VIRTUAL GRADUATION CEREMONY - Commerce, Law & Management Graduation Date: 28 July 2021 - Wits University
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VIRTUAL GRADUATION CEREMONY
Commerce, Law & Management
Graduation Date: 28 July 2021
Time: 09h30
1
A MESSAGE TO GRADUATES
FROM THE CHANCELLOR
Congratulations to all the graduands for working hard and staying
focused in order to achieve this milestone!! I also congratulate your
parents for not only supporting you but creating an environment
that allowed you to thrive. It takes a village to raise a child, the
aunts, the grandparents, amongst others are the reason we are
able to celebrate these achievements. Thanks to the lecturers who
contributed to your success. Well done.
May this be the beginning of a life of continuous learning, investing in
yourself, and investing in the communities that nurtured you. Nurture the
relationships that you’ve formed and those that you will form as you journey
through life. Umuntu umuntu ngabantu. Life is about collaboration with others.
Dream big, act consistently with integrity, self-respect and respect for others, and the
universe will conspire to make you achieve your dream/s. A positive attitude & hard work will
bring you closer to your dream and your purpose. Use others’ successes as your inspiration.
Wits is full of those, from Nobel Prize Laureates to world leaders in different fields of society.
You have received world class education. Use it to make a difference in other people’s
lives. Especially those less fortunate than yourself. We are a country with many needs,
identify a role you can play to make a positive difference; you owe it to this country and
the people that invested in you.
Find your Purpose and Live it. Help Africa Rise!
Dr Judy Dlamini
Chancellor
Wits University
There is no limit to what you can achieve,
if you put your mind and your best effort into it!
2 3
A MESSAGE TO GRADUATES GAUDEAMUS
FROM THE VICE-CHANCELLOR
AND PRINCIPAL
Gaudeamus igitur Let us rejoice therefore
Juvenes dum sumus While we are young.
Dear Wits Graduand Post jucundum juventutem After a pleasant youth
Post molestam senectutem After a troublesome old age
Congratulations on successfully completing your academic Nos habebit humus. The earth will have us.
programme at Wits, the premier university in Africa.
Ubi sunt qui ante nos Where are they
You are now a member of an elite group of graduates of this In mundo fuere? Who were in the world before us?
august institution. Our more than 200 000 alumni are at the cutting Vadite ad superos You may cross over to heaven
edge of excellence, both locally and internationally in business, the
Transite in inferos You may go to hell
public sector, the academy, and civil society. Today, you become a
member of that illustrious community. Hos si vis videre. If you wish to see them.
Over the past 99 years, Wits has grown into one of the leading universities on the continent Vita nostra brevis est Our life is brief
and a globally respected institution for its teaching and learning, knowledge creation and Brevi finietur. It will be finished shortly.
generation, and social impact. It has shaped the lives of many and changed society for Venit mors velociter Death comes quickly
good. You are now an integral part of this proud and enduring Rapit nos atrociter Atrociously, it snatches us away.
legacy. Nemini parcetur. No one is spared.
Wits is renowned for its intellectual leadership and for nurturing critical thinkers, creative Vivat academia Long live the academy!
innovators, problem-posers and problem solvers. Your success has furthered our Vivant professores Long live the teachers!
commitment to equipping the next generation of leaders with the skills and determination
Vivat membrum quodlibet Long live each male student!
that you will need to find innovative and sustainable solutions to the pressing problems of
the 21st Century. Vivat membra quaelibet Long live each female student!
Semper sint in flore. May they always flourish!
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 Vivant omnes virgines Long live all maidens
community that makes you a true global citizen. You have been part of an institution that Faciles, formosae. Easy and beautiful!
generates cutting-edge knowledge and innovation for South Africa and the world. It is Vivant et mulieres Long live mature women also,
now time for you to step into the world and use that experience, for good. Tenerae amabiles Tender and loveable
Bonae laboriosae. And full of good labor.
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 Vivant et republica Long live the State
participating in our alumni programme and by further advancing the reputation of your
et qui illam regit. And the One who rules it!
alma mater.
