by the top legal firms and our economics and business sciences graduates are leaders in corporate management, policymaking, governance and regulatoryinstitutionsinSouthAfrica.
Our researchers are at the cutting edge of global research on, among others, banking and finance, social entrepreneurship, the labour market, macroeconomics, inequality, human rights law, commercial law, constitutional law,informationsystems,governance, publicfinance andhealtheconomics.
The Faculty’s research addresses important social issues such as climate change, digital transformation, inequality, and governance and democracy. The Faculty is home to the Southern Centre for Inequality Studies (SCIS), our SchoolofLawholdstheClaudeLeonFoundationChairinEarthJusticeandStewardshipandtheNRFSARChIChair onEquality,LawandSocialJustice,theWitsBusinessSchoolhousestheAfricanEnergyLeadershipCentre,andthe Wits School of Governance is doing work on just transitions, adaptation and climate governance as well as governanceofstate-owned entities. Wecontribute to digitaltransformationthroughourFintech Hub in the Schoolof EconomicsandFinance andour WBSChair in DigitalBusiness,among others.
IllustriousAlumni
Well-known Wits Commerce, Law and Management graduates include Ismail Mahomed, the first Chief Justice in post-apartheidSouthAfrica;ArthurChaskalson,formerChiefJusticeofSouthAfrica;ThuliMadonsela,formerPublic Protector of South Africa; George Bizos, Human Rights Advocate; Joel Joffe, attorney for Nelson Mandela and the othersatRivoniaTreasontrial;SirSydneyKentridge,leadingadvocateintheTreasontrialandmanyotherprominent trials in South Africa and the UK; Margaret Marshall, former Chief Justice of the Massachusetts Supreme Court; Donald Gordon, founder of Liberty Life in 1958 and after whom the Donald Gordon Medical Centre is named; Brian Joffe, founder of the Bidvest Group; Natie Kirsh, prominent South African businessman; Patrice Motsepe, South African mining magnate; Koos Bekker, Chairman of Naspers; Gail Kelly, Australian and South African businesswoman; Judy Dlamini, Chancellor of Wits University; Ivan Glasenberg, former CEO of Glencore; Mary Vilakazi, CEO of FirstRand; Robbie Brozin, founder of Nandos; Rodney Sacks and Hilton Schlosberg of Monster Beverages; Steven Collis, CEO of Cencora; Victor Sekese CEO of SNG Grant Thornton; Mervyn King, Chair of the KingCommitteeonCorporateGovernance;andMariaRamos,SouthAfricaneconomist,businesswomanandformer CEOof theABSAgroup
EmergencyandFirePlansduringGraduations
1.Intheeventof anemergencyand/orfire:
• The presiding official (Chancellor/Vice-Chancellor/Deputy Vice-Chancellor) will make an announcement requesting guests, graduandsandstaff tokeepcalm andremainseated;
• TheUsherswillassistgueststoproceedtothenearestEmergencyexitsinordertoevacuatetheGreatHall inanorderlyfashion;
• Emergencyexitsignsarevisibleinredaboveallexitdoorssituatedonyourleftandrighthandsidesaswell asthe backoftheHall;
• TheUsherswillassisttheelderly and disabledguests outofthebuilding;
• Theacademicprocessiononstage must exitthroughthebackstagedoor;
• OnceoutsidetheGreatHallallguests,graduandsandstaffmustproceedtothemainassemblypointonthe piazza.
2.Intheeventof a Bomb threat
All bomb threats will be treated as real in order to protect lives and property and the premises will be evacuated immediately.
A MESSAGE TO GRADUATES FROM THE PRESIDENT OF CONVOCATION
Dear Wits Graduate,
There are a few defining moments in life – and it is without doubt that graduation is one of them!
Today, you enter the world as a graduate from one of the top universities on the African continent. You enter into a world filled with many challenges, but a world that is also filled with limitless possibilities. May you meet all the challenges and opportunities that await you with pride, drive, passion, innovation, social-conscience and positive-purpose.
In addition to earning the degree conferred upon you today, you have also earned the right to be associated with a special group of individuals – the Convocation of Wits University. Convocation represents all the degreed graduates of Wits and forms a vital link between the University and the global community in which it operates. Membership to Convocation is free and serves as an official channel, allowing you, the members, to convey to the University management your views about the University. This membership comes with several unique privileges, which include nominating the Chancellor of the University. The Convocation Executive has two members on the Wits Council (the governing body of the University) and maintains other regular contact with the University to ensure the voice of the Convocation is represented at the highest levels of The University.
