PhD
Graduation Ceremony
Date: 09 December
Time: 17:00
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 17:00
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 SCIENCE
DEAN:
PROFESSOR N CHETTY BSc Hons (Natal) MS PhD (U. Illinois Urbana -Champaign) MASSAf MSAIP
Master of Science
ABUBAKAR, Mohamed Geography, Archaeology and Environmental Studies DISSERTATION: The influence of El Niño Southern Oscillation (ENSO) on rainfall over the mega-dam region of South Africa
ALAMIN, Hadeel Fudlalla Chemistry DISSERTATION: First investigation of micro-plastic pollution in the River Nile in Khartoum, Sudan: using Nile Tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus) as a bio-indicator
BALDWIN, Cameron Lance Physics DISSERTATION: Development of new radiation hard materials with high secondary electron emission yield for the nuclear industry
BALOYI, Kamogelo Geophysics DISSERTATION: Using open source InSAR to monitor the Jagersfontein tailings dam
BALOYI, Shalati eScience RESEARCH REPORT: An empirical study of the impact of COVID-19 on mineral commodity prices and its implications for industrial policy
BATTEY, Aarifah (with Distinction)
Molecular and Cell Biology DISSERTATION: Investigating the antibacterial activities of novel silver(i) phosphine complexes against bacteria that contribute towards the formation of biofilms in wounds
BISNATH, Celine Animal, Plant and Environmental Sciences DISSERTATION: The relationship between landscape functional patch type and soil ecotoxicity along a pollution gradient
BOTHA, Katinka Animal, Plant and Environmental Sciences DISSERTATION: How energy and thermal landscapes influence habitat use in chacma baboons ( Papio ursinus)
BROVKO, Oleg Geophysics DISSERTATION: Geophysical investigation of the Tsabong Kimberlite Field
BULLAH, Nikita
Geography, Archaeology and Environmental Studies DISSERTATION: Using machine learning to identify the spatial extent of acid mine drainage from gold mining activities in Gauteng, South Africa
BUTLER, Dylan Matthew
Geography, Archaeology and Environmental Studies DISSERTATION: A comprehensive environmental assessment of the Braamfontein Spruit and surrounding tributaries in Northern Johannesburg in 2023 and 2024
CHABUMBA, Daisy Reneilwe eScience RESEARCH REPORT : Markov chain monte carlo methods vs. variational inference approaches in posterior density estimation for bayesian neural networks
CHETTY, Caitlyn Uraesha (with Distinction) Molecular and Cell Biology
DISSERTATION: The immunomodulatory effects of acute in vitro 1,25D3 supplementation on the metabolic profiles of monocytes and monocyte-derived macrophages
CHIRKOOT, Mikhail Computer Science
DISSERTATION: Query specific pruning strategies in Bayesian networks for inference efficiency
CRANSWICK, Russell Vos
Economic Geology
RESEARCH REPORT: Geophysical characterisation of orthomagmatic nickel-copper sulphide satellites around Madziwa mine, Zimbabwe
DEKKER, Celéste Geography, Archaeology and Environmental Studies
DISSERTATION: The development and use of a GIS model to map Mozambique tilapia pond aquaculture site suitability for the Limpopo province of South Africa
DHLAMINI, Neliswa Proserpina
Animal, Plant and Environmental Sciences
DISSERTATION: Challenges and opportunities of corporate climate action in South Africa: an investigation using the Aqal framework of the integral theory
DLAMINI, Lubanzi Zolibonga Desree (with Distinction) Geography, Archaeology and Environmental Studies
DISSERTATION: Comparing the performance of mobile and static LiDAR in detecting underground rock deformation
DOFI, Iviwe Chemistry
DISSERTATION: Method optimisation of dispersive liquid-liquid microextraction (DLLME) for the determination of polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) in groundwater samples: case of borehole waters in North West province, South Africa
DUMA, Zolile Bronwyn