Vivat nostra civitas, Long live our City
Best wishes for the next steps of your journey. Maecenatum caritas And the charity of benefactors
Quae nos hic protegit. Which protects us here!
Professor Zeblon Vilakazi
Vice-Chancellor and Principal Pereat tristitia, Let sadness perish!
Wits University Pereant osores. Let haters perish!
Pereat diabolus, Let the devil perish!
Quivis antiburschius Let whoever is against our school
Atque irrisores. Who laughs at it, perish!
4 5
FACULTY OF COMMERCE, LAW AND MANAGEMENT
ORDER OF PROCEDURE DEAN: PROFESSOR I VALODIA BCom (Unisa) BCom Hons (Natal) MSc (Lancaster) DEcon (KwaZulu-Natal)
28 JULY 2021 AT 09:30
Bachelor of Commerce
The audience will rise as the academic procession enters the hall and will AMIROODEEN, Jameel Ahmed GOVENDER, Rishlin
remain standing until the Chancellor is in place
AMOD, Mohammed Ozayr HALIM, Raees
The Chancellor will constitute the congregation BAARD, Maxwell Clifford HARTZENBERG, Jodie
BHAYROO, Dhanir HURWITZ, Brittany Amber
The Chancellor will welcome the graduands and guests
BODA, Nabeel ISAAC, Michaela
Address to the congregation BRADLEY, Jasmine Marie JADA, Yusuf
CANTRELL, Timothy Evan JIA, Liu Ang
Conferment of degrees CHETTY, Janice Bernalee KAPONGO, Sugrun
CHETTY, Marcus KARAPPEN, Mckayla Leah
The President of Convocation will address the graduates
CHIBVONGODZE, Vongai KARODIA, Nazeerah
The Chancellor will dissolve the congregation CHISEPO, Isheanesu Augustine KATZEW, Liora Beth (with Distinction)
COOVADIA, Iman KGANAKGA, Rasako
The audience will stand while Ihele is played
DASHKEVICH, Phillip KGARE, Sibusiso Kamogelo
Members of the audience are requested to stand while the academic DA SILVA, Keegan KHAN, Na'ilah
procession leaves the hall and not to leave the hall before the end of the
DAVILA, Sandra Cristina Martins KIGGELL, Rachel Sarah Mackay
ceremony.
DAWOOD, Nazeefah KNIGHT, Emma Francesca
IMPORTANT NOTICE DINDAR, Ebrahim KOMMURU, Shreya
In the event of load-shedding or power cuts, the Great Hall may become
DORTLEY, Devon Aubrey LANDER, Kiera Reece
totally dark until the generator comes into
operation. DOS SANTOS, Daniella Franca LEKABE, Calven Tumelo
FITZGERALD, Ashleigh Paige LUO, Melvis
GOSANI, Vuyisa LUTHULI, Ananda
GOVENDER, Jeremy MABELE, Exauce Lingandu
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MACHAVA, Siyabonga Elias MOSITO, Koketso Mabanyana SADER, Ishaaq SNOYMAN, Alyssa
MACKENZIE, Jason Timothy MOTOTOMPEDI, Ngokoana Camilla SAMSON, Ian David Harvey SONI, Krishnapriya
MAFALE, Tsholofelo MUKWEVHO, Mukundi Carnitious SEBUYIRA, Tendo Lubega SUTTA, Raymond Adorat (with Distinction)
MAGOLOZA, Xolani MUNYAI, Tondhani Cassius SEEDAT, Shaheerah Mohamed SWANEPOEL, Cameron
MAHARAJ, Akshay Rakesh MUNYANGANE, Ritshidze Richmond SERITENG, Baby Refentse TERESPOLSKY, Dylan Joshua
