PhD
Graduation Ceremony
Date: 09 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
09 DECEMBER 2025 AT 13:30
The audience will rise as the academic procession enters the hall and will remain standing until the Vice-Chancellor is in place
The Vice-Chancellor will constitute the congregation
The 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 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 ENGINEERING AND THE BUILT ENVIRONMENT
DEAN: PROFESSOR T MAJOZI BScEng(UND) MScEng(UND) PhD (UMIST) CEng PrEng FIChemE FAAS MASSAf FWISA FSAAE
Master of Architecture (Professional)
ALLY KOTTY, Sumaiyah
School of Architecture and Planning Design Project: Resilient Roots: Unemployment & the legacy of group areas act in South African Communities, South of Johannesburg
KUBHEKA, Thami
School of Architecture and Planning Design Project: 1 Third Temple - a rehabilitation and reintegration facility for parolees.
MAHOMED, Ibraheem
School of Architecture and Planning Design Project: E//SPORTS an alternative tertiary education model as a form of urban regeneration
MATEBESE, Sazi
School of Architecture and Planning Design Project: Redefining elderly care: Community-based care facilities in Maclear, Eastern Cape
MUSHOPHE, Mpho Rofhiwa
School of Architecture and Planning Design Project: Moya WaKasi: Spaces of healing in Thembisa inspired by indigenous spiritual rituals
TSHEHLA, Matsebe Lloyd
School of Architecture and Planning Design Project: RESURGENCE: Recycling hub for marginalised waste reclaimers in Soweto, South Africa.
Master of Engineering (Professional)
BHEMBE, Bongani Edward Electrical Engineering
BUTHELEZI, Sipho Zacharia Engineering Management
HANDINA, Farai Precious Mechanical, Industrial and Aeronautical Engineering
MAKGAREETSA, Mamaritidi Griffiths Industrial Engineering
MAMBA, Mayibongwe Arrineck Engineering Management
MHELEMBE, Uncel Antorney Mechanical Engineering
MOROPANE, Austin Thabang Civil and Environmental Engineering
MUNDUKU, Kaseya Patriarche Abraham Systems Engineering
NGUBANE, Ndumiso Amos Civil and Environmental Engineering
NTULI, Phumelele Electrical Engineering
NXUMALO, Noxolo Portia Industrial Engineering
SEKHAME, Karabo Industrial Engineering
SIKHOSANA, Sifiso Cyril
Master of Science in Aeronautical Engineering
SERÔDIO, Tiago Vicente Morais
Electrical Engineering
DISSERTATION: Verification of residual stress compliances in GFRP laminates using a thermal load.
Master of Science in Building
BOATENG, Yaw
BOOI, Bonga Sivuyisiwe
MSINDO, Zodwa Lizana
NDLOVU, Sikhumbuzo
NKADIMENG, Matshidisho Khutso
NTLATLENG, Nkepile Zinhle Boipelo
OKYNE, Bernice
SUNG, Harim
DISSERTATION: Effect of lockdowns and vaccinations on REITs returns during the COVID-19 pandemic
Master of Science in Development Planning
CASSIM, Tunisia Mekeyla Akbar
Master of Science in Development Planning RESEARCH REPORT: An Investigation into Privately Managed Public Spaces in popular Urban Neighborhoods in City of Johannesburg
KHOZA, Nomkhitha Priscilla
Master of Science in Development Planning RESEARCH REPORT: "Smart cities in South-Africa: a case of 'misplaced priorities'" or a guide towards innovative approaches to socio-economic development?
MEKGWE, Talita Obakeng
Master of Science in Development Planning RESEARCH REPORT: The phenomenon of informal occupation in former business buildings: a case study inner-city Johannesburg
MHLATI, Ntombizodwa Muriel
Master of Science in Development Planning RESEARCH REPORT: A city's engagement with backyard housing: the case of the City of Tshwane
MSELENI, Sizwe
Master of Science in Development Planning RESEARCH REPORT: The perceived effects of urban renewal initiatives, such as NDPG-funded capital projects, as reported by Mdantsane's businesses on their operations
Master of Science in Engineering
ALLY, Moegamat Yusuf
School of Electrical and Information Engineering DISSERTATION: Sound event detection on imbalanced data using spectral entropy active learning
BAGGOTT, Joseph Samuel
School of Electrical and Information Engineering DISSERTATION: Modelling voting patterns at the ward and municipal levels in South Africa using remote sensing and machine learning
BUTHELEZI, Sifiso
School of Mining Engineering RESEARCH REPORT: What is the optimal pushback dimension for Sishen Mine that will complement its current mining fleet?
