Graduation Ceremony
Date: 12 December 2024
Time: 09:30
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 2024! Some of you entered university as the world sank into a global pandemic, COVID-19; some were already pursuing their studies at this world class university, the University of the Witwatersrand. We applaud you for strength of character, grit, and commitment to success.
Our country continues to experience a plethora of challenges that threaten our economic stability and social cohesion, further deepening inequality and hopelessness. It is in this century that, as one of the member states of the UN that approved the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, we intend to eradicate inequality, achieve peace, prosperity, and dignity for all, through partnerships while preserving the planet for future generations. We cannot achieve these lofty ambitions without your wisdom and servant leadership as you embark on your careers.
Your hard work and dedication to achieve your dreams is a true reflection of your resilience and commitment. It is this resilience that makes us confident that you have what it takes to build a better future that is equal and just. History has proven time and again that it is the weakest amongst us that determine our strength as a nation. The highly educated have the responsibility to enlighten and fight for social justice for the marginalised, for the good of humankind.
As you venture into the world, take time to expand the depth and breath of your knowledge. Read outside your specialisation, engage with people outside your comfort zone. Be lifelong learners. Understand the plight of people less fortunate than yourself. 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 Integrity. May you be those leaders!
CONGRATULATIONS! HALALA! GO LEAD SOUTH AFRICA TO GREATNESS!
Dr Judy Dlamini Chancellor Wits University
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 and changed society for good. 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.
ORDEROF PROCEDURE
12DECEMBER2024 AT09:30
TheaudiencewillriseastheacademicprocessionentersthehallandwillremainstandinguntiltheChancellorisin place
TheChancellorwillconstitutethecongregation
TheChancellorwillwelcomethe graduands,diplomatesandguests
Addressto the congregation
Conferment of degreesand granting ofdiplomas
TheActing Presidentof Convocationwilladdressthe graduatesanddiplomates
TheChancellorwilldissolvethe congregation
Theaudiencewillstandwhile Ihele is played
Membersoftheaudiencearerequestedtostandwhiletheacademicprocessionleavesthehallandnottoleavethe hallbeforethe end oftheceremony.
IMPORTANT NOTICE
Intheeventofload-sheddingorpowercuts,theGreatHallmaybecometotallydarkuntilthegeneratorcomesinto operation.
FACULTYOFHEALTHSCIENCES
DEAN:PROFESSOR SA MADHIMBBChMMedPhD (Witwatersrand)FCPaeds(SA) MASSAf, RSSAf,TWAS,CBE
MasterofPharmacy
AYOB,Rumaanah
DISSERTATION: Patient Knowledge,attitudes,and perceptiontowardscardiovasculardisease, medication complianceandlifestylemodifications ina tertiary hospitalinJohannesburg
DUPLESSIS,Nerine
DISSERTATION: Exploringthe knowledge, attitudes, perceptions, and practices ofpharmacistswithregards to doping and medicationuse insports
GIURICICH, FedericaMaria (with Distinction)
DISSERTATION: Salesof over-the-countercodeine-containing medicinesinSouthAfrica,2019-2020:a retrospective observationalstudy
MATHOHO,Mulanga
DISSERTATION: Adescriptivesurveyof healthcareprofessionalsontraditional, complementary,and alternative medicineintegration inpublichospitalsinGauteng
MOODLEY, Kimaya
DISSERTATION: Fabricationof apolymericmicroneedle arrayforthedecalcification ofbloodvessels
MOYO, PrincessAyanda
DISSERTATION: Knowledge,attitudes and beliefsof pharmacystudentstowards influenzavaccination in South Africa
NAIDOO,Keruné (with Distinction)
DISSERTATION: Are essentialoils asolutiontocombatantimicrobialresistance?
QURESHI,Umara Bibi
DISSERTATION: Theanalysisofastudent-led universityscreeningandtesting programmeforcardiovascular disease and diabetes
RAHIM,Johara Irshaad (with Distinction)
DISSERTATION: Investigating patient-specificriskfactors forchemotherapy-inducednauseaandvomitingin patientswithcancer
