VUT celebrates academic excellence with vibrant and joyous Spring Graduations

From 16 – 18 September 2024, the Vaal University of Technology (VUT) held its Spring Graduations, marking a significant milestone for students as they celebrated their academic achievements. The ceremonies, held during the vibrant and inspiring Spring season, saw a total number of 1 194 of graduates from various disciplines across the university’s four faculties, donning their caps and gowns in a momentous occasion filled with pride and anticipation for the future.

For three days, the Desmond Tutu Great Hall, was the place to be for family, friends, and university staff that gathered to honor the hard work and dedication of the students. These graduations not only were they a celebration of individual success, but also highlighted VUT’s commitment to academic excellence, as well its role in advancing education and development in South Africa.

Delivering his congratulatory message at one of the ceremonies, Prof Khehla Ndlovu, the Vice Chancellor and Principal reminded all that graduation ceremonies are an important gathering in VUT’s calendar. “They are an occasion where we come together not only to celebrate the exploits and accomplishments of our graduates, but also to showcase the institution’s educational heritage and tradition.”

Prof. Ndlovu also commended the graduates for their hard work and dedication, acknowledging the challenges they had overcome to reach this important milestone. “As you step into this new season of your lives, much like the Spring season, you are now ready to grow, flourish, and contribute to the world in new and dynamic ways. Armed with the knowledge and skills you have acquired, I have no doubt that you will make meaningful contributions to our society and lead with integrity, innovation, and compassion.”

However, he hastily cautioned the graduates that graduations are not just the culmination of their academic efforts but also the beginning of a lifelong journey of learning, discovery, and impact. “As you leave here, I encourage you to continue seeking knowledge by having a curious mind and a teachable heart. To emphasise this point, he borrowed from Sir Albert Einstein when he said: “When you cease to learn, you cease to grow. And when you cease to grow, you cease to improve, and get better.”

Prof. Ndlovu also highlighted that these graduations coincided with VUT’s celebration of twenty years as a University of Technology, adding that reaching that milestone was not only a significant achievement for the university, but also a testament to its unwavering commitment to education, innovation, and excellence in the field of technology. He concluded by encouraging graduates to contribute to the VUT Bursary Fund which aims to alleviate financial burdens faced by deserving students, enabling them to focus on their studies without worrying about economic constraints.

Notably, different ceremonies were graced by the presence of different distinguished guests and keynote speakers alike. Mr Vincent Mntambo, VUT Chancellor attended the morning session on 17 September, while the Chairperson of Council, Prof Mandla Radebe was among the attendees at the second session of the same day. Graduates from the Management Science Faculty were privileged to hear from a well-known academic and spiritual contributor, Dr TJC Slabbert who delivered a keynote address. The Faculty of Applied and Computer Sciences, on the other hand welcomed back one of its own, Dr. Tozama Qwebani-Ogunleye, as the distinguished guest speaker during their session. Dr. Qwebani-Ogunleye, currently the Programme Officer for Africa and Overseas Partnerships at the Academy of Science of South Africa (ASSAf), left a powerful impression on the Class of 2024, reminding them of the transformative power of education.

Throughout the three-day graduation ceremonies, the VUT Choir serenaded the attendees with their melodic voices and stellar performances.