CADER, Zaynab Adam
School of Chemical and Metallurgical Engineering DISSERTATION: Influence of Cr/C Ratio on Cooling Curve Characteristics, Microstructure, Mechanical Properties, and Corrosion Performance of High-Chrome Cast Iron
CARPENTER, Ernest Benjamen Mahoney
School of Mining Engineering RESEARCH REPORT: Towards a safe mining environment: the development of a framework to model and manage the risk of flyrock
CHAUKE, Thapelo Welcome
School of Mining Engineering RESEARCH REPORT: Mining through water-bearing fissures at Northam Platinum Mine (Zondereinde)
CHRISTIE, Jasper Johannes
School of Chemical and Metallurgical Engineering DISSERTATION: Application of McCabe-Thiele for Predicting the Performance of Continuous Ion Exchange Systems in Battery Metal Purification
COMBRINCK, Peter-Joe Andrew
School of Chemical and Metallurgical Engineering DISSERTATION: Cyanide use, recovery and reuse at the DRDGOLD ERGO Brakpan Gold Tailings Mine.
DENHERE, Andrew
School of Mining Engineering RESEARCH REPORT: Assessment and improvement of topsoil and subsoil loading and Hauling operation at Manungu Colliery
DIKETANE, Mogodiri Clifford
School of Mining Engineering RESEARCH REPORT: Financial valuation of recovering valuable metals from E-Waste in South Africa: An assessment of waste Printed Circuit Boards
ESTERHUIZEN, Andreas
School of Mining Engineering RESEARCH REPORT: The significance of mobile machine damage on the effectiveness of full-column resin-grouted bolts
GOVENDER, Unerson
School of Electrical and Information Engineering DISSERTATION: Building and testing a digital twin using machine learning within a mining environment in South Africa
GWALA, Thokozani Wiseman
School of Chemical and Metallurgical Engineering RESEARCH REPORT: Rare Earth Elements Extraction from Coal Fly Ash and the application to the South African situation
HARISUNKER, Trishkaya
School of Chemical and Metallurgical Engineering DISSERTATION: Model Development for Reagent Dosing Control of a Flotation Bank Using Model Predictive Control
HINTSA, Afikile Goodman
School of Civil and Environmental Engineering RESEARCH REPORT: Performance-based design considerations for abrasion-resistant concrete for structures in mineral processing plants
JEAN-MARC, Badibanga Mutombo
School of Chemical and Metallurgical Engineering RESEARCH REPORT: Assessment of Leaching Response and recovery enhancement factors of a gold refractory ore
KALAKE, Biki Tebogo
School of Chemical and Metallurgical Engineering DISSERTATION: Leaching of a copper-nickel flotation concentrate in choline chloride based deep eutectic solvents
KALENGA, Moise Mahmoud
School of Chemical and Metallurgical Engineering DISSERTATION: The greening of steel: modifying a novel open bath furnace (OBF) slag for use in cement
KAZENGURA, David Tinotenda
School of Chemical and Metallurgical Engineering DISSERTATION: A process system approach on the optimisation of water and power networks using a discrete-time framework
KHOZA, Akani Trust
School of Mining Engineering RESEARCH REPORT: Bord stability evaluation and support design at Thorncliffe Chrome Mine in the Bushveld Complex: A case study
KUNENE, Bonginkosi Praisegod Njabulo
School of Mining Engineering RESEARCH REPORT: A cost-benefit analysis of transiting to full autonomous surface mining machines in the mining industry
LANGDON, Chad Benoy
School of Mechanical, Industrial and Aeronautical Engineering DISSERTATION: Techno-economic analysis of green hydrogen production through solar in South Africa.