WADEE, Ayesha (with Distinction)
DISSERTATION: Designandevaluationofmesoporoussilicananoparticlesforthetargetedco-deliveryofessential oils
MasterofScienceinMedicine
DEWAH, Shingairai Clinical Pharmacy RESEARCH REPORT: Managementof patientswithtype2Diabetes Mellitusat adistrict hospitalinGauteng
ELLEFSEN, MichaelKeith (with Distinction) Biokinetics RESEARCH REPORT: Theacute effectof dynamicneuralmobilizationexercise versusstaticstretchingon muscularstrength andpowerin martialartists
JHETAM,Zakeeya (with Distinction)
Clinical and Experimental Pharmacology DISSERTATION: Theeffectsofcancerdrugs andcoppercomplexeson pancreaticcancer haemoxygenase-1andcellsurvival
LABUSCHAGNE, Olivia
Clinical Pharmacy RESEARCH REPORT: Antibacterialresistancepatternsfoundinurinesamplesobtained from the elderly in Gauteng
LALA,SahilAnil Pharmacology DISSERTATION: Theeffectofquinolone heterocyclicderivativeson the malaria parasite andanophelesvector
LANGWANA, Vuyiseka Exposure Science RESEARCH REPORT: Worker's knowledge and practiceson factors influencing theriskofsilicadustexposurein Lesothomines
LEROUX,Mmakganya Pharmaceutical Affairs RESEARCH REPORT: Asublingualdrugdelivery systemforthe treatment of depression
LLOYD,Rohan Biokinetics
RESEARCH REPORT: A Retrospectivestudyofisokinetic dynamometryparameters inpatientsdiagnosed with unilateral achillestendinopathy
MACCARTHY, SamuelOluwasegun
Vaccinology RESEARCH REPORT: Investigatingtheknowledge,attitude, and perceptionof SARS-CoV-2vaccine hesitancy amongpregnantwomenin Soweto, South Africa
MOLAPO, Sewela Stanford
Pharmaceutical Affairs
RESEARCH REPORT: Designofa BioresponsiveHydrogelfortreatment ofUlcerative Wounds
MUCHICHWA,MitchellTanaka
Vaccinology
RESEARCH REPORT: An auditofadult vaccinationinHIV-positivepatientsattendinga tertiary centreHIVclinic
NAIDOO,Thevendran Pharmaceutical Affairs RESEARCH REPORT: Acomparative assessment ofthelegislation andregulatoryframeworksfor local manufacture ofvaccinesin South Africaand Egypt
PILLAY, Leshania Pharmaceutical Affairs RESEARCH REPORT: Developmentof ahydrogelwound dressingsystem fortheapplicationofburnwounds injuries
RAMOKGOPA, Ofentse Grace Pharmaceutical Affairs RESEARCH REPORT: Designofa 5-flourouracilcopolymericnanogeldrugdelivery systemforthe treatmentof breastcancer
THABANA, Puleng Agnes Pharmacology DISSERTATION: Theeffectofnovelazoles,pyrimidineanaloguesandacetohydrazonederivativesonthelifecycle ofthemalariaparasite
TUMUSIIME,James Vaccinology RESEARCH REPORT: EpidemiologyofinvasiveHaemophilusinfluenzaeserotypeb diseasefollowing implementation ofa boostervaccinedose in South Africa
UMAR,IsahMungadi Pharmacology DISSERTATION: OccurrenceKnowledgeand Managementof HumanHelminthicInfectionsinBirnin Kebbi MetropolisNigeria
VANHEERDEN,Izel (with Distinction) Pharmacology
DISSERTATION: Theevaluationandriskassessmentofcomplementarymedicineusebycancerpatientstreatedat anacademichospitalinJohannesburg
VERMAAK, Cornel Sports Science
DISSERTATION: Attitudes,knowledge,and physical activityamongpatientswith type2 diabetesin Dihlabeng, South Africa
MasterofScienceinNursing
COETZEE,Rebecca Adelle
DISSERTATION: Therole androle activitiesofprofessionalnursespractising in child andadolescentpsychiatric inpatient unitsinGauteng, South Africa
MAHLANGU, Patience
DISSERTATION: Thedevelopmentof an Intra-OperativeEnvironmentalManagement Audit ToolforOperating Rooms
NXUMALO,WellingtonThulani
DISSERTATION: Thementalhealth factors influencingacademicperformance of secondaryschoollearners in Gauteng
MasterofScienceinOccupationalTherapy
CLARKSON, Lara Ferna
RESEARCH REPORT: Comparisonof outdoor playspacesin lowversushighsocioeconomicearlychildhood developmentcentresinJohannesburg
COHEN,Jenna Lee
RESEARCH REPORT: Managementof upperlimbpainin strokesurvivors: thecurrentpractice ofoccupational therapistsin South Africa
FLOOD,JadeTasmyn
DISSERTATION: Functionaloutcomesofpaediatricposteriorfossatumoursurvivorsattwo QuaternaryHospitalsin Johannesburg, Gauteng
HOOSEN, Ilhaam
RESEARCH REPORT: HealthcaretransitionpracticesofoccupationaltherapistsinSouthAfricanPublicHealthcare facilities
MOKWENA,Tebogo Lecticia
RESEARCH REPORT: Theroleofoccupationaltherapyinthemanagementofsport-relatedconcussionforchildren and adolescents: Ascoping review
