PhD
Graduation Ceremony
Date: 08 December
Time: 13:30
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 2025! Some of you are the first graduates in your family, well done! May your light shine for those who come after you! For those of you who are continuing in your family’s tradition, thanks for not dropping the ball. Education is the best self-investment. The past year changed the world as we know it, with no less than 60 countries and more than 1.3 billion people globally going to vote, including our own country. The outcomes have changed geopolitics, with the Global North becoming more internally focused. The resurgence of economic protectionism has altered trade landscapes, causing ripples across global markets. The rise of artificial intelligence and big data further reshapes the balance of power, as nations compete for supremacy in these fields. Climate change, a universal threat, has become a catalyst for geopolitical tension. The race for control over natural resources, especially in the Arctic and other vulnerable regions, has intensified. South Africa has not been spared in the regional conflict, losing our own young fighters for peace in the DRC.
As the twentieth meeting of the Group of 20 heads to our shores, a first for the continent of Africa, we have chosen Solidarity, Equality and Sustainability as our G20 theme. This speaks to our recognition of the interconnected of nations. Our shared future depends on mutual understanding, cooperation, equality and stability across nations. As our future leaders you need to adapt to an uncertain world, embrace diversity, and foster dialogue. That will help you to craft a healthier, more balanced world for future generations.
As you venture into the world, take time to expand the depth and breadth of your knowledge. Read outside your specialisation, engage with people outside your comfort zone. Understand the plight of people less fortunate than yourself. Be the change you want to see in your country first then the world. 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 Humility and Integrity, Always. May you be those leaders! HALALA!
CONGRATULATIONS! HALALA! GO LEAD SOUTH AFRICA TO GREATNESS!
Dr Judy Dlamini Chancellor
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 for the advancement of society. 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.
ORDER OF PROCEDURE
08 DECEMBER 2025 AT 13:30
The audience will rise as the academic procession enters the hall and will remain standing until the Acting Vice-Chancellor is in place
The Acting Vice-Chancellor will constitute the congregation
The Acting Vice-Chancellor will welcome the graduands, diplomates and guests
Address to the congregation
Conferment of degrees and granting of diplomas
The Acting President of Convocation will address the graduates and diplomates
The Acting Vice-Chancellor will dissolve the congregation
The audience will stand while Ihele is played
Members of the audience are requested to stand while the academic procession leaves the hall and not to leave the hall before the end of the ceremony.
IMPORTANT NOTICE
In the event of load-shedding or power cuts, the Great Hall may become totally dark until the generator comes into operation.
FACULTY OF COMMERCE, LAW AND MANAGEMENT
DEAN: PROFESSOR J COHEN BCom Hons PhD (Witwatersrand)
Master of Management
ADEWUNMI, Olawunmi
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BONGWE, Asiashu Governance (Public and Development Sector Monitoring and Evaluation)
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CHING'ANDU, Bruno Mubanga
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DLADLA, Mfundo Hammilton
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GOITSIONE, Obopeng Phineas
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MAKUWERERE, Cornilius
Energy Leadership RESEARCH REPORT: Solar installation as a solution to sustained load shedding in Gauteng, South Africa
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Digital Business RESEARCH REPORT: Investigating the adoption of digital financial solutions and their impact on financial inclusion: A sub-Saharan Africa perspective
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Digital Business RESEARCH REPORT: Ethical implications of digital auditing tools in financial services
MAMATSHARAGA, Winnie Rudzani
Energy Leadership RESEARCH REPORT: Investigating success factors for women senior leadership: a case study of the South African Department of Mineral Resources and Energy
MANAKA, Mildred Wendy Mambele
Digital Business RESEARCH REPORT: Leadership through ethical innovation in telecommunications companies in Gauteng
MANGA, Fouzia
Energy Leadership RESEARCH REPORT: The political economy of a just transition to renewable Electricity in South Africa