Environmental Sciences RESEARCH REPORT: Exploring students' attitudes and perceptions of environmental sustainability at the University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg
ESSOP, Luthfiyyah (with Distinction) Chemistry
DISSERTATION: Towards the synthesis of polycyclic n-heterocyclic compounds from malic acid as an acyclic bio-renewable source
FLOWERS, James David John (with Distinction)
DISSERTATION: Connected domination number, average distance and their application in drug design
FOKAM, Manuel Arnol
DISSERTATION: A novel data augmentation framework for contrastive self-supervised learning
FUSIRAI, Fadzanai Locardia
Mathematics
Computer Science
Chemistry
DISSERTATION: Seasonal trends in trace metals and anions and their human health risk assessment in the surface water of the Vaal River, South Africa
GEBRESELASSIE, Marrian Haileselassie
Data Science RESEARCH REPORT: Investigating the integration of Interoception in a reinforcement learning pipeline
GOVENDER, Damisha
Geology
DISSERTATION: Exploring the influence of geological characteristics, surface texture, and surface energy of crushed rock aggregates on the compressive strength of concrete
GQOBA, Avuya (with Distinction)
Chemistry
DISSERTATION: Multi-walled carbon nanotube-supported transition metal oxides as OER electrocatalysts in alkaline media
GUVAKUVA, Zanele
Environmental Sciences RESEARCH REPORT: Livelihoods and natural resource management in fast-track lithium mining in Arcturus rural community in Zimbabwe
HILL, William Skipsey (with Distinction)
Computer Science DISSERTATION: Mitigating class co-occurrence ambiguity in weakly supervised semantic segmentation with cross image attention
HLONGWANE, Ndumiso Ivin
Animal, Plant and Environmental Sciences DISSERTATION: Taxonomy, ecology, and conservation of selected rare and threatened Kniphofia species
HLUNGWANE, Rhulani
Geography, Archaeology and Environmental Studies DISSERTATION: Assessing perceptions of environmental management in the construction industry: a case study of construction companies in the Gauteng Province
JANSE VAN RENSBURG, Ilanka (with Distinction)
Animal, Plant and Environmental Sciences DISSERTATION: Potential functional trade-offs in skeletal muscle and vertebrae characteristics between three ventrally keeled and smooth arboreal snake species (Philothamnus)
KEIKABILE, Zanele
Economic Geology RESEARCH REPORT: A field, petrographic and geochemical investigation of norite and anorthosite rocks related to the potholed Merensky Reef sub-facies at Northam Platinum Zondereinde mine, Western Bushveld Complex
KHAMPEPE, Ramasedi Mokhothu (with Distinction)
Mathematics DISSERTATION: Graph duals and operators
LAMBERTON, Liam Environmental Sciences RESEARCH REPORT: Assessing the current and future distributions of two invasive species in the Inkomati water management area, South Africa
LAXTON, Gregory Stephen
Data Science RESEARCH REPORT: Evaluating elastic weight consolidation across a taxonomy of continual learning scenarios
LIBALE, Marvin Embodokah Chemistry DISSERTATION: Metal hydroxide modified functionalised onion-like carbons for use in supercapacitors
LIU, Ireton (with Distinction)
Computer Science DISSERTATION: Photorealistic reconstruction of the Sterkfontein caves using novel view synthesis
LOATE, Victor (with Distinction)
Environmental Sciences RESEARCH REPORT : Evaluation of the implementation of the first-generation Waterberg - Bojanala priority area air quality management plan (AQMP)
LOOKMANJEE, Abuzer Seifuddin (with Distinction)
Mathematics DISSERTATION: Intuitionistic correspondence theory
MAABANE, Berry Medical Physics RESEARCH REPORT: The dosimetric impact of setup errors in image-guided radiotherapy
MABANNE, Thomas Chemistry DISSERTATION: Fabrication of transition and alkali metal-based quaternary nanoparticle counter electrodes for application in dye sensitised solar cells
MABULA, Tholoana Matsie