PIETERSEN,Nica
RESEARCH REPORT: Howoccupationaltherapistsattemptto overcome languagebarriers in South Africa
SIBANYONI, MaxineJade Khumo
RESEARCH REPORT: Theimpactofmentaldisordersonmothers'perceivedself-efficacyandmaternal competence
SOLOMON,Mika Ashley
RESEARCH REPORT: Occupationaltherapy inthesnoezelenroom:Teachers'andtherapists'knowledgeand perceptions
SONO,Tsakane Nkateko
DISSERTATION: Patientjourneymapping:theexperienceof patientsreceiving hand-injury careservicesin Gauteng
VANGU, Moseka Mercy
RESEARCH REPORT: Evaluationofstandardizedassessmentsused inOccupationalTherapyforchildren with cerebralPalsyin South Africa
MasterofScienceinPhysiotherapy
BLEWITT, KyraLee
DISSERTATION: Theoutcomesof adult patientsrecoveringfrommajorthoracictrauma who participated in a programme ofmyofascialreleaseandactiveexercise therapy
CHOPDAT, Nazreen
DISSERTATION: Pelvicfloordysfunction infemale patients attwoacademichospitalsinJohannesburg,three monthspost-pelvicfracture
FLOUDIOTIS,Cleopatra
RESEARCH REPORT: Theinfluence oftheinpatient rehabilitationexperience on thetransition tohomeamong people withspinalcordinjuryinSouth Africa: a qualitativestudy
GUHRING,Marelize
RESEARCH REPORT: Therole physiotherapists play inNeonatalIntensive Care Units in South Africa
JARDINE,Jessica Anne
RESEARCH REPORT: Relationship between caregiverstrain and functionalindependence of peopleliving with strokeina ruralsetting intheEasternCape,SouthAfrica
KAUNDA,James
RESEARCH REPORT: Prechtl'sobservedgeneralmovementsinHIVandantiretroviraltherapyexposeduninfected infantsinBlantyreMalawi
KENNEDY,StaceyLeighJomain
RESEARCH REPORT: Functionaloutcomesof childrenondischargefroma PaediatricIntensive Care Unit
KOLLI,Joseph
RESEARCH REPORT: Acomparison between chronic ankle instabilityandposturalcontrolamongrugbyplayers without ankle injuriesinKenya
KOTZÉ,Lisé-Mari
DISSERTATION: Theeffectofafoamrollerinterventionontheanteriorandlateralthighonglutealmuscleactivityin healthyfemales
MALINDA, CharityThandekaRose
RESEARCH REPORT: Exploringtheknowledgeand experiencesthatpeoplewithspinalcordinjury havewhen accessingsexualreproductivehealthservicesinBlantyre,Malawi
MMITSI,MolebogengBongani
RESEARCH REPORT: Preventativestrategiesfornon-contactlower limb injuriesamongmale footballplayers:a scopingreview
MURAMBASVINA,RumbidzaiEsnath
RESEARCH REPORT: Factors associated withhigh ballreleasespeeds among elitepacebowlers in South Africa
REYNHARDT, Kyara Megan (with Distinction)
DISSERTATION: Developmentaland functionaloutcomesin children withchronicliverdisease undergoing liver transplant: alongitudinal cohortstudy
TOOTLA,Sameer
DISSERTATION: Theeffectofonenostrilinhalation, addedto standardphysiotherapymanagement, on hospital length ofstayandpulmonarycomplicationsin patients with thoracictrauma: arandomisedtrial
BachelorofHealthSciencesHonours
BROOKS,Liam (with Distinction)
DIALE,Tebogo Amelia (with Distinction)
FOURIE, Elmarie (with Distinction)
HERMAN,Johanna Petronella
KATZ,Talya (with Distinction)
KHUMALO,NosiphoThandeka (with Distinction)
Biokinetics
Biokinetics
Exercise Science
Exercise Science
Pharmacology
Biokinetics
KLASSEN, DenealCleo (with Distinction) Pharmacology
KRUGER, AshiraDinah (with Distinction)
LEFUMA, Relebohile Pharmacology
Exercise Science
MAHLANGU,Thando (with Distinction) Pharmacology
MAPUTLE,Reabetswe Mogomotsi (with Distinction)
MARUPING,Lesego
Pharmacology
Exercise Science
MASINDI, Shandukani Prudence (with Distinction) Pharmacology
MATLALA,Otshepegile Salvina Pharmacology
MILLER, Denise (with Distinction) Biokinetics
MMAKO,TshepisoNomhlangano (with Distinction) Pharmacology
MOLOI,Ponatshego (with Distinction) Pharmacology
MONZEGLIO,Gemma Paige (with Distinction) Biokinetics
MSOMI,Notha Pharmacology
MTSHOENI,Ntokozoyethu Innocentia Pharmacology
NAUDE, Izelle (with Distinction) Pharmacology
NETSIANDA, Phathutshedzo (with Distinction) Pharmacology
NGOBENI, KennethBongani
Pharmacology
NOMPULA, Aphindiwe (with Distinction) Pharmacology
NONDAKA, KwathiMihlali Pharmacology
NTHO,Onthatile Pharmacology
PERUMAL,Jerusha (with Distinction) Biokinetics
RAMATSHIMBILA,MulangaTreaty (with Distinction) Pharmacology