MANKAHLA, Sithembile
Energy Leadership RESEARCH REPORT: Just transition in the renewable energy sector a vehicle for change: Khai-Ma Local Municipality
MASHAMBA, Rabelani Doctor
Energy Leadership RESEARCH REPORT: Factors affecting African women's ownership of service stations in Tshwane Municipality of the Gauteng province, South Africa
MASIPA, Isaiah Mmakhudu
Digital Business RESEARCH REPORT: Ethical AI readiness within utilities in South Africa
MASUBELELE, Kebonang Amelia
Digital Business RESEARCH REPORT: A responsible AI governance framework for local government: the case of the City of Tshwane, South Africa
MATHEBULA, Mantwa
Energy Leadership RESEARCH REPORT: The implementation of the Equator Principles environmental and social obligations on renewable energy projects: an exploratory study
MBHIZA, Bongani Leonard Governance (Public and Development Sector Monitoring and Evaluation)
RESEARCH REPORT: Barriers and strategies for parental involvement in public primary schools in Vhembe district
MCHUNU, Lungile Angie
Digital Business RESEARCH REPORT: Factors influencing telematics and mobile technology adoption among truck drivers in South Africa
MELIM-LAZORIK, Tania Patricia De Sousa
Digital Business RESEARCH REPORT: Digital transformation at a selected South African higher education institution: an administrative perspective
MENTE, Ntombovuyo Veronica Governance (Governance and Management) RESEARCH REPORT: The impact of the decline in agricultural activities on the socio economic status of residents in the Chris Hani district municipality
MGCINA, Sibongile Josephine
Digital Business RESEARCH REPORT: Factors influencing the adoption of generative AI for customer service in the South African banking sector
MKHONZA, Roy S'dumo
Digital Business RESEARCH REPORT: Leveraging blockchain to enhance cybersecurity in South African government institutions
MKORONGO, Mark
Digital Business RESEARCH REPORT: Mitigating ethical risks of using artificial intelligence in the insurance industry
MLOTSHWA, Nomcebo Sinodumo
Digital Business RESEARCH REPORT: Optimising open-cast mining drilling processes through digital mining
MNGUNI, Mphikeleli Matthew
Governance (Public Policy) RESEARCH REPORT: Public participation in socio-economic impact assessment for the revised White Paper on Arts, Culture and Heritage
MODIPANE, Pheagane, Trott
Governance (Public and Development Sector Monitoring and Evaluation) RESEARCH REPORT: Challenges in implementing Municipal Infrastructure Grant in Greater Letaba Local Municipality
MODISANE, Mogale Diagile
Energy Leadership RESEARCH REPORT: A success index for public private partnership programmes' success in the electricity generation sector of South Africa
MOEPYE, Lesego Mmathabo
Governance (Public Policy) RESEARCH REPORT: The effectiveness of the Southern Africa trade and investment hub programme partners (2017 to 2022)
MOGASHANA, Lucky Mokhine
Energy Leadership RESEARCH REPORT : Factors influencing residential rooftop solar PV purchasing decisions in an upmarket estate in South Africa
MOGODI, Makoba Naomi
Digital Business RESEARCH REPORT: PropTech & the South African residential real estate sales process: Exploring technology-enabled streamlining and technology usage
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MOLA, Vincent Ngwako
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MOLEFE, Atlehang
Governance (Public Policy) RESEARCH REPORT: The rise and role of feminists and queer-identifying individuals in democratising political and policy environments
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MORENAMMELE, Rorisang Kananelo
Governance (Public Policy) RESEARCH REPORT: Portrayal of immigrants in the South African political discourse
MOROTA, Puleng
Digital Business RESEARCH REPORT: Factors influencing electric vehicle adoption in South Africa
MOSEHLE, Selogadi Rachel
Energy Leadership RESEARCH REPORT: Establishing a collaborative supply chain framework for advancing renewable energy development through industrial clusters in South Africa
MOSIMANEKGOSI, Atlegang Masego
Digital Business RESEARCH REPORT: Investigating the impact of digital technology on business performance among small and medium enterprises in South Africa
MOTLHALA, Nondumiso Zamanguni Desiree
Energy Leadership RESEARCH REPORT: Investigating the adoption and utilisation of renewable energy funding by manufacturing SMEs in Gauteng
MPEHLO, Sinethemba
Governance (Public Policy) RESEARCH REPORT: Coalition governance and state-civil society engagement in implementing in the City of Johannesburg's housing policy
MSAYI, Wistaria Mandisa