MAKDA, Azraa MUSARA, Tendai Michael SESHIBE, Gontse Kamogelo TSEBE, Pitsi Nickson
MAKHAFOLA, Malose NABI, Mohammed Waheed SHANKMAN, Chad TWALA, Nonhlanhla
MALETE, Felistas NABO, Sihle Sibongile SIBUYI, Hlayiseka Matimu VAN DEN HEUVEL, Jadyn
MALULEKE, Bokang Phetole NAGIA, Avikaash SIMON, Talia Lee (with Distinction) VIRGILI, Romano
MAMPURU, Lethabo Khutso Makanyuge NAIDOO, Shanice Andrea SINGH, Shivan Dharam YAKO, Lithemba Lindokuhle
MARARA, Maranatha Tshegofatso Tshanduko NGCOBO, Zwelethu SISSING, Carshiefa ZWANE, Musa
MAROPOLA, Nape Reitumetse NGULELE, Melody Precious SIWELA, Thato Moshibudi Rebecca
MASHALA, Margret Manuku NOOR MOHAMED, Imaan
MAVUNDLA, Saneli NTUMBA, Nathan Beya Postgraduate Diploma in Accountancy
MAYET, Muhammad Yousuf NYDOO, Nastassja ABRAHAM, Kyle Timothy CHETTY, Dylan Reece
MBADI, Ntuthuzelo OLATUNJI, Emmanuel Ayobamidele ADAM, Aaminah CHIDRAWI, Matthew Joseph
MBHELE, Khanya Moleboheng PERUMAL, Subashen AHMED, Fathima CHUENE, Reabetswe Morutse
MBONISWA, Bolekwa PHILLANDER, Robin Alistair AHMED, Luqmaan DA SILVA, Daniella Paulo
MDUTYANA, Liso POULTNEY, James Alexander Ayres ANDERSON, Aldrin Sheldon DA SILVA, Jennifer
MMOKO, Relupiloe Mmanoko PURMASIR, Timal BAKTAWAR, Dharmika DE MENDONÇA, Brittany Ann
MOCHINE, Kelebogile Oratile RAFFEE, Mahfouz Ahmad BALOYE, Nhlalala Ellyn DE SOUSA, Daniela Sofia Alves
MODLIN, Amy-lee RAJIN, Rochelle BHENGU, Kwanda Michael DLAMINI, Simlindile Nontombi
MOFOKENG, Lerato Perseverence RAMAILANE, Lesego Katlego BOUWMEESTER, Rosemary DUBE, Dylan Owethu
MOHLABA, Khomanani Dzibula Emmah RAMSAMMY, Bhavishal BRAININ, Chad DU PREEZ, Nicole
MOODLEY, Surina RANKAPOLE, Bohlale Modisa Phuti CHAGAN, Mayur EVERITT, Caitlin Stacy
MOOLLA, Muhammed REICHENBERG, Brenna CHEN, Victor GANTSHO, Lindokuhle
MOONEY, Timothy ROBERTSON, Matthew Peter Alan CHENG, Chih-hsin GENGADU, Jennifer Yakshini
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HALL, Justin Matthew (with Distinction) MAGORO, Frank Matome MKHWANAZI, Mlungisi NTLANGANISO, Thina
HALLAM, Natasha MAHARAJ, Karishma MMOLA, Lebogang Evans PARKER, Ashlynn Delrene
HANSRAJ, Shayur MAHLOBO, Sibahle Queen-Rose MNGADI, Nqobile Percival PATEL, Nikhil
HASSAN, Zaakirah Omar MAHMOOD, Nihaal MODISE, Thabang Boitumelo PATEL, Rushill Rohit
HERSHBERG, Tammy MAJAKWARA, Tanaka MOETJIE, Selaelo Charmain PELWAN, Safwan
ILYAS, Asad Mohammad MAJOLA, Nolwazi MOHAMMED, Muhammed Reza PENTIA, Prishani
JOSSEL, Hannah Amy MAKGOO, Omphile MOHLALA, Karabo PFEIFFER, Natalie
KABANI, Natalie MAKHAFOLA, Boitumelo Jessica Isme MOLEFE, Kekeletso PHYLANDER, Lerato Hope
KALANGA, Mzwakhe Siyabonga MAKOLA, Shereen Keitumetse MOLOPE, Phillis Lerato PIETERSEN, Jeffrey Adam
KGASWANE, Omphemetse Donald MANGANYE, Sibusiso MOPELI, Relebohile Phelang PILLAY, Karisha
KHAN, Talha MAPISA, Shaun Farai MOREMI, Bianca Dimakatso PILLAY, Sankara