RAMODIPA,MokgadiAnnalize Jowie Biokinetics
RANTSEMA, Tumi Biokinetics
SCHMIDT,Mia (with Distinction) Pharmacology
SEBUSENG,Letlhogonolo Reamogetse Pharmacology
SHANGASE, Sakhile Khulekani (with Distinction) Biokinetics
SHONGWE,Nkazimulo (with Distinction) Biokinetics
STEVENSON, KerriGlenn (with Distinction) Biokinetics
SUNDSTROM,Janik (with Distinction)
THERON, Alyssa-Jade (with Distinction)
Exercise Science
Exercise Science
TOUFFIE,Zia (with Distinction) Pharmacology
VANNIEKERK, Christiaan Edward
Exercise Science
VANZYL,Anja (with Distinction) Pharmacology
BachelorofNursing
DIEDERICKS,Chelsea
Bachelor of Nursing
FENI, Entle Bachelor of Nursing
GUMEDE, Anele Bachelor of Nursing
KGATSOETSOE, KgothatsoElizabeth Bachelor of Nursing
KHAMBULE, Sibongile Mosa
KHUMALO, Lindiwe BridgetAyanda
MADELA,Bonginkosi Jacob
Bachelor of Nursing
Bachelor of Nursing
Bachelor of Nursing
MAFAHLA, Madie Roseanne
MALEKANE, MahlajengFaith
MAOKO,Mulalo Martin
MASIKANE,MenziThabo
MATLELAPA,OtshephegileVision
Bachelor of Nursing
Bachelor of Nursing
Bachelor of Nursing
Bachelor of Nursing
Bachelor of Nursing
MAVHUNGU, AndaniSenama Bachelor of Nursing
MBATHA, Njabulo
MCHUNU,Sinethemba Andile
MHLANGA,ThobekaDineo
NDLOVU, Sandiso Wendy
Bachelor of Nursing
Bachelor of Nursing
Bachelor of Nursing
Bachelor of Nursing
NDLOZI,Lerato Sizwile Peggy Bachelor of Nursing
NGEMA, Siphelele LamulaniFreedom Bachelor of Nursing
NIXON, Kaylee Megan Bachelor of Nursing
PUPUMA, Nombulelo
SEHOOLE,Boikhutso Suzan
TLOU,PreciousLesego
BachelorofPharmacy
AHOMED,Abdullah Mohamed
BAGUS,Zainab
BHARATI, Anubhav
BISNATH,Alicia (with Distinction)
BOGOLUBOV,Gabriella (with Distinction)
BUTHELEZI, AvuyileZandile
CASSIM, Muaaza
DADABHAY, Lamia
DAVIDS, Ayesha (with Distinction)
DUTTON,MelissaJoan
Bachelor of Nursing
Bachelor of Nursing
Bachelor of Nursing
FAKIR,Tayyibah Muhammed (with Distinction)
FULAT,Tasmiyah (with Distinction)
HARRIDAVE,Talika
HASSIM, Shaakira
ISMAILKHAN, Aatikah
KHAN, Aisha (with Distinction)
KOTSIROS, John Antonio (with Distinction)
LATIF,Swalehah
LOONAT,Yusuf (with Distinction)
LOZI,MlindaAphiwe
LUTHULI,Kwazi
MADRAAI,NgwantamoLehlogonolo
MAFIRI, Magalane Mosa
MAGAELE, KholofeloPeter
MAJOE,Rorisang
MAKO, Kabelo Philli
MANDLATI, Andile Angel (with Distinction)
MASANGO,Nasiphi Mawanda
MASILINGE, MurendeniZanel
MASOGO,LesediFiona
MATHEBULA, August
MATHEBULA,Chawe Immanuel
MATHEBULA,GladwellNhlakanipho
MATLADING, Mamphedi Mildred
MDUNGE,XolelwaNonkululeko
MKHOBA, Sanele Sizwe
MKHWANAZI,Thubelihle Malungelo
MMOLAI, Selaelo Anold
MOHAMED,FatimaZahra (with Distinction)
MONGALA,Oitsile Norvic
MONTJA, Botlatso
MOOLLA,Yaseera
MOOSA,Raeesa
MSIMANGO, Samukelisiwe Amanda
MUKWEVHO,Danford
NAICK,ThiashniSai-Ann
NAIDOO,Bretagne'Teleah
NAIDU,Theesan (with Distinction)
NASHA, Sthandiwe
NDLANGAMANDLA,ThubelihleZiyandinsizwa
NDLOVU, Khanyisile
NGELEKA,Mbwaya
NGOBENI,Godwill
NGWANE, SamukeloNomfundo
NORATH,Talhah
NTIMANE,Nondumiso Sinokukholwa (with Distinction)
NXUMALO,LusindaPinky (with Distinction)
OMAR, Aabeda (with Distinction)
PHALANE, MariaBoitumelo
PHASHA, PreciousManoko
PHUNGWAYO, Nontobeko
QWABE,Mfanelo Ngcebo
RAHIM,TayibahIrshaad
RAMUHASHI, WangaJoyce
RATOMBO,Unarine
SEROKA,BohlaleRamaube
SHERIFF,Safia
SIBISI,Nonjabulo Angel
SIKHWARI, Elelwani (with Distinction)
SITHOLE, Busisiwe Pamela
SITHOLE, Sibusiso
SITHOLE, Yolanda Andile
TAYOB, Aaliya
THOBEJANE,Tlhologelo
XATASI, Sibusiso
BachelorofScienceinOccupationalTherapy
ADEMOYE,MbhaliBuhle Adesewa
AHMED,Imaan
BALA,Maliha Maqsood
BALE, Maliyamo
BENJAMIN, Jodi Marissa
CORREIA, SabrinaMoreira
DENDAR,Fatiema
DE PONTERABIM, Gabriela
FARISTA, Hanaan
HADEBE, SiyamthandaNomahlubi
HAJEE, Suwaibah
HOFMEYR,Izette
JADOO,Kanistha
JAMES, Ashleigh Louise
JASSAT,Tasmiya
KAHL,Zoè
KHAN,Qaylah
KOTZEN,Kayla Tasmin
MANYAGE,Tshifhiwa
MASTERS,ChloeJean
MEHTAR,Faatima
MERCHAK, StephanieAnn Marie
MILDENHALL, Erin
MKHIZE,Thobeka
MNISI,Nompumelelo Princess
MSISINYANE,MusaDavid
MUGABI,DakaloNdivho
NDIKI,Unam
NTSHABELENG,Maite Comfort
OMAR,Mishka
PADIACHI,TianaDiane (with Distinction)
PATEL, CiaraKelly
PATEL,Zahraa
PIETERSE, Kyra
PILLAY, Mataio Anthony
SHEPHERD, MornéHilton
SMITH, MelissaGrace
SULIMAN,Humayra Basheer
ZWANE,Ntokozo