Hydrogeology RESEARCH REPORT: Site suitability assessment for managed aquifer recharge: a case study of the City of Johannesburg Metropolitan Area, South Africa
MAGWIRO, Rumbidzai Pamela
Animal, Plant and Environmental Sciences DISSERTATION: Human-wildlife conflict in the Gonarezhou National Park landscape, Zimbabwe, and its implications for a co-management mitigation strategy
MAJEKE, Bongani
Geographical Information Systems and Remote Sensing RESEARCH REPORT: Development of GIS based composite drought monitoring model for spatio-temporal drought vulnerability assessment at Intsika Yethu, South Africa
MAKHADO, Phindulo Ezekiel (with Distinction)
Computer Science DISSERTATION: Evaluating the impact of neural network architecture on the performance of federated learning algorithms
MAKHANYE, Treasure Thando Phumelele (with Distinction)
Geography, Archaeology and Environmental Studies
DISSERTATION: Persistent power outages in Daveyton township: unveiling their nature, impacts, and socio-spatial distribution
MAKHUBELA, Melba Makosha
Animal, Plant and Environmental Sciences DISSERTATION: The effect of low temperatures on the fourth-instar larvae of different strains of Anopheles arabiensis (Diptera: Culicidae)
MALATJI, Vincent Mmamokidi
Economic Geology RESEARCH REPORT: Mineralogical and geochemical investigation of CGM mineralised pegmatite, southwest of Uis, Namibia
MANAPE, Makoko Campbell (with Distinction) Mathematics DISSERTATION: Arithmetic functions of Fibonacci and Lucas numbers
MANDA, Keneilwe Mercy eScience RESEARCH REPORT: The impact of liquidity in markowitz portfolio optimisation - case study in South African mining landscape
MANSOOR, Yusuf eScience
RESEARCH REPORT: Assessment of thermal comfort amongst cyclists and spectators during the 947 Ride Joburg cycle challenge using biometeorological indices
MANYERE, Obvious Environmental Sciences
RESEARCH REPORT: Investigating the effectiveness of rock mulching and fungcoal™ technologies at the tip micro pit of Kromdraai section of Khwezela colliery, Thungela resources in South Arica
MARANGE, Sheena Caroline
Geography, Archaeology and Environmental Studies DISSERTATION: Analysing challenges of solid waste management in low-income communities in South Africa: a case study of Alexandra, Johannesburg
MARINAKI, Alexi Marin (with Distinction)
Geography, Archaeology and Environmental Studies DISSERTATION: The impact of southwest Indian Ocean tropical cyclones on transient weather conditions in Réunion
MASHIANE, Oline Manare Environmental Sciences RESEARCH REPORT: The adaptive capacity of smallholder mixed farmers to the impacts of climate change in Capricorn district, Limpopo province, South Africa
MATIMBA, Charmaine Chido (with Distinction) Molecular and Cell Biology DISSERTATION: Autophosphorylation and Ca2+ - binding alter the conformational landscape of Plasmodium falciparum Ca2+ dependent protein kinase 1, impacting stability and ligand binding: contextualising PTM using computational modelling
MATU, Unathi Neo Artificial Intelligence RESEARCH REPORT: A multi-agent reinforcement learning framework for portfolio management
MAYERE, Kenford
Geographical Information Systems and Remote Sensing RESEARCH REPORT: Understanding the spatiotemporal patterns of cholera incidence in Malawi using geospatial approach
MCKIE, Edwin James (with Distinction)
Physics DISSERTATION: Search for gamma-ray sources in the Large Magellanic Cloud with H.E.S.S
MDAKANE, Nduduzo Gugulethu
Chemistry DISSERTATION: Exploring greener alternative synthetic routes to clopidogrel and repaglinide
MKHIZE, Sakhile Derick
Geography, Archaeology and Environmental Studies DISSERTATION: An integrated approach to evaluate the ecological risk of toxic metals in the Krugersdorp Nature Reserve of South Africa
MKHUMBUZA, Light (with Distinction)
Physics DISSERTATION: Propagation and control of optical angular momentum
MNGUNI, Busisiwe Felicity (with Distinction)
Chemistry DISSERTATION: Text mining of water quality data obtained from online platforms