LUKHAIMANE, Tendani Suzan
School of Mining Engineering RESEARCH REPORT: Increased investor interest in Environmental, Social and Governance requirements and its impact on how the South African mining sector prioritizes Sustainability
MABOKO, Malebo Legologela Gift
School of Mechanical, Industrial and Aeronautical Engineering DISSERTATION: Revolutionizing electricity theft detection in smart grids: an edge-centric hybrid machine learning framework with IoT integration
MAFAMADI, Mashau Phanuel
School of Chemical and Metallurgical Engineering DISSERTATION: Optimization of covalently crosslinked graphene oxide-infused polyamide thin film nanocomposite membrane for treating wastewater containing heavy metallic ions
MALEPFANE, Priscilla
School of Mining Engineering RESEARCH REPORT: Determining the impact of haulage optimisation software on addressing open pit mining economic and environmental challenges: a case study
MALULEKE, Lethabo
School of Chemical and Metallurgical Engineering RESEARCH REPORT: Process Simulation for Biofuels Production from Castor Oil
MANUWA, Admire Tinashe
School of Mining Engineering RESEARCH REPORT: Productivity monitoring and improvement through digitalisation of load-haul-dump (LHD) machinery at Mimosa underground operations
MANYANGE, Tendai Noel
School of Mining Engineering RESEARCH REPORT: A rock mass classification system for hard rock platinum mines within the Great Dyke
MANZINI, Tinashe Arison
School of Chemical and Metallurgical Engineering DISSERTATION: An investigation into wear of media in stirred media milling
MASINDI, Shale Innocentia
School of Mining Engineering RESEARCH REPORT: Identifying the effects of the energy transition on the South African coal mining sector
MNGOMA, Sibusiso Siphesihle
School of Chemical and Metallurgical Engineering DISSERTATION: Evaluation of microstructure and mechanical properties of 0.5Cr-0.5Mo-0.25V steam piping after long-term service in creep conditions
MOTSA, Tebogo Teeno
School of Chemical and Metallurgical Engineering DISSERTATION: A Data-driven Soft Sensor for Predicting Grade and Recovery in a Platinum Concentrator
MTHEMBI, Nkiyasi Dolette
School of Mining Engineering RESEARCH REPORT: Slope Stability Review: through the evaluation of a Klipbankfontein instability case study
MUCHANYANGI, Happison
School of Mining Engineering RESEARCH REPORT: Towards improving environmental legislation in artisanal and small-scale mining: a case study of otter mine in Tanzania
MUDIMU, Mapfumo Frank (with Distinction)
School of Electrical and Information Engineering DISSERTATION: Location-Based ancillary services tariffs for Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) sizing and placement for voltage regulation in distribution networks
MUSIYIWA, Farai
School of Mining Engineering DISSERTATION: Multi-resolution modelling of the underground mining workplace by integrating laser scanning and close-range photogrammetry
NAMA, Maseabata Joyce
School of Civil and Environmental Engineering DISSERTATION: The compliance, monitoring and completeness of sanitation data in some Gauteng Municipalities in relation to Shit Flow Diagram requirements
NDEBELE, Mpho
School of Mining Engineering RESEARCH REPORT: Multi-domain based mineral resource estimation in narrow stratabound tabular deposits
NDHLOVU, Patience
School of Mining Engineering RESEARCH REPORT: Optimisation of an open pit diamonds mine's mine to mill value chain using probabilistic value stream mapping
NKOMO, Darlington Brilliant
School of Mining Engineering RESEARCH REPORT: The influence of footwall rock materials on the rock mass response to Seismicity at Mponeng Gold Mine
NKWAMZA, Xolisa
School of Chemical and Metallurgical Engineering DISSERTATION: The Occurrence, Distribution, and Concentration levels of Critical Raw Materials from the Coal Discard of the Witbank Coalfield
NKWANE, Khutso
School of Civil and Environmental Engineering RESEARCH REPORT: Sizing leachate dams and treatment infrastructure in South African landfills
NXUMALO, Duduzile Nontobeko