BachelorofScienceinPhysiotherapy
BALOYI, PfumelaniSharon
BISMILLA,Mahdiya
BLANCHARD,Andrew Stewart
BOSCH, Arnau
CHAUKE,SephethoInnocent
CHOHAN, Aa'isha
CHOONARA, SumayahInez
CILENGI, AmaniOlivierTshileng'a
COHEN, Kayla
CUMPSTY,Angelique
DUTOIT,Ryno Cornelis
GODDARD,Laura Allison (with Distinction)
GXAGXISA, PalesaTheo Talicia
IDEIA, TatianaLucas (with Distinction)
JASSAT, Aaliya
JOOSUF,Lihaz
JOSLIN, Matthew Paul
KATAKUZINOS,Melita Lee (with Distinction)
KATZEN, Maya (with Distinction)
KHUMALO, Sithandiwe Sibusisiwe
KRUGER, Dylan (with Distinction)
LATTOUF,Pierita
MACLAY,MariamDalan
MAKDA, Yusuf (with Distinction)
MALEKA,Doreen
MANACK,Mahdiyya
MANGERA,Shuaib Suleiman
MASUKU,ZiyandaNomangaliso
MBATHA, KwethokuhleAsande
MCDONALD, William Alexander
MCHUNU,Malibongwe Asanda
MERCHAK,Danielle Lisa Maria
MOGATUSI, Kutlwano
MOJAPELO,Mpho Chegofatjo
MOKONOTELA, Koketso
MOOLA,Azraa
MTSHALI,KamogeloNobuhle
MUCAVELE,Frank
MULAUDZI, KgopotsoDanice
MWAKASSA, AbigaelKanga
NDLOVU, Matilda Kwanele
NDLOVU, MduduziRichard
PRINSLOO,Leandri
SEKHUKHUNE, Happiness
SELEBI, LesegoBoitumelo
SETWABA, Mankwe
SKINNER, AbigailClaire
SLATER,Emma Jayne
TARR,Lauren Bridget
THUKOANE, AtlegangNompumelelo
THULARE, KhumoBronwyn
TSEKE, Kamogelo Thandolwethu
TWINE,Stuart Antony
VALARAKIS, Sabrina
VANDERBERG, Hanco
VAN STADEN, Elizabeth
PostgraduateDiplomainPhysiotherapy
SMITH, Domenica
WALT, Kayla Gia (with Distinction)
WARTNABY,Tessa (with Distinction)
ZITHA,KabeloItumeleng
THEWITSHEALTHPROFESSIONAL'S HIPPOCRATICPLEDGE
As a Health Professional graduand of the University of the Witwatersrand, I solemnly pledge that:
- Iwilldedicate mylife totheservice ofhumanity;
- Iwillexercise myprofessiontothe best of myknowledgeand abilityin accordance withsoundhealthpracticesandwithcompassion,conscience,integrityandhumility;
- Thehealthandwell-beingofallpersons entrustedto mycare andthe well-being of thecommunity willbemyfirst consideration;
- Iwillrespecttheautonomyanddignityof mypatientandwill notknowingly do anythingtotheirdetrimentor prejudice;
- Iwillnot permit considerationofage,religion,nationality,politics,race, gender, sexual orientation, disability, disease,lifestyle,economic status,socialstandingor anyotherfactortointerferewithmy dutytomypatient;
- Iwillnot improperly divulgeanythingIhavelearnedin myprofessional capacity;
- Iwillupholdanddefendmyprofessionalindependence;
- Iwilladvocate forhumanrightsandwill notviolatesuchrights andcivil liberties, evenunderthreat;
- Iwillconductresearchonpatients onlyin accordancewithsoundethicalprinciples andwiththe approvalofaformally constitutedethicscommittee;
- Iwillembracelife-longlearningtoimprovemyprofessionalknowledgeandskillsand willsharemyknowledgefor thebenefit of patientsand theadvancementof healthcare;
- Inmyrelations with patients, colleagues andothers,Iwillconductmyselfas becomesamember ofanhonourable profession.
Imakethispledge solemnly, freely and uponmy honour.
GRADUATIONAWARDS
FACULTYOFHEALTHSCIENCES
Prizestobepresented at theFaculty’s prizegiving ceremony
Raymondand Marjorie DartMedal:
Thismedalisawardedto themost distinguishedgraduandwho performed ataconsistentlyhigh levelthroughout thefouryearsofstudyinBSc(Physiotherapy).
Tessa Wartnaby
UPD PharmacyMedalfor AcademicExcellence
Thisawardispresentedto thestudent adjudgedthemostdistinguishedinthefinalyearof studyfor the degreeof Pharmacy.
Ayesha Davids
AcademyofPharmaceutical Sciences of SouthAfricaMedalfor Research Excellence:
Thisawardispresentedto thestudent orgroupofstudentsadjudgedthemostdistinguishedfor thespecial undergraduateresearchproject.
Zainab Bagus
Tasmiyah Fulat
AlfredRothberg MedalforRehabilitation:
ThismedalisawardedannuallytothefinalyearBScPhysiotherapystudentadjudgedthemostdistinguishedinthe courseRehabilitation II.
Maya Katzen
BarbaraRobertson Prize forIntegratedGeneralNursing(IGN)IV:
Thisprize isawarded tothe studentwhohas achieved thehighestmark in both thetheoreticaland practical components oftheIntegratedGeneral Nursing(IGN)IVcourse.
Kgothatso Elizabeth Kgatsoetsoe
Madie Roseanne Mafahla
Mahlajeng Faith Malekane
Dean's MeritListBachelorof Nursing Year4:
Citationforachieving an average of75%inthefourth yearofstudyforthedegree Bachelor ofNursing.