MODISE, Neville Mogotsinyana Remoneilwe
Computer Science DISSERTATION: Leveraging generative adversarial networks to mitigate racial biases in skin cancer detection
MOEMA, Onkgopotse Reabetswe Bianca
Molecular and Cell Biology DISSERTATION: Metabolic engineering of Kluyveromyces lactis to produce the universal cannabinoid precursor, olivetolic acid
MOHULI, Kamogelo Geirge Jnr
Geography, Archaeology and Environmental Studies DISSERTATION: Evaluation of sanitation conditions in rural communities toward the attainment of sustainable development goal 6 in Limpopo province, South Africa: a mixed methods approach
MONGARE, Raphael Nyanamba (with Distinction)
Geography, Archaeology and Environmental Studies DISSERTATION: Spatial modeling of tsetse fly ( Glossina spp.) and animal African trypanosomiasis across Kenya
MOSALA, Karabo (with Distinction) Physics DISSERTATION: Searches for new Bosons at future collider environments
MOTEBANG, Keabetsoe Edith
Geographical Information Systems and Remote Sensing RESEARCH REPORT: Spatial prediction and evaluation of net primary productivity in Lesotho using advanced geospatial models
MOTHIBE, Senate Leseli Computer Science DISSERTATION: Robust proximal policy optimisation for biped robot gaits and stopping procedures
MOYO, Tjedu Environmental Sciences RESEARCH REPORT: Perspectives on the implications of climate change on maternal health in Mangwe District, Ward 14 of Zimbabwe
MTHEMBU, Mamahludisa Alinah
Geography, Archaeology and Environmental Studies DISSERTATION: Multi - hazard risk perception: a case study of two informal settlements in Mamelodi township, Pretoria
MTHEMBU, Xolani Khethukuthula Statistics DISSERTATION: Regularised deep survival neural networks
MTHIYANE, Zamazwi Lukhanyiso Chemistry DISSERTATION: Chemical profiling of organic pollutants in the Vaal River Catchment area with possible links to antibiotic resistance
MUDAU, Mulweli (with Distinction)
Computational and Applied Mathematics DISSERTATION: An investigative study on the simple iteration method for solving boundary layer flow problems
MUUNGANI, Jamie Farai
Environmental Sciences RESEARCH REPORT: The net zero agenda in South Africa: perspectives on the role of institutional frameworks and policy in the net zero transition
NAIDOO, Sheslin (with Distinction)
Computer Science DISSERTATION: Trustworthy semi automatic short answer grading using active learning and bootstrapping
NAIK, Drashti Bhupendrakumar
Geographical Information Systems and Remote Sensing RESEARCH REPORT: Integrating Sentinel-1 SAR imagery and GIS analysis to assess urban infrastructure damage and accessibility in Gaza City: a principled approach to geoscience
NAUSCHUTZ, Camden Nicholas
Animal, Plant and Environmental Sciences DISSERTATION: Johannesburg’s water scarcity: understanding and addressing current challenges
NEL, Andre Jonathan Molecular and Cell Biology DISSERTATION: Probing lncRNA ANRIL function after cisplatin-mediated DNA damage in oesophageal squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) cells
NNAJI, Chinedu Jude Physics DISSERTATION: Search for Gamma-Ray Emission from the Supernova Remnant SN 1987A with H.E.S.S.
NSIBANDE, Lindokuhle Lucia
Geography, Archaeology and Environmental Studies DISSERTATION: An assessment of environmental risks associated with metal pollution in the Vaal River, South Africa
NYAMAZANA, Tafara
Data Science RESEARCH REPORT: Mitigating bias in recommender systems: a comparative analysis of unfairness mitigation techniques
PASQUES, Hannah Archaeology DISSERTATION: A zooarchaeological analysis of the MSA I and MSA II lower large mammal remains from Klasies river cave 1/1a
PAYNE, Chloe Maureen
Animal, Plant and Environmental Sciences DISSERTATION: Factors influencing long- and short-term changes in the herbaceous composition of a semi-arid African savanna
PETERSEN, Cher Soné