Digital Business RESEARCH REPORT: Adoption of e-government platforms by SMMEs in the Eastern Cape province of South Africa
MSINDO, Musa
Energy Leadership RESEARCH REPORT: Malawi's sustainable development strategy through the use of environmental taxation reforms
MTHETHWA, Luyanda Palesa Melyn
Energy Leadership RESEARCH REPORT: Comparing sustainability reporting in South Africa's coal mining sector: JSE-Listed vs non-listed entities
MUNGROO, Samiksha
Energy Leadership RESEARCH REPORT: Leveraging renewable energy electricity aggregator models for commercial and industrial sectors in South Africa
MUTUA, Amy (with Distinction) Governance (Development and Economics) RESEARCH REPORT: Urban placemaking in the Stjwetla informal settlement
NAICKER, Chantel
Digital Business RESEARCH REPORT: Factors affecting digital transformation of a traditional South African bank: The influence of Generation Z
NDLOVU, Simile Finkie
Digital Business RESEARCH REPORT: The application of digital ethics practices to mitigate digital fraud in a mobile network operator in South Africa
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NGOEPE, Mabatho Daisy Governance (Development and Economics) RESEARCH REPORT: The suitability of South Africa's industrial policy to promote employment in the manufacturing sector
NKOANA, Kabo Jemima
Energy Leadership RESEARCH REPORT: Perceptions of senior bankers on the role of South African banks in large-scale renewable energy projects
NOMONGO, Tembalethu
Energy Leadership RESEARCH REPORT: Evaluation of waste to energy technology use by South African Metropolitan Municipalities
NTSHINGILA, Mduduzi Kennedy
Digital Business RESEARCH REPORT: A framework for cloud technology governance in South Africa's transport sector
NTSHINGILA, Nokhanyo Millicent
Digital Business RESEARCH REPORT: Entrepreneurial cultural intelligence and its application within South African Small and Medium Enterprises
NTULI, Njabulo
Governance (Public Policy) RESEARCH REPORT: The ex-post results of gender responsive budgeting at the Gauteng Provincial Treasury
NYINGWA, Amanda
Governance (Development and Economics) RESEARCH REPORT: The role of Special Economic Zones in facilitating sustainable urban development: A case study of the Tshwane Automotive Special Economic Zone
PADAYACHEE, Matthew Keegan
Digital Business RESEARCH REPORT: Fintech's perceived impact on driving digital financial inclusion within South Africa
PHOFU, Maletsema Letta
Digital Business RESEARCH REPORT: Investigating the impact of the cybercrime legislation on online purchasing behavior in South Africa
PILLAY, Preshalen Shalen
Digital Business RESEARCH REPORT: Framing Robotic Process Automation Implementation through a Job Characteristics Model Communication Approach
PONIAPPEN, Ahn-Lynn
Governance (Public and Development Sector Monitoring and Evaluation)
RESEARCH REPORT: Exploring the utility of rapid evaluation in addressing lagging timeframes within the Department of the Premier, Western Cape, South Africa
QINA, Phelisa Lumka
Governance (Development and Economics) RESEARCH REPORT : South African Regulation 28 amendments and the implications for pension fund investments in infrastructure
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Digital Business RESEARCH REPORT: Digital marketing for customer loyalty among price-conscious young consumers on mobile grocery apps
RADZILANI, Avhafhati
Governance (Public and Development Sector Monitoring and Evaluation) RESEARCH REPORT: Capacity building interventions for data capture and analysis in Ekurhuleni Health District
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Digital Business RESEARCH REPORT: Mobile money as an enabler for financial inclusion amongst unbanked individuals in South Africa
RAKUBU, Mokgadi Betty
Governance (Development and Economics) RESEARCH REPORT: Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) and job creation in Limpopo Province, South Africa
RALESIGO, Daniel Refentse
Digital Business RESEARCH REPORT: Digital transformation and its implication to cybersecurity in a South African retail bank
REZAEI, Amir Hossein
Governance (Public Policy) RESEARCH REPORT: Determinants of government cyber security capacity in developing countries
ROBERTS, Anton Bernard
Governance (Public and Development Sector Monitoring and Evaluation)
RESEARCH REPORT: Catalysts and constraints influencing the integration of people with disabilities in the Msunduzi municipal area
SANASY, Thireshni
Digital Business RESEARCH REPORT: Chatbot adoption within the South African real estate industry
SEKABATE, Palesa Esther
Digital Business RESEARCH REPORT: The use of digital banking platforms and its impact on customer satisfaction: an empirical study in the South African banking sector context
SEKANO, Lesego