Chelsea Diedericks
Anele Gumede
Kgothatso Elizabeth Kgatsoetsoe
Sibongile Mosa Khambule
Lindiwe Bridget Ayanda Khumalo
Bonginkosi Jacob Madela
Madie Roseanne Mafahla
Mahlajeng Faith Malekane
Mulalo Martin Maoko
Menzi Thabo Masikane
Otshephegile Vision Matlelapa
Andani Senama Mavhungu
Njabulo Mbatha
Sinethemba Andile Mchunu
Thobeka Dineo Mhlanga
Sandiso Wendy Ndlovu
Siphelele Lamulani Freedom Ngema
Kaylee Megan Nixon
Nombulelo Pupuma
Boikhutso Suzan Sehoole
Precious Lesego Tlou
Dean's MeritListBachelorof Pharmacy Year4:
Citationforachieving an average of75%inthefourth yearofstudyforthedegree ofBachelorof Pharmacy.
Abdullah Mohamed Ahomed
Zainab Bagus
Alicia Bisnath
Gabriella Bogolubov
Ayesha Davids
Tayyibah Muhammed Fakir
Tasmiyah Fulat
Shaakira Hassim
Aisha Khan
John Antonio Kotsiros
Swalehah Latif
Yusuf Loonat
Ngwantamo Lehlogonolo Madraai
Magalane Mosa Mafiri
August Mathebula
Mamphedi Mildred Matlading
Selaelo Anold Mmolai
Fatima Zahra Mohamed
Yaseera Moolla
Theesan Naidu
Sthandiwe Nasha
Thubelihle Ziyandinsizwa Ndlangamandla
Talhah Norath
Nondumiso Sinokukholwa Ntimane
Lusinda Pinky Nxumalo
Aabeda Omar
Mfanelo Ngcebo Qwabe
Tayibah Irshaad Rahim
Wanga Joyce Ramuhashi
Safia Sheriff
Nonjabulo Angel Sibisi
Elelwani Sikhwari
Aaliya Tayob
DenisJabulani KhozaCommunityServiceAward:
Thisprize isawarded tothe studentpresented the highestmark inWork BasedLearningacrossallfouryears of study.
Aabeda Omar
Henrietta StockdaleFloatingTrophyforNursing:
Thisprize isawarded tothe studentwhoachievesthe highestlevelofprofessionalmaturity duringthefouryear Nursing degree.
Mahlajeng Faith Malekane
JoBeenhakkerAwardin FourthYearPhysiotherapy:
Awardedtothe final yearstudentinPhysiotherapyadjudgedto bethe mostdistinguished in PhysiotherapyIIIwho hasachieved not lessthan 70%for the unit.
Tessa Wartnaby
JockGearMemorialAwardforNursing:
AwardedtothefinalyearNursingstudentwhohas achieved ahigh levelofclinical competence and provided meritoriousserviceincaringforclients and patientsin bothcommunityand hospitalsettings.
Kgothatso Elizabeth Kgatsoetsoe
Karen Smuts MemorialAward:
AwardedtothestudentwhodemonstratedthemostimprovementanddevelopmentinPhysiotherapyoverthefour yearsofstudyinboth academic(4years)andclinical(2years)spheres.
Elizabeth van Staden
MontyRubenstein MemorialPrizeforthe Promotionof Pharmacy
Thisprize isawarded tothe studentnominatedby his/herpeersasthememberof theirclassmostrecognised for theircontributiontothepromotion ofpharmacystudents.
Andile Mandlati
Occupational Science Prize:
Awardedtothefinalyearoccupationaltherapystudent adjudgedthe mostdistinguished in thecourseScience of OccupationIII who hasachieved not lessthan70%forthecourse.
Fatiema Dendar
Suwaibah Hajee
Kayla Tasmin Kotzen
Erin Mildenhall
OccupationalTherapy Assoc.ofSA(Gauteng)Prize:
AwardedtothefinalyearOccupationalTherapystudentadjudgedthemostdistinguished inthefield ofPhysical Occupational TherapyIII.
Melissa Grace Smith
OccupationalTherapy Associationof SAResearch Award:
Awardedtothefinalyeargraduand, orgroupof graduands,whoproducesthebest researchproject.
Fatiema Dendar
Suwaibah Hajee
Zoè Kahl
Qaylah Khan
Tiana Diane Padiachi
Pharmaceutical Society(SouthernGautengBranch)AwardforAcademicExcellence
Thisawardispresentedto thestudent assignedthe highestoverallacademicaggregate acrossall fouryears of study.
Ayesha Davids
Pharmacology Awardfor BPharmYear4:
Thisawardis madeto the finalyearstudent with the highestmark (75%or more)forPharmacology.
Tasmiyah Fulat
PsychiatricOccupational Therapists (POTS) Prize:
Thisprize isawarded tothe graduand who hasexcelledin the treatmentof psychiatricpatients.
Ashleigh Louise James
TheJean BlairMedalin Physiotherapy:
Thismedalisawardedto thestudentwith the highest marksintheClinicalPhysiotherapyII coursewhoachieves not lessthan70%forthecourse.