Geographical Information Systems and Remote Sensing RESEARCH REPORT: Landslide susceptibility using support vector machines (SVM) and random forest (RF) machine learning approaches: a case for the Durban 2022 flood event
PHASHE, Thapelo Clive Environmental Sciences RESEARCH REPORT: Phytoremediation of chrome mine tailings using Vetiver grass and Moringa Biostimulant
PHIHLELA, Kgothatso Elizabeth
Hydrogeology RESEARCH REPORT: An investigation of the occurrence and fate of emerging contaminants in water resources: a case study of the Northern Cape Province
RADITLHALO, Mmankedi Mittah
Geographical Information Systems and Remote Sensing RESEARCH REPORT: Investigating the use of planet scope and google earth imagery for estimating population in Pretoria’s Woodlands informal settlements to address spatial gaps in social and demographic data
RAMLALL, Rozeena
Environmental Sciences RESEARCH REPORT: Assessment of policy frameworks and regulatory mechanisms for the development of a hydrogen economy in South Africa
RANTLHWATLHWA, Nkagiseng Medical Physics RESEARCH REPORT: Establishing optimum VMAT planning protocols for localised prostate cancer
SCHOMMARZ, Armin Economic Geology RESEARCH REPORT: The Nai-Nais Pegmatite Belt, Damara Orogen, Namibia: a mineralogical, geochemical, and structural investigation
SHANDU, Irvin Doctor (with Distinction)
Geographical Information Systems and Remote Sensing RESEARCH REPORT: An integration of geospatial modelling and machine learning techniques for mapping groundwater potential zones in Nelson Mandela Bay, South Africa
SIBANDA, Kudzai Carlos eScience RESEARCH REPORT: Predicting at risk students using deep learning and intervention recommendation with counterfactual reasoning
SIBIYA, Swelihle Sinothile
Geographical Information Systems and Remote Sensing RESEARCH REPORT: Investigating temporal and spatial patterns of wildfire emissions in Capricorn district, Limpopo Province, South Africa
SITHOLE, Likwa
Geographical Information Systems and Remote Sensing RESEARCH REPORT: Classification of informal settlements using novel object- based machine learning algorithms and drone imagery, Slovo Park, Johannesburg, South Africa
SITHOLE, Sandiso Blessing eScience RESEARCH REPORT : Addressing class imbalance in credit scoring datasets: evaluating sampling techniques and introducing a novel approach
TAOLE, Kutlwano Rethabile
Geographical Information Systems and Remote Sensing RESEARCH REPORT: Development of a GIS-based interactive border cave model using structure from motion photogrammetry techniques
TAYLOR, Liam Joseph (with Distinction)
Animal, Plant and Environmental Sciences DISSERTATION: Do baobab trees matter? Investigating the ecological repercussions of elephant-induced tree mortality on avian assemblages
TSHEHLA, Boipelo Mankale Esther Hydrogeology RESEARCH REPORT: Chemical characterisation of leachate and identifying groundwater pollution plumes at the Hatherley landfill site, Pretoria, South Africa
TSHIOVHE, Khuthadzo eScience RESEARCH REPORT: Comparative analysis of divergence measures in variational inference for image clustering
VAN DER SPUY, Arthur Bredenkamp (with Distinction) Physics
DISSERTATION: ThCr2Si2-type structured materials and an investigation into their properties
VAN WYK, David Mathematics DISSERTATION: On the reconstruction of graphs
VARACHHIA, Yusuf (with Distinction)
Computer Science DISSERTATION: Adaptive pruning in sum-product networks using depth-based threshold scaling
VOGT, Alex (with Distinction)
Computer Science DISSERTATION: Utilising policy switching and explainability to provide insight into play-style behaviours
WHITTAKER, Nicholas Jonathan (with Distinction)
Computational and Applied Mathematics DISSERTATION: The aerodynamics of wind turbine blades
ZULU, Lethukuthula Velenkosini Nhlalenhle
Computational and Applied Mathematics DISSERTATION: A family of exact solutions for a class of nonlinear fin equations
Bachelor of Science Honours
