By: Nontobeko Moimane- 08 November 2023

The Vaal University of Technology’s (VUT) Seventh Day Adventist Student Movement (SDASM) marked a significant milestone as they celebrated their 30th anniversary with a special event, “Homecoming VUT SDASM,” over the weekend.

The primary objective of this event was to commemorate the enduring legacy of the SDASM as a student movement at VUT. It provided a wonderful opportunity to reunite with VUT alumni who had been an integral part of the structure throughout the years, fostering connections and meaningful engagement. This gathering was also a moment to reflect on the journey of the SDASM, acknowledging the changes and improvements it had undergone over the years to drive positive transformation within the university community.

The VUT Alumni Relations office played a vital role in this celebration, actively engaging with the alumni community as part of their core responsibilities. Mr. Peter Masombuka, the Head of Alumni Relations, delivered a warm welcome address, highlighting VUT’s commitment to not only producing academic excellence but also nurturing social giants. He emphasised the importance of spiritual and personal development within the university experience.

Mr. Masombuka also proudly shared that VUT had graduated over 110,000 alumni throughout its history, underscoring the institution’s significant impact on the community and society. He expressed his belief that the day’s events would be highly rewarding, setting the stage for a memorable celebration. Furthermore, he extended a heartfelt invitation to the alumni to return and share their valuable experiences and insights with current students. “By offering motivation and talks about their respective industries and fields, the alumni could inspire and guide the next generation of professionals, fostering a sense of continuity and mentorship within the VUT community,” he said.

To highlight the pinnacle of the event, a gala dinner took place on Saturday, featuring prominent figures such as Mlungisi Mathonsi (CEO and Chief Development & Operations Officer of McDonald’s) and Shaka Radebe (LED Manager: Sedibeng District Municipality). The dinner was graciously hosted by Sthembile Motha, a VUT alumnus and a Business Consultant. The primary goal of the dinner was to underscore the importance of hard work and academic excellence.

In his address, Mr. Mathonsi emphasised, “This is the key to the future. The degree will not only impart technical knowledge but also teach you critical thinking skills and how to navigate challenges.”

This event marks the beginning of a series of inspiring events that will nurture intellectual growth and talent.

In essence, the 30th-anniversary celebration of VUT SDASM was more than just a moment of reflection on the past. It served as an opportunity to foster stronger connections, encourage alumni engagement, and motivate the pursuit of academic and spiritual development within the university community. This celebration showcased the enduring spirit of collaboration and VUT’s unwavering dedication to its students and alumni.