There are approximately 200 000 Wits alumni worldwide. The distinction of our university is important to the prestige of our collective qualifications. We call upon you to nurture and enhance the value of your degree by promoting Wits’ image, preserving our values, and contributing towards our ongoing development, ensuring that we grow in stature as a globally competitive, proudly South African institution of higher learning. Please engage with us via our numerous social media channels and keep connected with us so you can access career support, receive invitations to events and reunions and have sight of all the latest news about Wits and prominent Witsies: www.wits.ac.za/alumni/updateyourdetails/
I would like to extend a warm welcome to you – you are now a #Witsie4Life!
Ms Kgomotso Mufamadi President of Convocation Wits University
Convocation is a statutory body that includes all graduates of the University. Convocation is the largest constituency of the University (since the founding of the University in 1922, graduates number over 200 000). Its statutory mandate is to “… discuss and state its opinion upon any matters relating to the University including matters referred to it by the Council” and allows for the views of graduates to be represented at the highest levels of governance of the University.
IHELE THE PROCESSION
IHELE
Words and music by S.B.P. Mnomiya
Anhom
Falalala
Obani labo?
Baphi Ahhom?
Ngibona beza
Beyikazela
Bathwel ‘ongiyane
Bavela kuphi na?
Obani labo?
Ongqondongqondo
Osibakhulu
Yibo labo hhom!
Yini na leyo?
Ihele
Ihele lezingwazi zakithi
Ahhom udwendwe
Ahhom
Udwendwe lwezingqwele zakithi
Nant’ ihele
Longqondongqondo
Nant’ ihele
Losibakhulu
Udwendwe
Udwendwe Iwezingqwele zakithi
THE PROCESSION
Who are those? Which, Falalala?
I see them coming
Walking with swinging garments
They are wearing head rings
Where do they come from?
Who are those?
They are people with knowledge
They are people in authority
These are the ones
What is that?
It is a procession
A procession of our heroes
It is a procession
A procession of our champions
Here is a procession
Of people of knowledge
Here is a procession
Of people of knowledge
A procession
A procession of our heroes
Ihele is known as the ‘Black’ Gaudeamus Igitur. In song, the writer, Mnomiya uses very poetic language to describe a graduation ceremony. The soloist sings of the ‘strange’ procession of people in long robes and head gear. The choir responds by saying that these people are academics who read profound books of knowledge.
Mnomiya goes on to say that the graduates are an inspiration to all of us, and we will also graduate like them one day. The song goes on to wish the graduates well and it ends with a resounding “Halala” (well done!).
THE UNIVERSITY MACE
Maces were originally weapons of defence, designed to break through armour. In medieval times, bishops carried a mace instead of a sword into battle to enable them to defend themselves in accordance with the canonical rule that forbade a priest to shed blood. In time, the mace has come to be regarded as a symbol of delegated authority vested in a person or an institution. At this University, it is a symbol of the authority vested in the Chancellor and a reminder of the mandate given by the legislature of this country to the University to grant degrees.
The University mace is the work of the Edinburgh designer, silversmith and engraver, William Kirk, who designed and made the mace of the University of Stirling and of other institutions. It is silver-and gold-plated, is 1070 millimetres long and 180 millimetres broad and weighs seven kilograms. The heraldic devices used in the decoration reflect the character of this University as an institution of learning, set in a mining centre within the Republic of South Africa.
The head of the mace with its spreading vertical blades is symbolic of the horns of a springbok. The central vertical spike is representative of a rock drill on the mine, and the amber stone set in the head is intended as a tribute to a past Chancellor through its association with his name, Bernstein, which in German means amber stone. The heavy quality of the head is consistent with the traditional concept of the mace as a weapon of defence. The collar repeats the shape of the head. It consists of eight cogs which symbolise the cog-wheel in the University coat of arms and represents mining and industry. The shaft is octagonal and divided into three sections. The coat of arms of the University is placed on the shaft under the collar. Below this the words Universitas Witwatersrandensis Johannesburgi: are inscribed, followed by the date in Roman numerals – MCMLXXVI (1977) – which signifies the year of the dedication of the mace.