KHOSA, Wisdom Tshepiso MAPOKGOLE, Wendy MORRIS, Emma Jane PRAG, Hemal Jayesh
KHUZWAYO, George MARINKOVIC, Kristina MOTLOUNG, Mpiteng Tabita RAMA, Jayshal
KOELLNER, Brett Hermann MAROUN, Dylan MPHAHLELE, Shafali Maki Mpho RAMBALLI, Kirti
KOLIA, Naa`ilah MARTINI, Alessia MTHEMBU, Nkosinomusa Ntokozo RAMCHARAN, Lerissa
KWELEMTINI, Afika MASANGO, Bridget Gugulethu MTOTOBA, Chulumanco Ntombentsha RANJIT, Mikaila
LA BERCENSIE, Francisca Kassandra MASELESELE, Aluwani Willwright MULLA, Aasiyah Abdul Hamid RASSOOL, Habbeebah
LANGA, Lungile MASHIYA, Ndingeko Richard MUTHEGO, Lufuno Sydney RAWAT, Abubakr
LATIF, Micaela MATHE, Atang Reabetsoe NAIDOO, Tertia ROSENTHAL, Jonathan
LEIDENBERG, Dino Justus MATJEKE, Nkateko NAIDU, Camilla Jacqueline SACHS, Shaina Jade
LESUTHU, Mphoentle MAYET, Saffiyah NCALA, Ayanda SEIMELA, Leshate Jonnathan
LIPHAPANG, Naledi MERCHAK, Gerard Anthony Jude NDOU, Ndamulelo SHAIKH, Sumaiyabanu
LOCKHAT, Yusuf Ismail MGOZA, Mlungisi Gift NDUMO, Nhlanhla Peter SHANKMAN, Megan
LOVATT, Matthew Jon MGWENYA, Wandile Zwelakhe NEPHALAMA, Vhahangwele Khodani SHIKWAMBANA, Nkateko
LU, Henglong James MILLER, Dylan Christopher NGOBENI, Nkhensani SIBANDA, Busisiwe Samantha
MABUNDA, Siyabonga MKENKU, Gomolemo Precious NGWENYA, Zamangwenya Nqobile SIGWADI, Lufuno Chantelle
MADIKIZELA, Ambeswa MKHALANE, Pheziwe NKOSI, Smangele Sthembile SIWELE, Ntsako Precious
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10 11
SIZIBA, Veronicah TLHOLOE, Goitseona Koketso Postgraduate Diploma in Specialised Accountancy
SPELMAN, Kamvalethu TSHABALALA, Sisekelo Sisindvo Goodwill ALEXANDRE, Hlengiwe Nontobeko NGAKE, Boitumelo Shantelle
SULIMAN, Fayyadh VAN PRAAG, Gabriella CHILUPE, Kalenga (with Distinction) SIDUMO, Sinovuyo Magamase
TABIT, Wendy VENTER, Jarred (with Distinction) JADWAT, Mikaeel SKOSANA, Ntombifuthi Betty
TALIWE, Nokuzola WADEE, Naeem Faizal KHUMALO-KAPONDA, Edward William SPEELMAN, Luciano Thandeka
THEBA, Romaan WAJA, Muhamed KOMANE, Lesego John SWANA, Khanya
THOBANE, Priscilla Neo WORTON, Richard James MALEBYE, Keatlaretse Boikanyo TABATA, Nande
THOKAN, Naqeeb XABA, Wandile MAROANENG, Bonolo WALLACE, Dakota Xia
THOMADAKIS, Eleni Maria YENDE, Sebenzile Sarah MCETYWA, Nokuzola
TING CHONG, Brendon Donovan ZUNGU, Vuyani
Postgraduate Diploma in Taxation
Postgraduate Diploma in Law BAKTAWAR, Barvicksha NIZETICH, Dino
BOLOKO, Zintle Gloria Labour Law CHIPARE, Carthy Nyasha NKADIMENG, Hendrick Legamane
CLAYTON, Akbar Corporate Law GOVENDER, Allesia NTSANE, Lerato Moliehi
HEYERDAHL, Jens Thor Björn Corporate Law MAGEZA, Faith Palesa PUDI, Gontse Ruta Boikanyo
KGOMOMMU, Tshepo Pension Funds Law MAKDA, Ismail QULO, Olwethu Lisa Wanele
LUTCHAN, Shireen Corporate Law MANKAHLA, Asavela RAMABULANA, Khathutshelo Godfrey
MAFALO, Makwati Tax Law MASEKO, Ntokozo Vanessa SELEBANO, Reabetswe Pheladi