BAKER, Lunga Lucky
Animal, Plant and Environmental Sciences
BANYA, Asakhe Geology
CHIGUDU, Annie Nyasha (with Distinction)
Geographic Information System and Remote Sensing
DALAMBA, Noluthando Chemistry
DLAMINI, Neliswa Anastacia
Genetics and Developmental Biology
DUBULA, Lethokuhle Nhlakanipho Mathematical Sciences
GXUMISA, Amkelwa Geography
HATTINGH, Sanelisiwe Amanda
Animal, Plant and Environmental Sciences
JAMANGILE, Rita Big Data Analytics
JANTJIES, Onodwa
Animal, Plant and Environmental Sciences
JELE, Jonathan Nqoba Saneliso Big Data Analytics
KHOMO, Falatsi Andrew Geophysics
KHUMALO, Sikhulile Sithabile
LANGA, Lerato
Animal, Plant and Environmental Sciences
Animal, Plant and Environmental Sciences
LEKALA, Kholofelo Fortune Computer Science
MADIMABE, Nnela Queen
MAGUGA, Rofhiwa
Animal, Plant and Environmental Sciences
Animal, Plant and Environmental Sciences
MAKGATO, Lethabo Allen Physics
MAKGOKA, Mosa Marlon
Animal, Plant and Environmental Sciences
MAKHOMBOTHI, Nomaswazi Geology
MKHIZE, Busisiwe Celest
MODISANE, Boitumelo
Animal, Plant and Environmental Sciences
Animal, Plant and Environmental Sciences
MOETI, Kamogelo Natasha Palaeontology
MOKHOHLANE, Nteboheleng Gladys Palaeontology
MOKHOSI, Lemogang Geology
MOSALA, Karabo Physics
MUROVHI, Tshifhiwa Amos Mathematical Sciences
NDAMANE, Bahle Chemistry
NDAMASE, Yanga Okwethu Geography
NDHLOVU, Paballo Victor (with Distinction) Physics
NDLOVU, Riot Computer Science
NGCOBO, Minenhle Animal, Plant and Environmental Sciences
NGONYAMA, Marvelous Animal, Plant and Environmental Sciences
RAMOLULA, Tumelo Faith Geography, Archaeology and Environmental Studies
SIKHOSANA, Leroy Computational and Applied Mathematics
SITHOLE, Mary Nokuthula (with Distinction) Geology
SITOLE, Ntokozo Joy Geography
VAN DEN BERG, Dario Nicolas (with Distinction) Physics
ZITHA, Vuyani Big Data Analytics
ZWANE, Sinothile Yolanda (Posthumously) Mathematical Statistics
Bachelor of Science
AMOD, Saabira Sidra
CHILIZA, Andiswamandla Ria Sinqobile
COLBY, Kevin Ryan
DLAMINI, Neliswa Anastacia
FIKENI, Anathi
GANGAN, Justin Daniel
GITHUKA, Khayalethu Mburu
HATTINGH, Sanelisiwe Amanda
HLUBI, Lindelwa Zama
JACA, Kwanele
KIBE, Lesedi
KUDUBE, Kefentse Yvette
LEDWABA, Karabo Pollett
LEHUTJO, Kabelo William
LEKALA, Kholofelo Fortune
MABAPA, Mahlodi
MAHLANGU, Siyabonga Sphephile
MAHLANGU, Zandile Precious
MAHLANZA, Sean Nyasha
MAKGAMATHA, Mangolo Alphy
MAKHALEMELE, Mohumutsi
MAKOFANE, Mpho Daisy
MAMABOLO, Palesa Blessing
MAREMELA, Tshiamo
MAROPE, Khumoetsile Carol
MASALA, Mukhethwa
MASIPA, Kgotlelelo Ebenezer
MATEYISE, Inathi
MATOLA, Aobakwe Carlos
MAZIBUKO, Simphiwe Mandla
MBELE, Sindiswa Ronald
MBOKAZI, Thembeka Thandolwethu
MBULI, Nosizo
MELETSE, Brudance Tlou
MGAGULE, Athini
MNGOMA, Maggie Busisiswe
MNGUNI, Busisiwe
MOFAMERE, Karabo Joshua
MOHOHOMA, Gabriel Moloko
MOKHESENG, Lebohang
MONGWE, Khatisani Xingwavila
MOYO, Michelle Janice (with Distinction)
MTHEMBU, Olwethu Unathi
MTSHALI, Asanda
MUGABI, Mutheo
NAIDOO, Keanu James
NDLOVU, Anele
NDLOVU, Olwethu
NGOBENI, Nhlayo Neil
NGONYAMA, Marvelous
NGQONDOYI, Yolokazi
NGWENYA, Londeka Kgaogelo
NHLABATHI, Cebolenkosi Halalisani Nkosinathi
NKOSI, Senzo Lindikhaya
NKOSI, Siyabonga Prince
NTLEMO, Khanani Vanessa
NTULI, Siphephelo Nceku
NXUMALO, Nqubenhle Thembelihle
OMAR, Muhammad Aakil
PIENAAR, Anri
PILLAY, Matthew
RADEBE, Thabile
RAHLAHA, Lebeko Richard
RAMBAU, Hulisani
RAMMEKOA, Obakeng
RAMUHASHI, Mafukazwothe
RAPITA, Lebohang
SEKHALA, Nolwazi Swazi
SEKHULA, Nonhlanhla Dzunani
SITHOLE, Senzo Gift
SOVARA, Lesedi Affrey
TLADI, Muntu Glenda Mpho
TLAKA, Sebongile
TSABEDZE, Seluleko Andy
TSHABALALA, Thabelo Marcia
TUKU, Ayanda
Postgraduate Diploma in Science
DLAMINI, Ndumiso James
TWALA, Nobukhosi Percy
TWALA, Nosipho Precious
YAQOOB, Asma
ZIKHAYI, Bryan
ZULU, S'bongakonke Hopewell
ZWANE, Nonhlanhla Noluthando
Data Science
HASI, Linda Innovation and Entrepreneurship
KA-MBONANE, Ismat Palesa Hlengiwe