Energy Leadership RESEARCH REPORT: The role of trade unions in shaping the just energy transition in South Africa: a case study of Komati Power Sation
SETLHALOGILE, Onalenna Louise
Digital Business RESEARCH REPORT: Exploring digital transformation for improved operational efficiency between mine dispatch and road logistics processes in the SA mining sector
SHIFIDI, Set-Son Kondjashili
Energy Leadership RESEARCH REPORT: Electricity tariff cross-subsidization within regional electricity distributors in Namibia
SIBIYA, Thandeka Nontobeko
Governance (Development and Economics) RESEARCH REPORT: Gendered representations and public leadership in South Africa
SIHLONGONYANE, Nonhlanhla
Governance (Public and Development Sector Monitoring and Evaluation)
RESEARCH REPORT: Exploring the extent to which GBV programming in Soweto is evidence informed
SIKHAKHANE, Nzuzo Godfrey
Energy Leadership RESEARCH REPORT: The challenge of leading change during energy transition at a freight company in South Africa
SINGH, Lochan Rambaran
Digital Business RESEARCH REPORT: The role of leadership in the digital transformation of South Africa's criminal justice system
SIWUNDLA, Lehlohonolo Nontsikelelo
Digital Business RESEARCH REPORT: The adoption of wearable technologies for data analytics in South African netball
SUKATI, Bongumenzi Thulani Komesi
Energy Leadership RESEARCH REPORT: Barriers and opportunities to incremental innovation in the energy sector of Eswatini
THOKOANE, Sekobje Minki
Digital Business RESEARCH REPORT: Livestock tracking using the IoT: a case of Makhuduthamaga district, Limpopo
TSHABALALA, Sindiswa Prudence
Digital Business RESEARCH REPORT: The role of leadership in managing cybersecurity in the South African payments industry
TSHABANGU, Busani
Governance (Public and Development Sector Monitoring and Evaluation)
RESEARCH REPORT: Application of evaluative thinking to Social and Labour Plan community development projects in the Steve Tshwete Local Municipality
TSHAVHUNGWA, Justice
Digital Business RESEARCH REPORT: Mobile payment technologies adoption in advancing financial inclusion
WILLIAMS, Brett Justin
Digital Business RESEARCH REPORT: Risk associated with the adoption of emerging 4IR technologies in South Africa
WILLIE, Ntombozuko
Energy Leadership RESEARCH REPORT: Investigation of social, environmental and financial impact of energy supply interruption in Richards Bay smelter
ZITHA, Vongani Rebecca
Digital Business RESEARCH REPORT: Exploring the role of alternative data set to drive financial inclusion for underserved population in South Africa
Postgraduate Diploma in Digital Business
MASILELA, Londiwe Graca
MBATHA, Zanele
SCOTCH, Masego Elder
VILAKAZI, Sicelo
Postgraduate Diploma in Energy Leadership
BANSILAL, Prakash (with Distinction)
CHETTY, Stephanie
KGATLE, Nnyana
LEBEA, Lesedi (with Distinction)
LEBELO, Mandisa Xoliswa (with Distinction)
LEEUW, Bonolo Koketso
MABEO, Rapula Peter
MGQUBA, Nolukhanyo
MKHONTO, Nomathemba Lehlohonolo
MORWENG, Reginald Kgomotso
MTHETHWA, Professor
MTHULI, Nokukhanya Petunia
NAIDOO, Takshica
PANYA, Luzuko Enoch
PILLAY, Sumesh
RAMARU, Aluwani Ulric
SINGH, Yaman (with Distinction)
SITHOLE, Andile Prudence Prudence
Business
Business
Business
Business
(Electricity)
Postgraduate Diploma in Management
AMUKWAYA, Selma Nangula
MADLALA, Langelihle
MAKOTA, Kudakwashe
PHIRI, Nomshado
SEBETHA, Lusta
FACULTY OF HUMANITIES
DEAN: PROFESSOR M
MUSEMWA
BA Hons (Zimbabwe) MA (Cape Town) PhD (Minnesota, USA) MASSAf
Master of Arts
COPISO, Luthando Social Development RESEARCH REPORT: Access to reproductive health care for LGBTIQA+ youth: Perceptions and experience of LGBTIQA+ youth in accessing reproductive healthcare in Johannesburg, South Africa
ERASMUS, Chloé Jade
Applied Drama: Theatre in Education, Communities and Social Contexts
RESEARCH REPORT: Spooring Rhizomatic genealogies: exploring the Nomadism of a South African Cape coloured, through Experimental Performance as Research and intermedial arts
KHOLONYANE, Quincy Masana International Relations RESEARCH REPORT: Analyzing the South China Sea Disputes from the Perspective of International Law: the case studies of the Spratly and Paracel Islands
MAFALO, Mosa (with Distinction) Psychology RESEARCH REPORT: Investigating the viability of a digital neurocognitive measuring tool in older adults using the Asenze population-based cohort
MNCUBE, Sandile Aubrey (with Distinction) Anthropology RESEARCH REPORT: Digital Jozi: Hybrid identity, avatars and anonymity in online gaming spaces
MOFOKENG, Mpuse Applied Ethics for Professionals RESEARCH REPORT: Does Ubuntu Virtue Ethics provide a useful framework for understanding failures of leadership management in the public health service delivery system?