MATHABE, Reabetsoe Mantsae Commercial and Business Law MHLONGO, Nomsa Petience SINOBOLO, Phindulo
MDLULWA, Akona Commercial and Business Law MISTRY, Riya TOERIEN, Johan Cornelis (with Distinction)
MKHIZE, Sithuthukile Pearl General MTHEMBU, Zizile Sinazo
MOAGI, Maletjatji Pheladi Commercial and Business Law
NHLAPO, Kgomotso Information and Communications Law
NOKO, Israel Lindokuhle Commercial and Business Law
OLIVIER, Liesl Olivier Corporate Law
RAMADZHIA, Vusani Corporate Law
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OFFICERS OF THE UNIVERSITY
FACULTY OF COMMERCE, LAW AND MANAGEMENT
Chancellor
DR NJ DLAMINI MBChB (Natal) DBL (Unisa) MBA (Witwatersrand) IEC (USA) Situated in the heart of the most powerful economic hub on the African continent, drawing on the best academic
talent in the region, and connected to the most influential social agents in the country, the Faculty of Commerce,
Vice-Chancellor and Principal Law and Management offers an exciting and contemporary set of study programmes that grapple with the economic
PROFESSOR Z VILAKAZI BSc (Manchester) MSc PhD (Witwatersrand) MASSAf FAAS and social challenges of our country, and the economies across the globe. The Faculty’s academic programmes
aim to graduate students who study and specialize in both the technical skills that are driving and shaping modern
Chairman of Council economies and understanding the social, political and legal implications of these patterns of economic
MR I SHONGWE BA (Wesleyan) MPhil (Oxford) development. The Faculty offers a unique opportunity to study and understand the complex developments in the
economy and the social, legal and economic consequences of these patterns of development and growth.
Senior Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Academic)
PROFESSOR R OSMAN BA (Witwatersrand) HDipEd BEd (Unisa) MEd PhD (Witwatersrand) MASSAf
The Faculty consists of six Schools:
Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Research and Innovation)
PROFESSOR L MORRIS BSc (Hons) (Witwatersrand) DPhil (Oxford) FRSSA FAAS MASSAf • The School of Accountancy,
• The School of Business Sciences,
Registrar • The School of Economics and Finance,
MS CG CROSLEY BA HDipEd (Witwatersrand) BEd Hons (Unisa) MEd (Witwatersrand) • The School of Law,
• The Graduate School of Business Administration (Wits Business School), and
Chief Operating Officer • The Wits School of Governance
MR F SIBANYONI BSc (Eng) (Natal) MBA (Cape Town) PrEng SMICMEESA
The Faculty offers three undergraduate programmes in Commerce:
Chief Financial Officer
MR PC DESAI BCom (University of Durban, Westville) BCompt. Hons (Unisa) CA (SA) 1. a three-year Bachelor of Commerce (B.Com),
2. a three-year Bachelor of Accounting Science (B.AccSc), and
Dean of Student Affairs 3. a three-year Bachelor of Economic Science (B.EconSc).
