More than 2 000 graduates have been conferred with degrees at the University of Mpumalanga (UMP) in Mbombela. The University’s Chancellor, Justice Mandisa Maya, Vice Chancellor, Professor Thoko Mayekiso and Council Chairperson, Mr. Sabelo Mahlalela presided over the 10th graduation ceremony in Mbombela recently. Deputy Minister of Basic Education, Dr. Reginah Mhaule and MEC for Education in Mpumalanga, Ms. Cathy Dlamini were among the dignitaries who attended the occasion.
The Premier, Mr. Mandla Ndlovu says the incremental number of graduates is a sign of determination by the communities in Mpumalanga to pursue academic knowledge, and the University’s capacity to meet the demand. “The graduates are a symbol of hard work and resilience to acquire academic knowledge for personal development by all the students. We congratulate all the graduates who obtained their qualifications. Equally, we applaud the management and the lecturers for investing in the human development of our communities,” the Premier expatiated.
A total number of 61 students obtained Masters’ degrees and 170 completed with distinctions. One student, Khumbelo Mabadahanye made history as the first student to complete a Doctor of Philosophy (PHD) at the University since inception in 2014. Among the graduates, are those whose distinct accomplishments earned them the Varsity’s merit awards, such as the Vice-Chancellor’s scholarship and academic excellence awards.
Premier Ndlovu says the accomplishment of the graduates inspires hope that the country’s investment in education is producing the desired outcome. “These accomplishments confirm that the country’s post-Matric education is on the right track, and should be sustained. It is incumbent upon the graduates to use their acquired knowledge to build a Mpumalanga province that we all aspire to see, in line with the priorities of the 7th administration”, the Premier stated.
ENDS…
Issued by the Mpumalanga Provincial Government
Office of the Premier
Enquiries: Mr George Mthethwa (Provincial Government Spokesperson)
Contacts: (013) 766 2242/ 083 302 2774