MOKAILA, Teto Therisanyo DISSERTATION: Practice as Research: What Role Can Image Theatre and Photography Play in Co-Knowledge Building and Cultural Preservation among Marginalized Ethnic Groups in Botswana?
MOKALAPA, Colbert Sahlaku Media Studies DISSERTATION: The inclusiveness of the community in community radio: an investigation into the programming of Radio Turf
MOKGEHLE, Kabelo Drama Therapy RESEARCH REPORT : Masixoxisane Ndoda: Using ukuxoxisa to interrogate structural violence against black male psychotherapists in South Africa
MUKONA, Phathutshedzo Social Development RESEARCH REPORT: The lived experiences of unemployed Black men from a Low Socio-Economic Peri-Urban Motsoaledi Township in Soweto
NEUBAUER, Nina Karolin (with Distinction) Drama Therapy RESEARCH REPORT: Authenticity: a dramatherapeutic reflective exploration using Authentic Movement with childcare workers in a group of foster care homes in Johannesburg, South Africa
PHATSHWANE, Tshegofatso Realeboga (with Distinction) Anthropology
RESEARCH REPORT : Building Movements without Movement: On Surviving the COVID-19 Mobility Regimes with the Black Womxn Caucus
PITSO, Lerato Violet RESEARCH REPORT: Investigating Precarious Workers' Motivations to Seek Support from Grassroots Organizations within Legal Frameworks in Gauteng: a Case Study of CWAO
ROUSSEAUX, Barbara (with Distinction) Sociology DISSERTATION: "The ground speaks the language of fallen leaves": Archivists contest urban remembrance in Brasilia and Cape Town
Master of Arts in Community-Based Counselling Psychology
BENHURA, Anoshamisa Clive (with Distinction) RESEARCH REPORT: Recreational space and identities of young people in Dobsonville, Soweto
SOBOYISI, Naledi Pertunia (with Distinction) RESEARCH REPORT: Narratives between generations: Stories of Black grandmothers and granddaughters in Soweto, South Africa
Master of Education
MAHLANGU, Judith Fikile (with Distinction) Educational Psychology RESEARCH REPORT: Investigating the epistemic beliefs of first-generation and continuing generation students in a South African university
Postgraduate Diploma in Arts
BLOSE, Zanele
DUMEKO, Aphiwe
DYANTYI, Zandisile Sinethemba
FENI, Christopher
MOHLALA, Theoddore Tsepo
MONYELA, Lebogang Jessicah (with Distinction)
NGWENI, Mihlali
NTOMBELA, Luyanda Calvin
HADEBE, Nonhlanhla Fortunate (with Distinction) NTSOEU, Motshabi Selinah (with Distinction)
MABOE, Lungile Lebogang (with Distinction) NYUNDU, Busisiwe Tryphina
MALEBATSO, Thomas Malebatso
MAPOTA, Olerato Bonolo (with Distinction)
MOGALE, Sebasa Johannes (with Distinction)
SEKHOSANA, Dhuva Katleho Jacinto
SEMELA, Julia Nokuthula
Postgraduate Certificate in Education in Senior Phase and Further Education and Training Teaching
BALOYI, Evengelist Morongwa
BANGO, Bongiwe Charmaine
BAPELA, Lekhoro Monica
BAPELA, Ulanda MacHukudu
BENJU, Gcinile Ginger
BHAMJEE, Sabeehah
BLOEMSTEIN, Chante Kim
BREGMAN, Alexandra Michele
BVUMA, Tinyiko
CHAVALALA, Ndzivalelo Hildah
CHULE, Mbaliyethemba Nompumelelo
CINGO, Aviwe Aron
DIYANE, Ayanda Bongi
DLAMINI, Akhona Ndibongile
DLAMINI, Bhekani Mzwandile
DLAMINI, Richard Hlalanathi