Danielle Lisa Maria Merchak
OFFICERSOFTHEUNIVERSITY
Chancellor
DRNJ DLAMINIMBChB(Natal)DOH(Free State)MBA(Witwatersrand)DBL(Unisa)PGCE(Witwatersrand)IEC (Stanford-USA)
Vice-Chancellorand Principal
PROFESSORZ VILAKAZI BSc(Manchester)MScPhD(Witwatersrand)FRS, FAAS, MASSAf
Chairman of Council
MRI SHONGWE BA(Wesleyan)MPhil(Oxford)
Senior Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Academic)
PROFESSOR ROSMAN BA(Witwatersrand)HDipEd BEd(Unisa)MEd PhD(Witwatersrand) MASSAf
DeputyVice-Chancellor (Research andInnovation)
PROFESSOR LMORRIS BSc(Hons)(Witwatersrand)DPhil(Oxford)FRSSAFAAS MASSAf
DeputyVice-Chancellor (SystemsandOperations)
PROFESSOR IRJANDRELLBSc(Eng)GDE PhD(Witwatersrand)IntPE(SA)PrEngFSAAEFSAIEE SMIEEE
DeputyVice-Chancellor (People Developmentand Culture)
PROFESSORGSTEVENSBA(CapeTown)BAPsychHonsMPsych(WesternCape)DLittetPhil(Unisa),MASSAf
Registrar
MSCG CROSLEYBAHDipEd(Witwatersrand)BEd Hons(Unisa)MEd(Witwatersrand)
ChiefFinancialOfficer
MSMMMANYAMACA(SA)BComAccounting(CapeTown)BComptHons(Unisa)BComHonsTaxation(Pretoria) MBA(GIBS)
DeanofStudentAffairs
MRJAPSEPTEMBER BA MPhil (CapeTown)
DEANSOFTHE FACULTIES
FacultyofCommerce,LawandManagement
PROFESSORJCOHEN BComHonsPhD(Witwatersrand)
FacultyofEngineering andtheBuiltEnvironment
PROFESSORT MAJOZIBScEngMScEng(Natal) PhD(UMIST)CEngPrEngFIChemEFAASMASSAfFWISA FSAAE
FacultyofHealthSciences
PROFESSOR SAMADHI MBBCh MMed PhD(Witwatersrand)FCPaeds(SA)MASSAf,RSSAf, TWAS,CBE
FacultyofHumanities
PROFESSOR MMUSEMWA BAHons(Zimbabwe) MA(CapeTown) PhD(Minnesota, USA)MASSAf
FacultyofScience
PROFESSOR NCHETTY BScHons(Natal)MS PhD (U.IllinoisUrbana-Champaign) MASSAf, MSAIP
President of Convocation
MSKMUFAMADI BALLBLLM(Witwatersrand)
FACULTYOFHEALTHSCIENCES
The University of the Witwatersrand Faculty of Health Sciences, located in Johannesburg - the hub of the South African economy, has been established for more than 100 years and is regarded as one of most reputable institutionsfor health scienceseducation insub-SaharanAfrica.
RankedbytheShanghaiRankingsinthetop200intheworldinsubjectrankingsforclinicalmedicineandthetop150 in the world in subject rankings for public health, the Faculty holds its own amongst the top 400 universities internationallyand preparesstudentsforafuture inthehealthcaresectoracross theglobe.
As South Africa’s largest and most comprehensive health sciences faculty, with over 7000 registered students, it offers undergraduate degrees in dentistry, medicine, medical and health sciences, nursing, occupational therapy, physiotherapyandpharmacy.Italsooffersagraduateentrymedicalandphysiotherapyprogramme,Mastersdegrees inscienceandmedicine anda PhD programme.
Teaching programmes in the Faculty are student-centred, internationally recognised, socially responsive and exemplify excellence in all dimensions. More than 1200 health sciences professionals graduate each year and are sought-afternationally,regionallyandglobally.
The Faculty provides excellent support and an intellectually stimulating environment for postgraduate study. Significantly, the Faculty has increased its postgraduate output significantly in the last five years and boasts excellent postgraduatesupervisors who participate in cutting-edgeresearch in clinical,appliedand basicsciences, providing fertile and varied fieldsofresearchto undertake.
Some of the world’s most significant and cutting-edge research is conducted through the faculty. With 28 research entities, two DSI/NRF Centres of Excellence, eight DSI/NRF South African Research Chairs, and many individual researchers who are involved in relevant basic and applied research in all fields of health sciences, the Faculty publishes morethan2000researchpapersannually.
AnumberofprogrammesforthetrainingofthenextgenerationofacademicsareprovidedthroughtheFaculty.One suchprogrammeisCARTA(ConsortiumforAdvancedResearchTraininginAfrica),amulti-disciplinaryprogramme aimedatgrowingprofessional,academicandresearchcapacityinAfricainthefieldofpublicandpopulationhealth. Its Pan-African focus of research includes reproductive health and sexuality as well as killer diseases in Africa, notablyTB,HIVand malaria.
The Faculty also hosts the Carnegie Academic Medicine Fellowship programme for the training of specialist cliniciansworkingtowardsaPhDdegree.ThisFellowshipensurestheprovisionofclinicianscientistsforthefuture.
One of seven Schools in the Faculty of Health Sciences, the School of Clinical Medicine is the largest with nine departments and about 40 divisions, which include sub-specialities. The School trains undergraduate and postgraduate students across a number of teaching platforms, including Chris Hani Baragwanath Hospital, the largest hospital on the Africa continent. Training is also undertaken at the Charlotte Maxeke Johannesburg Academic Hospital, the Helen Joseph Academic Hospital and the Rahima Moosa Hospital as well as 20 additional hospitals and clinics throughout Gauteng. The School prides itself on its high throughput of Bachelor of Medicine andBachelorofSurgerystudents.Ithasthreerecognisedresearchcentres,withtheCentreforRuralHealthandthe Steve Biko Bioethics Centre for Medical Bioethics being pillars of the Faculty’s social accountability stance, addressingmatters of accesstohealthcare forall SouthAfricans.