The mace is a symbolic portrayal of this University, this city, the Witwatersrand and the Republic of South Africa. It is a constant reminder to members of Council and Senate to uphold at all times the rights, powers and privileges of the University and its governing bodies.
ACADEMIC DRESS
The academic dress of this University is patterned on that of the Universities of Oxford and Cambridge, with modifications based on the model of the University of London and certain individual features, particularly in the costumes of office bearers and the hoods of degreesof bachelor and master.
Dress for Office Bearers
• The Chancellor wears a scarlet silk gown with a broad facing of black velvet down each side, embroidered in gold and a black velvet cap with gold cord and tassels.
• The Vice-Chancellor and Principal wears a blue silk gown with a broad facing of gold silk down each side, embroidered in blue, the sleeves being lined with gold silk. The cap is of the same design as that of the Chancellor.
• The Chairman of Council wears a black silk gown with a broad facing of red velvet down each side and around the neck, the sleeves being lined with gold silk. The cap is of the same design as that of the Chancellor.
• The academic dress of the Deputy Vice-Chancellors and the Executive Directors is the same as that of the Vice-Chancellor and Principal, except that the colour of the facing and sleeves of the gown and of the cord and tassels of the cap is silver-grey.
• The gown of the President of Convocation is of blue silk, with a broad facing of gold silk down each side, the sleeves being lined with white silk. The cap is the same as that of the Chancellor, but with a blue cord and tassels.
• The Registrar wears a black silk gown with a broad facing of blue silk down each side, bordered with gold braid. The cap is the same as that of the President of Convocation.
• A member of Council wears a black silk gown with a broad facing of gold silk. The cap is the same as that of the Chancellor.
• The gown of the President of the Students’ Representative Council is black with a broad facing of blue satin.
Graduands’ Gowns
• The gowns for all degrees of bachelor and master of the University are black, of the same pattern as the gown for a Master of Arts at the University of Oxford.
• The gown for the degree of Doctor of Philosophy is scarlet, after the University of London pattern.
• The gown for a senior doctorate is the same as that for the PhD, but with a gold satin facing on each side of the gown and with the sleeve button and cord in gold.
The Academic Hood
The academic hood is the principal feature of the costume for holders of our degrees of bachelor and master. The hood for the PhD is standard, regardless of the Faculty in which the degree was obtained. It is scarlet silk, lined with white silk.
Degree Colours
The hoods reflect the colour or colours of a particular degree or associated degrees.
DISTINCTLY WITS
As a 100-year-old public university in South Africa, Wits is proud of its record of achievement as a significant contributor to our society. We contribute people to society that are training in their chosen field that are engaged and able to tackle problems using evidence-based solutions. We also contribute knowledge that has a positive impact on the quality of life. Wits for Good.
Wits is a world-class research university based on our intellectual excellence, international competitiveness, and commitment to social justice; all of which have a measurable impact.
What makes Wits distinct? Here are a few of many differentiators:
• An international perspective that helps us maintain high standards in teaching and learning and research while not distracting us from our place in Johannesburg, South Africa, and Africa. 60% out our 2021 publications included international collaborators.
• An intellectual hub of Africa, a founding member of the African Research University Alliance. In 2021 Wits published 167 articles with Namibia, 220 with Botswana, 326 with Zimbabwe and 137 with Mozambique.
• An active and engaged community leader that takes a stand on social issues and is fully committed to the advancement of the public good.
• A growing contribution to the body of knowledge through peer reviewed academic publications: 4 400 in 2021 and an average growth rate of 500 per year over the last five years.
• Knowledge contribution that is above global quality averages in several fields including: clinical and pre-clinical health studies (76% above global norms); arts and humanities (58% above global norms); life sciences (36% above global norms); physical sciences (12% above global norms).
• Wits is particularly associated with the study of the fields of virology, particle physics and the Higgs Boson, malaria, archaeology, paleontology, paleoanthropology, violence, local and regional politics, geochemistry, rock mechanics, deep mining, forensic anthropology, climate change, migration, social justice, and many more.
• Proud of the four Nobel laureates and the 98 Rhodes Scholars.
• Proud of our current 40 000 students of whom 16 000 (40%) are undertaking postgraduate studies and learning to make their own unique contributions to the global knowledge base.
• Proud of our 200 000 graduates. More than 90% of Wits graduates obtain permanent employment within 12 months of graduation.
• Proud of its ability to raise external funding to support and drive its research efforts, with contributions exceeding R 2 billion per annum.