DLAMINI, Zanele
ECKHARDT, Angela Lara (with Distinction)
FIKENI, Anathi
GAFFANE, Karabo Damaries
GOVENDER, Kyleen
GUMBI, Mbalenhle
HOOSEN, Saadia
KGAPHOLA, Kamogelo Mabel
KGOETE, Rodney Hlahlane
KOMANE, Lucas Koketso
KOTSOKOANE, Mogale
LASANIA, Bibi 'Aisha
LEFAKANE, Tshimologo Reatile
LESENYA, Khomotjo Pertunia
LOUBOUKA, Ashanti
LUKHELE, Phethiwe Patience Phindile
LUMA, Sihle (with Distinction)
MABUNDA, Betty
MAGAGULA, Ayanda Goodness (with Distinction)
MAHOLE, Whitney Vutivi
MAILA, Anthony Kgolane
MAISE, Kirstin Lerato (with Distinction)
MAJABELA, Shitshembiso
MAKHUBELA, Naum Nyanese (with Distinction)
MAKHUBELE, Nhlanhla Fortunate
MAKHUVELE, Nell
MAKINANA, Philisiwe
MAKUBALO, Mpumelelo Osego
MALINGA, Thobeka Nonhle
MALULEKE, Ntiyiso Sonia
MALULEKE, Tinyiko Sharlotte
MAMUTHUBI, Phathutshedzo
MAOTA, Mamoruakgomo Tebogo
MAPENQUISSA, Caroline
MAPHALALA, Octavia Xolile
MAPOKGOLE, Lebogang Prudence
MASALA, Orapeleng Posner
MASENYA, Mahlatse Annah
MASHILE, Khethiwe Poseletso (with Distinction)
MASHILOANE, Precious
MASUFI, Mafellatje Queenet
MATHEBULA, Boitumelo
MATJOMANE, Malebo Khadija
MATSENA, Sedupe Darick
MBAMBA, Ntandokazi
MBATHA, Zibusiso Lethukuthula
MBATINI, Nsovo Confession
MBHELE, Nonhle Kwanele
MDLULI, Siyabonga Hopewell
MGIBA, Mokgatetsi Chantel
MNGOMEZULU, Malibongwe Mandy
MNQWAZI, Sihle Rosemary
MOABELO, Dikeledi Tshepiso
MODIBA, Katlego (with Distinction)
MODISE, Lehlogonolo Bassie
MODJELA, Sharon
MODUMAELA, Dimakatso
MOEKETSANE, Tshegofatso
MOFOKENG, Thabang
MOGOTLANE, Tshegofatso Sue
MOHALE, Amogelang (with Distinction)
MOKGESENG, Refilwe
MOKGOTHO, Kgopelo Tamia
MOKGWATSANA, Moipone Lesego
MOKOBANE, Malebo Lesego
MOLEFE, Gontse Tsholofelo
MOODLEY, Samishka
MOOKI, Gaone Rossette
MOSOTHO, Samukelo (with Distinction)
MOTSHWENI, Bontle Elisa
MOTSIBI, Mpetledi Christina
MOYENI, Tina
MOYO, Grace Nonhlanhla
MPAPANE, Trinity Samantha
MPHOLOANE, Junior Karabo
MSIBI, Rachel Lungile
MSOMI, Sinenhlanhla
MTEBHELE, Ayanda
MTHEMBU, Lindokunhle Trudy
MTHOMBENI, Katekani Linky
MTSHALI, Nobuhle Funani
MUTAVHATSINDI, Noreen Tshiudzi
MVUBU, Asemahle
MZEKANDABA, Sipesihle Kwanda
NGAKE, Amogelang Caroline
NGOBENI, Leah
NGOBENI, Phosi Alucia
NGUBANE, Thembeka Queeneth
NIKELO, Vika Nikelo
NKOANA, Kgadi Terri
NKUNA, Lesego
NOKWE, Avela
NTAJE, Motlogelwa Samuel
NTHITE, Phomolo Tebogo
NTOMBELA, Kwanda
NTSHABA, Naomi
NZUZA, Lindiwe
OMOSUWA, Mercy Tintswalo
OSITANG, Tlotlomatso (with Distinction)
PALE, Tshepho Melvin (with Distinction)
PHOFANE, Nthabeleng Precious (with Distinction)
PINA, Nolubabalo Millicent
PONCANA, Zwoita
RABOTHATA, Keletso
RACHEMULA, Kedibone
RAMAFI, Kagiso Remofiloe
RAMAKAU, Lerato
RAMATSHA, Lebogang Johannes
ROBINSON, Kirsten Leigh (with Distinction)
SALIJEE, Razeenah
SEBOTHOMA, Roseane
SEDIBENG, Monene
SELEPE, Lastborn Kapoko
SEMENYA, Phuti Donald
SHABALALA, Mbalenhle Promise
SIBISI, Phiwokuhle
SIBIYA, Thandeka Lungelo
SITHOLE, Lesedi
SITHOLE, Phindile
SMID, Cal
SOBAHLE, Yandisa Zamanci
SUPING, Jane Phuzile
TIVANE, Johnson
TSETSI, Happy Itani
TSHABALALA, Wisani
TSHIKHUDO, Musandiwa
TSHISHONGA, Abigail Phophi
TUBE, Vuyelwa Jeanette
UBISI, Mica