The School of Public Health enjoys an exceptional national and international reputation in teaching, research, academic service and partnerships. Full-time academics in the School are drawn from different disciplinary backgrounds that range from the social to the bio-medical sciences, enhancing multi-disciplinary approaches essential for public health. The School’s academic activities are also supported by more than 100 honorary staff members. The School has an impressive research record and hosts two MRC research units, the Agincourt Rural Public Health and Health Transitions Research Unit (Agincourt) and the Centre for Health Policy (CHP), both of which are internationally renowned with a long track record of supporting transformation initiatives to improve population health and the performance of the health sector. PRICELESS SA (Priority Cost Effective Lessons for SystemsStrengtheningSouthAfrica)hasproducedtranslationalresearchdirectlyimpactinghealthpolicyinthesalt andsugarareasin SouthAfrica.
The School of Therapeutic Sciences provides high-quality professional education for pharmacists, nurses, occupational therapists and physiotherapists who continue to make significant contributions to the national health sectorbyrenderingprofessionalservices.Withafocusonhealthandwellness, andexerciserehabilitation theSchool alsopreparesindividualsforcareersinbiokinetics,exercisescienceandsportsmedicine.Asasignificantcontributor toresearchexcellenceandoutputattheUniversity,theSchoolcontinuestoproducemeaningfulresearchthatserves communities, such as through its involvement with the Wits Research Institute for Malaria which provides an environment to enhance groundbreaking research into one of Africa’s deadliest diseases, and the Wits Advanced Drug Delivery Platform (WADDP) Research Unit which conducts and delivers innovative drug delivery research solutions such as RapiDiss Wafer Technology. Other research initiatives have contributed to the understanding of humanmovement,sports medicineandsportseducation.
TheSchool of Pathology provides excellence in pathology in the form of service, teaching and research and contributes to the public health in South Africa through the provision of cost-effective, high-quality diagnostic laboratory services to the public sector. Research departments support diagnostic services and contribute to basic researchintheunderstandingofdiseaseprocesseswhilstalsoallowingforR&Dtyperesearch.TheSchoolteaches at both undergraduate and postgraduate levels. The School is home to a number of highly successful research entities including the Antiviral Gene Therapy Research Unit, the Wits Vaccines and Infectious Diseases Analytics ResearchUnit, and the HIV PathogenesisResearchUnit.
TheSchool of Oral Health Sciences is a leader in dental education on the continent graduating dentists, oral hygienists and specialists to make a significant contribution to the oralhealth of the community. Training is primarily undertaken at the Wits Dental Hospital, located within the Charlotte Maxeke Johannesburg Academic Hospital. Primary dental care is provided comprehensively by the undergraduate students of the School, who are under the close supervision of experienced faculty members. The School also supports extensive oral health care services to distantcommunities,throughinitiativessuchasTheTransnet-PhelophepaHealthCareTrain,hostedbytheTransnet Foundation andviaMobile DentalUnits.
TheSchoolofPhysiologyisthelargestentityteachingphysiologyinSouthAfrica,andprobablyonthecontinent.It plays a significant role in the training of physiologists; some of its graduates hold high-profile and prestigious appointmentsinSouthAfricaandthroughouttheworld.Indeed,itsgraduatescanbefoundasacademicstaffinmany universitiesteachingphysiologyinSouthAfricaandoverseas.TheSchooliswellknownlocallyandinternationallyfor the outstanding quality of its teaching and research and includes top-rated scientists as well as many experts renowned worldwide in their fields. Every year the Schoolis proud to be “home” to undergraduate and postgraduate students ofboth human andanimalphysiology.
Theoldest School in the Faculty, the School of Anatomical Sciences undertakes studies in morphological anatomy, structural biology (histology), and biological anthropology. Undergraduate students are instructed on the structure and development of the human body, in addition to human biology and cell biology. Research activities of the School are broad, covering the fields of Biological Anthropology, Comparative Neurosciences, Adult Neurogenesis, and Reproductive Biology. The recently formed Human Variation and Identification Research Unit (HIRU)offersaprofessionalforensicanthropologicalandarchaeologicalserviceofthehighestinternationalstandard.
EmergencyandFirePlansduringGraduations
1.Intheeventof anemergencyand/orfire:
• The presiding official (Chancellor/Vice-Chancellor/Deputy Vice-Chancellor) will make an announcement requesting guests, graduandsandstaff tokeepcalm andremainseated;
• TheUsherswillassistgueststoproceedtothenearestEmergencyexitsinordertoevacuatetheGreatHall inanorderlyfashion;
• Emergencyexitsignsarevisibleinredaboveallexitdoorssituatedonyourleftandrighthandsidesaswell asthe backoftheHall;
• TheUsherswillassisttheelderly and disabledguests outofthebuilding;
• Theacademicprocessiononstage must exitthroughthebackstagedoor;
• OnceoutsidetheGreatHallallguests,graduandsandstaffmustproceedtothemainassemblypointonthe piazza.
2.Intheeventof 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 200 000 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 100-year-old public university in South Africa, Wits is proud of its record of achievement as a significant contributor to our society. We contribute people to society that are training in their chosen field that are engaged and able to tackle problems using evidence-based solutions. We also contribute knowledge that has a positive impact on the quality of life. Wits for Good.
Wits is a world-class research 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. 60% out our 2021 publications included international collaborators.
• An intellectual hub of Africa, a founding member of the African Research University Alliance. In 2021 Wits published 167 articles with Namibia, 220 with Botswana, 326 with Zimbabwe and 137 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: 4 400 in 2021 and an average growth rate of 500 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 98 Rhodes Scholars.
• Proud of our current 40 000 students of whom 16 000 (40%) are undertaking postgraduate studies and learning to make their own unique contributions to the global knowledge base.
• Proud of our 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.