MARUMOLOE, Pheletso (with Distinction)
MBOPHA, Likamva
MKHIZE, Sibusiso Victor
Data Science
Data Science
Data Science
Data Science
MOKASI, Wisdom (with Distinction) Innovation and Entrepreneurship
MOLAKENG, Khiba Prince (with Distinction)
NEMUKULA, Innocetia (with Distinction)
NKOMO, Nomcebo Luyanda
NKOSI, Senzo Lindikhaya (with Distinction)
RIVOMBO, Singita Armstrong
SKHOSANA, Kutloano
TSOMO, Mamello Shamaine
Postgraduate Diploma in Scientific Studies
MMOKWA, Tuduetso
Data Science
Data Science
Data Science
Data Science
Data Science
Data Science
Data Science
GRADUATION AWARDS
FACULTY OF SCIENCE
Prizes to be presented at the Faculty’s prize giving ceremony
Penny Huddle Memorial Award:
This prize is awarded by the School of Chemistry in memory of Dr Penny Huddle, an exceptional teacher in the School. It is awarded to a postgraduate student who has shown exceptional ability as a teaching assistant in the first year undergraduate laboratory.
Nduduzo Gugulethu Mdakane
Psybergate Computer Science Alumni Prize:
This prize is awarded annually to a postgraduate student for their support in teaching in the school through their tutoring of, or demonstrating to, undergraduate students.
Alex Vogt
School Prize for the most outstanding Tutor in Mathematics:
This prize is awarded to the most distinguished tutor in the School of Mathematics.
James David John Flowers
School of Geosciences Prize:
This prize is awarded annually for outstanding performance in Geology III.
Kabelo William Lehutjo
School of Physics Prize in Honours:
This prize is awarded annually for outstanding performance in the Honours year of study in Physics.
Dario Nicolas Van den Berg
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)
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 SCIENCE … A MESSAGE TO OUR GRADUATES
The mission of the Faculty of Science is to graduate excellent students who are equipped to make a meaningful contribution broadly to society and are ready to undertake postgraduate studies at Wits or any other top university in the world. A hallmark of our graduates is their independent, critical, creative and entrepreneurial thinking in the sciences, and a commitment to make this world a better place for all.
We strongly encourage you to continue your studies as a postgraduate student in the Faculty. We offer excellent postgraduate coursework and research programmes in a range of diverse areas from Astronomy to Zoology. The MSc in Science Communication, the PGDip in Data Science and the PGDip in Innovation offer very new avenues for postgraduate training and valuable skills development. The Faculty of Science is home to three out of the seven DSI/NRF funded Centres of Excellence at Wits, known for their cutting-edge research in their respective focus areas. In addition, the Faculty has been chosen as the lead institution by the Department of Science and Innovation to host the National eScience Postgraduate Teaching and Training Platform in the data sciences. The Faculty of Science is also home to the Wits Anglo American Digital Dome, and the Wits Sterkfontein Caves.
Academic staff in the Faculty collaborate with leading universities and laboratories around the world. Many of our postgraduate students spend time in overseas institutions as part of their postgraduate degrees and participate in national and international conferences. Our researchers are active participants in some of the large global science experiments such as at CERN and the SKA, and publish their work in some of the best international journals.
Wits is committed to maintaining its standing as a leading internationally renowned university producing work that is visible to the entire world, and positively impactful on the ways in which we live our lives in the 21 st century. I hope you will join us in this exciting endeavour!
Nithaya Chetty Dean: Faculty of Science
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.