VHARETA, Maxwell
VILAKAZI, Ziyanda Thalente
GRADUATION AWARDS
FACULTY OF HUMANITIES
Prizes to be presented at the Faculty’s prize giving ceremony
National Association of Professional Teacher Organizations of South Africa Prizes: For outstanding ability in teaching Mathematics and Science subjects (PGCE)
Amogelang Mohale
The Marshall Kander Drama for Life Award: For outstanding research in HIV/AIDS education through Applied Drama and Theatre
Zandisile Sinethemba Dyantyi
Thomas Malebatso Malebatso
Sebasa Johannes Mogale
OFFICERS OF THE UNIVERSITY
Chancellor
DR NJ DLAMINI MBChB (Natal) DOH (Free State) MBA (Witwatersrand) DBL (Unisa) PGCE (Witwatersrand) IEC (Stanford-USA)
Vice-Chancellor and Principal
PROFESSOR Z VILAKAZI BSc (Manchester) MSc PhD (Witwatersrand) FRS, FAAS, MASSAf
Chairman of Council
MR I SHONGWE BA (Wesleyan) MPhil (Oxford)
Senior Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Academic)
PROFESSOR R OSMAN BA (Witwatersrand) HDipEd BEd (Unisa) MEd PhD (Witwatersrand) MASSAf
Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Research and Innovation)
PROFESSOR L MORRIS BSc (Hons) (Witwatersrand) DPhil (Oxford) FRSSA FAAS MASSAf
Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Systems and Operations)
PROFESSOR IR JANDRELL BSc(Eng) GDE PhD (Witwatersrand) IntPE(SA) PrEng FSAAE FSAIEE SMIEEE
Deputy Vice-Chancellor (People Development and Culture)
PROFESSOR G STEVENS BA (Cape Town) BA (Hons) Psych MPsych (Western Cape) DLitt et Phil (UNISA), MASSAf
Registrar
MS CG CROSLEY BA HDipEd (Witwatersrand) BEd Hons (Unisa) MEd (Witwatersrand)
Chief Financial Officer
MS MM MANYAMA CA (SA) BCom Accounting (Cape Town) BCompt Hons (Unisa) BCom Hons Taxation (Pretoria) MBA (GIBS)
Dean of Student Affairs
MR JAP SEPTEMBER BA MPhil (Cape Town)
DEANS OF THE FACULTIES
Faculty of Commerce, Law and Management
PROFESSOR J COHEN BCom Hons PhD (Witwatersrand)
Faculty of Engineering and the Built Environment
PROFESSOR T MAJOZI BSc(Eng) MSc(Eng) (Natal) PhD (UMIST) CEng PrEng FIChemE FAAS MASSAf FWISA FSAAE
Faculty of Health Sciences
PROFESSOR SA MADHI MBBCh MMed PhD (Witwatersrand) FCPaeds(SA) MASSAf RSSAf TWAS CBE
Faculty of Humanities
PROFESSOR M MUSEMWA BA Hons (Zimbabwe) MA (Cape Town) PhD (Minnesota, USA) MASSAf
Faculty of Science
PROFESSOR N CHETTY BSc Hons (Natal) MS PhD (U. Illinois Urbana-Champaign) MASSAf MSAIP MRSSA
President of Convocation
MS K MUFAMADI BA LLB LLM (Witwatersrand)
FACULTY OF COMMERCE, LAW AND MANAGEMENT
Situated in the heart of the most powerful economic hub on the African continent, drawing on the best academic talent in the region, and connected to the most influential social agents in the country, the Faculty of Commerce, Law and Management offers an exciting and contemporary set of study programmes that grapple with the economic and social challenges of our country, and the economies across the globe. The Faculty offers a unique opportunity to specialise in the technical skills that are driving and shaping business within modern economies and to study the social, legal and economic consequences of economic development and growth.