School of Chemical and Metallurgical Engineering RESEARCH REPORT: Dissolution of Copper from Waste Printed Circuit Boards (PCBs) in Acidic Cupric Chloride Media (H2SO4-CuSO4-NaCl)
NYIRENDA, Mercy Sibongile
School of Civil and Environmental Engineering DISSERTATION: Water quality indices for water distribution network optimisation
PHALA, Ngwakoana Succes
School of Chemical and Metallurgical Engineering DISSERTATION: Development and characterisation of Antibacterial Titanium-based Alloys with copper for additive manufacturing for biomedical applications
PHIRI, Francis Tendai
School of Electrical and Information Engineering DISSERTATION: Machine learning-based computation offloading in Energy-Harvesting 5G Networks
PILUSA, Ernest
School of Electrical and Information Engineering DISSERTATION: Explainable software defect prediction using word embeddings and deep learning
RAMODIKE, Katlego Samantha
School of Chemical and Metallurgical Engineering DISSERTATION: The control of flotation cells at the point of peak air recovery
RANTSO, Liteboho Constant
School of Electrical and Information Engineering DISSERTATION: Transceiver design in IRS assisted cognitive radio NOMA networks
REUSS, Nicholas Matthew
School of Electrical and Information Engineering DISSERTATION: Electrical energy conversion with distributed parameter modelling: a study of a step-down converter
SHINGA, Qiniso Prince
School of Civil and Environmental Engineering RESEARCH REPORT: Enhancing water management in the City of uMhlathuze local municipality in KwaZulu Natal by analysing its historic metering data
STEYN, Emily-Rose Simoes (with Distinction)
School of Electrical and Information Engineering DISSERTATION: Measuring quality of life in Gauteng using satellite images and machine learning
SULIMAN, Mohammed Ali Mohammed
School of Mining Engineering RESEARCH REPORT: Cut-off grade optimisation at Ad'Duwayhi Mine in Saudi Arabia
SYAMUSANA, Shoma
School of Mining Engineering RESEARCH REPORT: Slope stability management using 2D analysis methods at Chingola open pits F and D of Konkola Copper Mines
THULO, Tsireletso Francinah
School of Civil and Environmental Engineering RESEARCH REPORT: An investigation into the feasible transport distance for repurposing construction rubble in Johannesburg, South Africa
TSHEOGA, Kamogelo Kitikiti
School of Chemical and Metallurgical Engineering DISSERTATION: Synthesis and Optimization of a Water Network Scheme for a Multipurpose Multiproduct Textile Dyeing Facility: An Industrial Case Study
WARRENER, Nicholas Myles (with Distinction)
School of Electrical and Information Engineering DISSERTATION: Detecting reversals in Earth's magnetic field using continuous core samples: a new measurement system
ZUNGUNDE, James Itai
School of Electrical and Information Engineering DISSERTATION: Cell-Free massive MIMO NOMA network with machine learning aided user association and power allocation
Master of Science in Engineering Management
GOVENDER, Rajesan RESEARCH REPORT: An examination of the impact of leadership style on DRA Global's talent retention and employee development in remote copper mining projects in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC).
OLOO, Fiona Rose Amondi (with Distinction) RESEARCH REPORT: Towards standardized project management practices to improve renewable energy based microgrid design and deployment in South Africa
Master of Science in Industrial Engineering
MUDAU, Tshimangadzo Nelly RESEARCH REPORT: Mitigating supply chain disruptions in South African steelmaking industry.
Master of Science in Mechanical Engineering
CHUNDUNSING, Abhay Nookant Netrapal DISSERTATION: Miniaturised charpy impact toughness testing for the characterisation of laser powder bed fusion-built and laser shock peened Ti-6Al-4V.
GOMEZ-OLIVE FERNANDEZ, Marc DISSERTATION: Film cooling jet lift-off under a streamwise pressure gradient at different blowing ratios
MATIANE, Arnold Ripfumelo DISSERTATION: Fuel saving performance of low rolling resistance tyres on heavy goods vehicles.
Master of Urban Studies
