Convocation AGM Celebrates Progress, Integrity, and a Shared Vision for the Future

The University of Venda (UNIVEN) hosted its 2025 Convocation Annual General Meeting (AGM) on Saturday, 25 October 2025, at the Senate Chambers, a landmark occasion that brought together graduates from across generations, members of the Executive and Senior Management, academics, and alumni leaders to reflect on the institution’s progress and reaffirm their collective commitment to the University’s mission.

Held in accordance with paragraph 56(1)– (4) of the Institutional Statute, the AGM reflected UNIVEN’s culture of accountability, inclusivity, and excellence. Discussions centred on the State of the Campus Report, the President of Convocation’s Report, and proposed amendments to the Convocation Constitution.

Delivering his State of the Campus Report, the Vice-Chancellor and Principal, Prof Bernard Nthambeleni, emphasised that the AGM serves as a vital platform for strengthening the relationship between the University and its alumni. “It is an opportunity for our graduates to come together, network, and share experiences as part of engaged scholarship,” he said..

Prof Nthambeleni reflected on UNIVEN’s journey under the 2021–2025 Strategic Plan, which has steered the institution from its historical challenges towards academic distinction and institutional credibility.

He reported that the University’s undergraduate student success rate has consistently surpassed national targets, reaching 81% in the latest audited year. Postgraduate growth has been equally remarkable, with PhD graduations rising from just two in 2019 to 88 in 2025, a milestone attributed to strengthened academic supervision and progressive research policies.

Highlighting UNIVEN’s reputation for sound governance, Prof Nthambeleni revealed that the University has achieved six consecutive unqualified audits and was recently ranked 11th among Sub-Saharan institutions in the Times Higher Education listings.

Infrastructure development remains a key driver of transformation, with the completion of the R200 million New Health Sciences Building, a Nursing Simulation Centre, newly refurbished lecture halls, and expanded student residences. The recently completed projects include the R164 million Punda Maria Road and Bridge, a new university gate, upgraded residences, refurbished teaching spaces, the Main Administration Building. The projects on the pipeline, among other, are the establishment of satellite campuses in Makhado and Nkuzana and the Advancement Office in Pretoria for enhancing partnerships and fundraising.

Innovation and entrepreneurship are also at the heart of UNIVEN’s mission, with the launch of the Centre for Entrepreneurship and Rapid Incubation and the Green Technology Confucius Institute,marking key milestones in positioning the University as a leader in renewable energy education and enterprise development. The new academic offerings, such as the Executive MBA and MBA as well as the accredited BCom Accounting, further enhance UNIVEN’s standing. Reaffirming the university’s social mission, Prof Nthambeleni highlighted the removal of application fees and the improvement of facilities for students living with disabilities.

Prof Nthambeleni concluded by reaffirming the University’s commitment to academic excellence, social impact, and ethical leadership. “Our achievements reflect a clear trajectory towards becoming a stronger, more competitive institution ready to play in the top league of universities,” he said, urging alumni to “join hands to ensure we support the vision of the University.”

Mr Sylvester Motadi, President of Convocation, delivered a compelling address affirming Convocation’s critical role in governance, alumni engagement, and institutional advancement. “Convocation is not a title, but a responsibility, the bridge between the past and the future,” he declared.

Mr Motadi highlighted significant achievements under his leadership, including the establishment of alumni chapters across provinces, increased alumni participation in development initiatives, and successful fundraising campaigns. Notably, the 2025 Gala Dinner raised R417,100, while welfare initiatives such as the Thoho ya Nzie Campaign and external partnerships have collectively secured over R15 million in student support.

He applauded alumni who continue to uplift students through scholarships, mentorship, and collaborative projects, citing contributors like Mr Talifhani Tshitwamulomoni, whose organisation raised R6.6 million for student aid.

Calling for unity and ethical leadership, Mr Motadi urged graduates to reject misinformation and uphold the values of accountability and service. “Convocation is not a battlefield of personalities or factions, but a platform of service. Let us reclaim the true spirit of Convocation – one of knowledge, unity, and responsibility,” he said.

In his closing remarks, the Deputy President of Convocation, Mr Rudzani Mushweu, thanked all attendees for their discipline, commitment, and passion. Reflecting on UNIVEN’s transformation from a “caravan park” to a “university of excellence,” he reminded members that “leadership is not about individuals, but about collective contribution towards progress.”

He encouraged members to embrace constructive dialogue and remain inspired by UNIVEN’s shared mission of service, integrity, and excellence.

The 2025 Convocation AGM not only celebrated the University’s progress but also reignited a shared commitment among alumni and stakeholders to sustain UNIVEN’s transformation journey, affirming that its greatest strength lies in unity, accountability, and visionary leadership.

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