The Faculty consists of six Schools:
The Margo Steele School of Accountancy, The School of Business Sciences, The School of Economics and Finance, The School of Law, The Graduate School of Business Administration (Wits Business School), and The Wits School of Governance
The Faculty offers three undergraduate programmes in Commerce:
1. a three-year Bachelor of Commerce (B.Com),
2. a three-year Bachelor of Accounting Science (B.AccSc), and
3. a three-year Bachelor of Economic Science (B.EconSc).
Three undergraduate programmes are offered in Law:
1. a four-year LLB programme as a first degree for students wishing to study law
2. a three-year LLB programme for students who hold any prior degree but who have not completed any law subjects, and
3. a two-year LLB programme for students who hold any prior degree who have law as a major subject.
At the postgraduate level the Faculty offers a full spectrum of honours degrees, postgraduate diplomas, Masters degrees and Ph.D programmes across its six Schools. The Faculty offers exciting opportunities for MBA and related qualifications in the Wits Business School - the most research-productive business school in South Africa - and public management and development degrees offered by the Wits School of Governance - the leading South African centre for public service postgraduate training. In addition to Doctoral degrees, Masters degrees and Postgraduate Diplomas are offered in Commerce, Accountancy, Economics, Business Science, Applied Development Economics and Policy, Law, and Management.
The Faculty has an extensive offering of short course 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 regulatory institutions in South Africa.
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, information systems, governance, public finance and health economics.
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 School of Law holds the Claude Leon Foundation Chair in Earth Justice and Stewardship and the NRF SARChI Chair on Equality, Law and Social Justice, the Wits Business School houses the African Energy Leadership Centre, and the Wits School of Governance is doing work on just transitions, adaptation and climate governance as well as governance of state-owned entities. We contribute to digital transformation through our Fintech Hub in the School of Economics and Finance and our WBS Chair in Digital Business, among others.
Illustrious Alumni
Well-known Wits Commerce, Law and Management graduates include Ismail Mahomed, the first Chief Justice in post-apartheid South Africa; Arthur Chaskalson, former Chief Justice of South Africa; Thuli Madonsela, former Public Protector of South Africa; George Bizos, Human Rights Advocate; Joel Joffe, attorney for Nelson Mandela and the others at Rivonia Treason trial; Sir Sydney Kentridge, leading advocate in the Treason trial and many other prominent 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 King Committee on Corporate Governance; and Maria Ramos, South African economist, businesswoman and former CEO of the ABSA group .
Emergency and Fire Plans during Graduations
1. In the event of an emergency and/or fire:
The presiding official (Chancellor/Vice-Chancellor/Deputy Vice-Chancellor) will make an announcement requesting guests, graduands and staff to keep calm and remain seated; The Ushers will assist guests to proceed to the nearest Emergency exits in order to evacuate the Great Hall in an orderly fashion; Emergency exit signs are visible in red above all exit doors situated on your left and right hand sides as well as the back of the Hall; The Ushers will assist the elderly and disabled guests out of the building; The academic procession on stage must exit through the back stage door; Once outside the Great Hall all guests, graduands and staff must proceed to the main assembly point on the piazza.
2. In the event of 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 250 000 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 102-year-old public university in South Africa, Wits is proud of its record of achievement as a significant contributor to our society. We contribute capable people to society that are training in their chosen field that are engaged and able to tackle problems using evidence-based solutions. We also engage with our communities to share knowledge that we create so as to make a positive impact on the quality of life. Wits for Good.
Wits is a world-class research-intensive 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. In 2024 Wits authors published articles with co-authors from 199 universities, 94% of which were from countries other than South Africa.
• An intellectual hub of Africa, a founding member of the African Research University Alliance. In 2024 Wits published 2342 articles with co-authors in Africa, including 32 articles with Namibia, 61 with Botswana, 87 with Zimbabwe and 36 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: 4563 in 2024 and an average growth rate of 4% 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 99 Rhodes Scholars.
• Proud of our current 42000 students of whom 16600 (40%) are undertaking postgraduate studies and learning to make their own unique contributions to the global knowledge base.
• Proud of our more than 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.