GAAYUONI, Joachim
Urban Management RESEARCH REPORT: The use of public transport to implement a polycentric development model in Sekondi-Takoradi
LAURIE, Lindsay Elaine YaTian
Sustainable Energy Efficient Cities RESEARCH REPORT: Factors motivating sustainable transport behaviour. a case of Gautrain Passengers
MAKWELA, Michael
Urban Management RESEARCH REPORT: Digital addressing in South Africa: as a form of citizenship, inclusivity, and catalyst for faster service delivery in informal settlements
MCHUNU, Sifiso Mpilonhle (with Distinction)
Sustainable Energy Efficient Cities RESEARCH REPORT: Assessing the outcomes of green bond-funded projects on renewable energy development and transition to a low-carbon energy system within South-Africa - A case study of Nedbank's renewable energy bonds
PASURAYI, Sihle Faith
Urban Management RESEARCH REPORT: Kuva Mutowra Kwakaoma. A systematic investigation of the factors affecting the provision of quality health care to foreign nationals by public health care providers: the case of migrant woman in Alexandra, South Africa
RAMULONGO, Mashaka
Urban Management RESEARCH REPORT: Assessing the implementation of the integrated development plan and public participation Kha Masipala Wa Makhado (in Makhado Local Municipality)
SELEMENA, Kolobetso Iponeng
Urban Management RESEARCH REPORT: Community centers as models for sustainability and integration: Making a case for Stjwetla, Johannesburg
Bachelor of Architectural Studies Honours
MOJAPELO, Keamogetswe Maditsi
NCALO, Sibulele
NTLATLENG, Neo Khumo
NYOKA, David
RAMOHLOLA, Samuel Kagiso
Bachelor of Science Honours in Construction Management
CHILWANE, Sekwati Katimamolilo
MABILO, Mahlatse Thomas
MADUBANE, Anelisa
MASIWANA, Marubini Sandra
MOLIBELI, Kananelo Thato
MOTINGOE, Elsie Dineo
NGOBENI, Tsundzuxa Intelligent
Bachelor of Science Honours in Property Studies
FANKOMO, Precious Dakalo
MARAGA, Phophi
MDLULI, Khaya Lusendvo Chawe
MKHIZE, Stanley Samkele
Bachelor of Science Honours in Quantity Surveying
CANCA, Qaqambile
FIKA, Sipokuhle
GOBODO, Wonga Mzuvukile
GOLA, Yamnkela
GUMEDE, Andile
HLATSHWAYO, Sive Unathi (with Distinction)
JAMA, Frank Gcinile
KANYASA, Gamuchirai Thandeka
KANYE, Nosimilo
Bachelor of Science Honours in Property Studies
Bachelor of Science Honours in Property Studies
Bachelor of Science Honours in Property Studies
Bachelor of Science Honours in Property Studies
KHOZA, Tsakani Tracy
KHUMALO, Thando Kamogelo
KLAAS, Xola
LANGA, Absalom Sifiso
MANDLATE, Mike
MARARENI, Chuma Simamkele
MGWILI, Hombakazi Aviwe
MKHIZE, Nolwazi Masechaba
MKUNGO, Nelson Siphephelo
MNGOMEZULU, Mduduzi Excellent
MUTSHINYALI, Aluvhagiwi Daffy
NKOSI, Njabulo Knowledge
NOMVALO, Usiphe
NTOLOSI, Babalwa
NXUMALO, Siyabonga Pumelelo
PHALANNDWA, Shonisani Aaron
RAMAOTSWA, Mankati Mahlogonolo
RAMBAU, Kamogelo
SEBETHA, Moseto Edward
SENOKWANE, Meisie Catherine
SHUMBA, Matipa Darren Mandibvira
SINDANE, Lafika Owethu
TSHABALALA, Thando
Bachelor of Science Honours in Urban and Regional Planning
FAKUDE, Phumla De-dray
MATSUNYANE, Mbali Rose
Bachelor of Science in Engineering-Aeronautical Engineering
ALAGBAOSO, Naledi Amira Chigozie
DAVIDS, Micaela Jade
MAKATU, Bruno Lutendo
MNGADI, Mawande Msizi
MOODLEY, Sashin
PHUSEWA, Mutalukanyi
SODI, Sagale Mmapula
WESTMAN, Jason Charles
Bachelor of Science in Engineering-Chemical Engineering
ESSOP, Aalisha
MTSHALI, Aphiwe Nomahlubi
PHALANE, Angel Motsoadi
TSHINGANA, Esakhe Irvin
Bachelor of Science in Engineering-Civil Engineering
BOPAPE, Mathebe Maite
KÖSTLIN, Bettina Simone
MAGALELA, Rendani Trevor
MEMESE, Ayabonga Ivan
MOHLABE, Bohtlale Wisdom
MOLOPYANE, Letlotlo Berend
TSEMATSE, Tsematse Reabetswe Thabo
Bachelor of Science in Engineering-Electrical Engineering
MALULEKA, Lwazi Shanon
NGIRAZI, Rutendo Hildah
NXUMALO, Siphelele
STEWART, Claire Donna
Bachelor of Science in Engineering-Electrical Engineering - Information Engineering
HATZIPANIS, Petros Alexandros
RAPER, Bevan Charles
TSHABALALA, Thabo Peter
Bachelor of Science in Engineering-Industrial Engineering
BIENDA SALEH, David
