Vhuthuhawe Rosette Madevhele, a proud University of Venda (UNIVEN) alumna has been honoured as the Top Graduating Undergraduate Student in Agricultural Economics at the 62nd Annual Agricultural Economics Association of South Africa (AEASA) Conference that was held on 30 September 2025 in Irene, Pretoria.
The AEASA Conference, themed “Market Concentration and Competition Law in Agriculture: Experience and Lessons,” brought professionals and scholars together who contribute to advancing agricultural economics in South Africa. The award recognises outstanding academic excellence and dedication in the field.
Reflecting on her achievement, Vhuthuhawe described the recognition as a culmination of years of dedication, perseverance, and hard work. She graduated from UNIVEN in May 2025 as the Top Student in Agricultural Economics, marking a significant milestone in her academic journey.
Originally from Louis Trichardt, Eltivillas, Vhuthuhawe’s journey has been shaped by a strong commitment to education and a clear focus on achieving her goals. From the beginning of her studies, she made a promise to herself that nothing would come between her and her academic aspirations. Maintaining high academic standards required consistent discipline, long study hours, and the sacrifice of leisure time, all anchored by her determination to go beyond what was expected in lectures and assignments.
“I motivated myself every day with the promise that I would keep the flag high, honouring myself by continuing to strive for excellence through focus, hard work, and perseverance,” she said.
Her academic journey gained momentum in 2022, during her second year, when the Department of Agricultural Economics and Agribusiness hosted a career exhibition. There, she was recognised as the top student in several modules, a turning point that deepened her motivation to maintain high standards and push herself further.
Throughout her studies, Vhuthuhawe remained focused on deepening her understanding of Agricultural Economics while developing both theoretical and practical skills. She notes that balancing academic workload, field visits, research projects, and personal responsibilities was among her greatest challenges. Yet, these experiences taught her valuable lessons in time management, organisation, and prioritisation.
“Managing lectures, research projects, field visits, and examinations preparation often tested my time management and organisational skills. But it taught me how to stay organised, manage my time well, and focus on what truly matters,” she explained.
Offering a word of encouragement to current students, Vhuthuhawe emphasised the importance of goal-setting, self-improvement, and perseverance:
“Set clear goals, work hard to improve yourself, and stay open to new ideas that help you grow. Keep a positive mindset, seek support when needed, and motivate yourself every day to keep moving forward. Remember, success comes from dedication, focus, and believing in your own potential. Plan your time wisely and balance your studies with your personal life.”
She concluded with a quote that continues to inspire her:
“As Stephen Covey said, ‘The key is not to prioritise what is on your schedule but to schedule your priorities.’ This means you must focus on what truly matters most and take control of your own success.”
Through her journey, Vhuthuhawe Rosette Madevhele stands as a shining example of how determination, focus, and self-belief can turn challenges into achievements, inspiring the next generation of Agricultural Economists to pursue excellence with purpose and passion.
Issued by:
Department of Marketing, Branding and Communication
University of Venda
Tel: 082 868 2218 / 082 868 1811