MR JAP SEPTEMBER BA MPhil (Cape Town)
Three undergraduate programmes are offered in Law:
1. a four-year LLB programme as a first degree for students wishing to study law
DEANS OF THE FACULTIES 2. a three-year LLB programme for students who hold any prior degree but who have not completed any
law subjects, and
Faculty of Commerce, Law and Management 3. a two-year LLB programme for students who hold any prior degree who have law as a major subject.
PROFESSOR I VALODIA BCom (Unisa) BCom Hons (Natal) MSc (Lancaster) DEcon (KwaZulu-Natal)
Faculty of Engineering and the Built Environment In addition the Faculty offers its undergraduate B.Com degree on a part-time study basis through Wits Plus, which
PROFESSOR IR JANDRELL BSc (Eng) GDE PhD (Witwatersrand) IntPE(SA) PrEng FSAAE FSAIEE SMIEEE serves as a centre for part-time studies at Wits University.
At the postgraduate level the Faculty offers a full spectrum of honours degrees, postgraduate diplomas, Masters
Faculty of Health Sciences
degrees and Ph.D programmes across its six Schools. The Faculty offers exciting opportunities for MBA and
PROFESSOR SA MADHI MBBCh MMed PhD (Witwatersrand) FCPaeds(SA)
related qualifications in the Wits Business School - the most research-productive business school in South Africa
- and public management and development degrees offered by the Wits School of Governance - the leading
Faculty of Humanities
South African centre for public service postgraduate training. In addition to Doctoral degrees, Masters degrees
PROFESSOR G STEVENS BA (Cape Town) BA Psych Hons MPsych (Western Cape) DLitt et Phil (Unisa)
and Postgraduate Diplomas are offered in Commerce, Accountancy, Taxation, Economics, Business Economics,
Applied Development Economics and Policy, Law, and Management.
Faculty of Science
PROFESSOR N CHETTY BSc Hons (Natal) MS PhD (Urbana-Champaign) MSAIP MASSAf The Faculty has an extensive offering of short course programmes.
President of Convocation Our Faculty has consistently produced the best results in the final Board examination of the South African Institute
S BOLON BA Hons MA (Witwatersrand) of Chartered Accountants (SAICA), our law graduates are sought after by the top legal firms and our economics
and business sciences graduates are leaders in corporate management, policymaking, governance and
regulatory institutions in South Africa.
Our researchers are at the cutting edge of global research on, among others, banking and finance, social
entrepreneurship, the labour market, macroeconomics, inequality, human rights law, commercial law,
constitutional law, information systems, governance, public finance and health economics.
9 10
14 15Illustrious Alumni
Well-known Wits Commerce, Law and Management graduates include Ismail Mahomed, the first Chief Justice in
post-apartheid South Africa; Arthur Chaskalson, former Chief Justice of South Africa; Thuli Madonsela, former
Public Protector of South Africa; George Bizos, Human Rights Advocate; Joel Joffe, attorney for Nelson Mandela
and the others at Rivonia Treason trial; Sir Sydney Kentridge, leading advocate in the Treason trial and many
other prominent trials in South Africa and the UK; Margaret Marshall, former Chief Justice of the Massachusetts
Supreme Court; Donald Gordon, founder of Liberty Life in 1958 and after whom the Donald Gordon Medical
Centre is named; Brian Joffe, founder of the Bidvest Group; Natie Kirsh, prominent South African businessman; Emergency and Fire Plans during Graduations
Patrice Motsepe, South African mining magnate; Koos Bekker, Chairman of Naspers; Gail Kelly, Australian and
South African businesswoman; Adrian Gore, CEO of Discovery Holdings; Sir Ernest Oppenheimer, founder of
1. In the event of an emergency and/or fire:
Anglo American; and Maria Ramos, South African economist, businesswoman and former CEO of the ABSA
group.
• 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.