CHAUKE, Mpfuxeto
GANGADAYAL, Nashil Devendra
MPHALOANE, Lebajoa John
MUSORA, Godwin Tinotenda
SEGOABE, Aobakwe Blessing
Bachelor of Science in Engineering-Mechanical Engineering
ADAMS, Vinchenzlo Ustin
AREK-BAWA, Oghenevese Aimanesi Osikhna
CHIKASHA, Phillemon
DLAMINI, Siphelele Simphiwe
GOVENDER, Santhiran
JOSELOWITZ, Jake Brett
LETLHAKU, Kago
MATHOHO, Rolaedzwa
MAVHUNGU, Tiyisela
MOKOENA, Tumiso Solomon
MPHAGA, Gumani Reuben
NDALA, Sam Chinana
NEVHUFUMBA, Tshovhonala
PETERSEN, Waylin Tre
STEIN, Adam Victor
TORRES, Fabio Pedro Santos
Bachelor of Science in Engineering-Metallurgy and Materials Engineering
DLOMO, Sizwe
MOROSI, Motshehi Promise
MURAGA, Zwavhudi Lufuno
NDEBELE, Zanesizwe Phunyukabemphethe Xolani
Bachelor of Science in Engineering-Mining Engineering
DEE, Mzukisi Silas
MATSHOMO, Rolivhuwa Given
MBALISO, Someleze
MOKGOTLE, Katlego
Bachelor of Science in Property Studies
NGUNJIRI, Nderitu Tito
Bachelor of Architectural Studies
BULBULIA, Mujaahid
NDIMANDE, Mthokozisi Marvin
NONYANA, Christina Phumzile
SEROBANYANE, Poloko Relebohile
TSOTETSI, Tebogo Wiseman
MOALUSI, Nothando Xoliswa
Bachelor of Engineering Science-Digital Arts
MJIYAKO, Ngcweti Digital Arts
Bachelor of Science in Construction Studies
DZIMUNWE, Tinotenda Edwin
GUMEDE, Simiso
MAHLANGU, Thokozani
MALOMA, Ohrogheneome Hilary
MANANYETSO, Kagiso Prince
MBELE, Sibabalwe Nelson
MDOLO, Sesethu
Bachelor of Science in Construction Studies (in the Field of Property Studies)
Bachelor of Science in Construction Studies (in the Field of Property Studies)
MUDAMBURI, Munashe Tom Howard
MWELASE, Tebogo Nqobile
RAPHUTI, Gift
SEABE, Letlhabile Botlhale
SHELEMBE, Lerato Samantha
SIWELA, Mzwakhe Khanya
Bachelor of Science in Construction Studies (in the Field of Property Studies)
Bachelor of Science in Urban and Regional Planning
CHITIYO, Enrique Ziwai
FREDERICKS, Ethan Kyle
GIBBS, Sankara
NGIDI, Asanda
Postgraduate Diploma in Construction Management
LAMANI, Maxhosa Health and Safety Management
LUMISI, Moleli Construction Project Management
NDZUZO, Bonga Procurement and Delivery Management
Postgraduate Diploma in Engineering
DZINOREVA, Geraldine
JORDAAN, Phumile
KOMANE, Kopano Makgale
MAJODINA, Lindikhaya
MASEMOLA, Tebogo Pobetjie
MASHININI, Zanele Theodora
MAWILA, Themba McNolan
MGAGA, Lerato Sive
MOLAUDI, Themba Reuben
MONARENG, Ramanthe Phillimon
School of Electrical and Information Engineering
School of Electrical and Information Engineering
School of Mechanical, Industrial and Aeronautical Engineering
School of Chemical and Metallurgical Engineering
School of Chemical and Metallurgical Engineering
School of Mechanical, Industrial and Aeronautical Engineering
School of Mechanical, Industrial and Aeronautical Engineering
School of Mechanical, Industrial and Aeronautical Engineering
School of Mechanical, Industrial and Aeronautical Engineering
School of Chemical and Metallurgical Engineering
MSIBI, Jaqueline Tlou
NGEMA, Sibonginkosi Thandanani
NGOBENI, Tintswalo
SHAI, Mokholwana Prudence
SIKHOSANA, Sandile
SIMELELA, Otsile Johnson
SITHOLE, Lungelo Phinda
SITHOLE, Mpumelelo Bettinah Paragon
SONI, Akhil Nicolas
Postgraduate Diploma in Planning
SEGONECO, Macmillan Morena
School of Chemical and Metallurgical Engineering
School of Chemical and Metallurgical Engineering
School of Mechanical, Industrial and Aeronautical Engineering
School of Mechanical, Industrial and Aeronautical Engineering
School of Mechanical, Industrial and Aeronautical Engineering
School of Mechanical, Industrial and Aeronautical Engineering
School of Electrical and Information Engineering
School of Mechanical, Industrial and Aeronautical Engineering
School of Mechanical, Industrial and Aeronautical Engineering
Postgraduate Diploma in Property Development and Management
MAHLANGU, Rose Phindile
MASHIQA, Bandisiwe
MBEBE, Sikelelwa
SELEPE, Tshepo Innocentia
TAVUYANAGO, Ngonidzashe
Facilities Management
Facilities Management
Facilities Management
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)
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.