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16 17NATIONAL ANTHEM MESSAGE FROM THE PRESIDENT
OF CONVOCATION
Dear Wits Graduate,
There are a few defining moments in life – and it is without doubt that
Nkosi sikelel’ iAfrika graduation is one of them!
Maluphakanyisw’ uphondo lwayo,
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
Yizwa imithandazo yethu, many challenges, but a world that is also filled with limitless possibilities.
Nkosi sikelela May you meet all the challenges and opportunities that await you with
Thina lusapho lwayo. pride, drive, passion, innovation, social-conscience and positive-purpose.
Morena boloka setjhaba sa heso, In addition to earning the degree conferred upon you today, you have
O fedise dintwa le matshwenyeho, also earned the right to be associated with a special group of individuals – the
O se boloke, O se boloke setjhaba sa heso, 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.
Setjhaba sa, South Afrika — South Afrika.
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
Uit die blou van onse hemel, with several unique privileges, which include nominating the Chancellor of the University. The
Uit die diepte van ons see, Convocation Executive has two members on the Wits Council and maintains other regular
Oor ons ewige gebergtes, contact with the University to ensure the voice of the Convocation is represented at the highest
Waar die kranse antwoord gee, levels of The University.
Sounds the call to come together, 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
And united we shall stand, value of your degree by promoting Wits’ image, preserving our values, and contributing towards
Let us live and strive for freedom our ongoing development, ensuring that we grow in stature as a globally competitive, proudly
In South Africa our land. 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, invitations to events and reunions and all the latest news about
Wits and prominent Witsies: https://www.wits.ac.za/alumni/updateyourdetails/
I would like to extend a warm welcome to you – you are now a #Witsie4Life!
Stacey-Lee Bolon
President of Convocation
The Wits Choir
Convocation is a statutory body that includes all graduates of the University.
The Wits Choir has been under the direction of conductor and trainer, Dalene Convocation is the largest constituency of the University (since the founding of the
Hoogenhout, since 1995. Their repertoire is colourful and vibrant. They perform regularly University in 1922, graduates number over 200 000). Its statutory mandate is to “…
at graduations and important ceremonies. The Wits Choir has toured internationally discuss and state its opinion upon any matters relating to the University including
as well as playing host to other choirs here. They are also active in the community, matters referred to it by the Council” and allows for the views of graduates to be
undertaking choral outreach programmes. represented at the highest levels of governance of the University.
18 19IHELE (THE PROCESSION) THE UNIVERSITY MACE
IHELE THE PROCESSION
Words and music by S.B.P. Mnomiya Maces were originally weapons of defence, designed
to break through armour. In medieval times, bishops
Anhom carried a mace instead of a sword into battle to
Falalala enable them to defend themselves in accordance
Obani labo? Who are those? with the canonical rule that forbade a priest to shed
Baphi Ahhom? Which, Falalala? blood. In time, the mace has come to be regarded
as a symbol of delegated authority vested in a person
Ngibona beza I see them coming or an institution. At this University, it is a symbol of the
Beyikazela Walking with swinging garments authority vested in the Chancellor and a reminder of
Bathwel ‘ongiyane They are wearing head rings the mandate given by the legislature of this country to
Bavela kuphi na? Where do they come from? the University to grant degrees.
Obani labo? Who are those?
Ongqondongqondo They are people with knowledge The University mace is the work of the Edinburgh designer,
Osibakhulu They are people in authority silversmith and engraver, William Kirk, who designed and made
Yibo labo hhom! These are the ones 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
Yini na leyo? What is that? kilograms. The heraldic devices used in the decoration reflect the character of this University
Ihele It is a procession as an institution of learning, set in a mining centre within the Republic of South Africa.
Ihele lezingwazi zakithi A procession of our heroes
Ahhom udwendwe The head of the mace with its spreading vertical blades is symbolic of the horns of
Ahhom It is a procession a springbok. The central vertical spike is representative of a rock drill on the mine, and
Udwendwe lwezingqwele zakithi A procession of our champions the amber stone set in the head is intended as a tribute to a past Chancellor through its
Nant’ ihele Here is a procession association with his name, Bernstein, which in German means amber stone. The heavy
Longqondongqondo Of people of knowledge quality of the head is consistent with the traditional concept of the mace as a weapon
Nant’ ihele Here is a procession of defence. The collar repeats the shape of the head. It consists of eight cogs which
Losibakhulu Of people of knowledge symbolise the cog-wheel in the University coat of arms and represents mining and industry.
Udwendwe A procession The shaft is octagonal and divided into three sections. The coat of arms of the University is
Udwendwe Iwezingqwele zakithi A procession of our heroes 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
Ihele is known as the ‘Black’ Gaudeamus Igitur. In song, the writer, Mnomiya uses Republic of South Africa. It is a constant reminder to members of Council and Senate
very poetic language to describe a graduation ceremony. The soloist sings of the to uphold at all times the rights, powers and privileges of the University and its governing
‘strange’ procession of people in long robes and head gear. The choir responds by bodies.
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!).
20 21ACADEMIC DRESS DISTINCTLY WITS
The academic dress of this University is patterned on that of the Universities of Oxford and Wits is one of only two universities in Africa to be placed in the top 200 (from amongst
Cambridge, with modifications based on the model of the University of London and certain 23 000 universities world-wide) in two separate international rankings. A world-class research
individual features, particularly in the costumes of office bearers and the hoods of degrees university, Wits aims to be in the top league of world leading universities built on intellectual
of bachelor and master. excellence, international competitiveness and measurable impact.
Dress for Office Bearers Wits is:
• The Chancellor wears a scarlet silk gown with a broad facing of black velvet down • internationally recognised for its research and its accredited academic programmes
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 • an active leader that takes a stand on social issues
gold silk down each side, embroidered in blue, the sleeves being lined with gold • an engaged University committed to the advancement of the public good
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 • The latest 2017 alma mater survey by Times Higher education ranking placed Wits
down each side and around the neck, the sleeves being lined with gold silk. The amongst the world’s top 100 universities from which Fortune 500 CEOs graduated
cap is of the same design as that of the Chancellor.
• a University that boasts highly skilled teams working in astronomy, physics and related
• 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 areas on the SKA project and other SA telescopes, and at CERN in Switzerland where
facing and sleeves of the gown and of the cord and tassels of the cap is silver-grey. Wits academics made a significant contribution to finding the Higgs Boson
• The gown of the President of Convocation is of blue silk, with a broad facing of • the institution that maintains the highest proportion of independent financial support
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. • a leader in the evolutionary sciences and the curators of priceless faunal, floral and
• The Registrar wears a black silk gown with a broad facing of blue silk down each hominid collections including the Taung Skull, Little Foot, Sediba and Naledi fossils
side, bordered with gold braid. The cap is the same as that of the President of
Convocation. • proud of the four Nobel laureates and the 91 Rhodes Scholars that have emanated from
• A member of Council wears a black silk gown with a broad facing of gold silk. The the University
cap is the same as that of the Chancellor. • the intellectual hub of Africa and has over 40 key projects actively running on the
• The gown of the President of the Students’ Representative Council is black with a continent
broad facing of blue satin.
• proud of its more than 200 000 graduates. More than 97% of Wits graduates obtain
Graduands’ Gowns permanent employment within 6 months of graduation
• 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. • renowned for its balanced approach to all disciplines. Half of all enrolments are in the
• The gown for the degree of Doctor of Philosophy is scarlet, after the University of Science, Engineering and Technology fields
London pattern. • proud of it academics who wrote four research articles that are ranked in the world’s top
• The gown for a senior doctorate is the same as that for the PhD, but with a gold 0.1% best articles in 2016
satin facing on each side of the gown and with the sleeve button and cord in gold.
• pleased to collaborate with peers across 179 countries, including all the countries in Africa,
The Academic Hood bar two. Outside of South Africa, Wits produces most of its research in collaboration with
The academic hood is the principal feature of the costume for holders of our degrees leading universities and research centres in the world.
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.
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