The graduation ceremonies showcased the university’s commitment to producing globally competitive graduates while remaining deeply rooted in community development and African scholarship. Among the historic milestones celebrated was the graduation of the first cohort of 29 students from the pioneering Bachelor of Environmental Science in Disaster Risk Reduction programme, under the faculty of Science, Engineering and Agriculture. The university also honoured 44 current and former SRC members who graduated during the ceremonies, demonstrating the institution’s success in nurturing student leadership alongside academic achievement. Adding to the significance of the occasion, the youngest graduate was just 19 years old and received a certificate qualification, while the oldest graduate, aged 68, earned a PhD.
First cohort of Bachelor of Environmental Science in Disaster Risk Reduction programme
Several distinguished professionals and public figures were among the graduates, including Limpopo MEC for Economic Development, Environment and Tourism, Tshitereke Baldwin Matibe, who graduated with a Doctor of Philosophy in Public Administration, and Collins Chabane Local Municipality Municipal Manager, Risenga Richard Shilenge, who also obtained a Doctor of Philosophy in Public Administration. The university further celebrated healthcare leader Dr Fhatuwani Mbara, Chief Executive Officer of Dr George Mukhari Academic Hospital, who earned a Doctor of Philosophy degree in Public Health, reinforcing the institution’s growing impact in leadership, research, and public service. Additionally, Ms Kelibone Lebea, a member of the Limpopo Provincial Legislature, graduated with a Master of Administration degree, while Mr Mpho Given Rathando, a former presenter at Phalaphala FM, and now Manager of Communication and Events, Makhado Local Municipality, also graduated with a Master of Public Management degree.
The university also celebrated staff members who graduated with doctoral degrees as part of its “Growing Your Own Timber” initiative, reflecting its commitment to academic staff development and research excellence. The staff members conferred with PhDs included Mashudu Arnold Nenzhelele in Curriculum Studies, Kamogelo Manyatja in Curriculum Studies, Mulalo Esther Takalani in African Languages, Patrick Maweto in Law, Dikonketso Margaret Tlaamela in Botany, Mpho Edward Mashau in Agriculture (Food Science and Technology), Tabea Mokgalakane Mokhele in Agriculture (Food Science and Technology), Babatunde Solomon Ojelade in Environmental Science, and Shylet Anesu Nyamwanza in Urban and Regional Planning.
Vice-Chancellor and Principal
Vice-Chancellor and Principal
Reflecting on the institution’s 2021–2025 Strategic Plan, Prof Nthambeleni highlighted major achievements in student success, digital transformation, research innovation, infrastructure development, and community engagement. The university expanded smart classrooms, research laboratories, student accommodation, and hybrid learning systems while strengthening research in areas such as climate change, artificial intelligence, food security, renewable energy, indigenous knowledge systems, and public health. The institution also secured five prestigious DSTI/NRF Research Chairs, further cementing its status as a leading research-intensive rural university.Looking ahead, the university announced ambitious plans under its 2026–2030 Strategic Plan, including the development of a Civil Engineering programme, the establishment of a Makhado Satellite Campus, the launch of five Centres of Excellence and four Research Institutes, and expanded renewable energy initiatives through the Green Technology Confucius Institute. These initiatives aim to advance innovation, sustainability, socio-economic development, and the development of critical skills, aligned with national and continental priorities.
As he concluded his speech, the Vice-Chancellor and Principal of the University of Venda, Professor Bernard Nthambeleni, commended the Chancellor, Adv Mojanku Gumbi, for her remarkable generosity and unwavering commitment to student success. He praised her for consistently investing in the education of deserving students through financial support and empowerment initiatives that ease the burden of higher education for disadvantaged learners. Professor Nthambeleni described her contribution as a true reflection of servant leadership, noting that her dedication continues to inspire hope and create life-changing opportunities for many young people pursuing their academic dreams at the University.
Top performing students
The ceremonies were also defined by inspiring stories of resilience and determination from top-performing graduates. Twenty-year-old Sabnam Pir emerged as the university’s Best Over-all Student after graduating with distinction in the Bachelor of Commerce in Business Infor-mation Systems. Other celebrated achievers included the best overall student in the faculty of Health Sciences, Lister Mdlovu, who graduated Cum Laude in Nursing despite significant per-sonal and financial hardships; Best achiever in the faculty of Humanities, Social Sciences and Education, Mamongatane Lincan Monyepao, whose academic journey was shaped by faith and perseverance; best achiever in the Faculty of Science, Engineering and Agriculture, Zwoluga Singo, who excelled in Mathematics and Applied Mathematics despite financial adversity.
One of the most inspiring stories of resilience and hope was that of Miyelani Maswanganye, whose remarkable journey from rural hardship to academic excellence has become a beacon of inspiration for young people from disadvantaged communities. Despite facing poverty, per-sonal loss, and immense family responsibilities, Maswanganye graduated with distinction from the University of Venda with a Master of Arts in Rural Development. Her outstanding academic achievement later earned her the prestigious Chevening Scholarship, enabling her to pursue another Master’s degree in Development Studies at the Institute of Development Studies.
Chancellor
In a heartfelt congratulatory message to graduates, University of Venda Chancellor Mojanku Gumbi applauded students, parents, guardians, academic staff, and families for their dedica-tion and support throughout the graduates’ academic journey. Reflecting on the legacy of the Class of 1976, she reminded graduates that they are entering a South Africa that is “struggling to be born,” borrowing from philosopher Antonio Gramsci to describe a nation navigating challenges and transformation. She urged graduates to become thoughtful intellectuals who analyse the country’s history and present realities critically in order to contribute meaningfully to building a better society.
The Chancellor further encouraged graduates to uphold honesty and integrity as they em-bark on their future careers and responsibilities. She cautioned against the growing culture of dishonesty in society, emphasising the importance of truthfulness, accountability, and ethical leadership. Drawing inspiration from African scholar Amílcar Cabral, she urged graduates to “tell no lies” and remain principled despite life’s temptations and difficulties. She concluded by congratulating the graduates once again and encouraging them to celebrate their achieve-ment with pride and joy.
The Graduation was honoured by the presence of the Premier of Limpopo Province, Dr Phophi Ramathuba, Chairperson of Council, Mr Rudzani Mushweu, and President of Convocation, Mr Sylvester Motadi. Across the seven graduation sessions, the University also welcomed a distin-guished lineup of dignitaries, including representatives from government, the private sector,sponsors, donors, traditional and spiritual leaders, and proud parents and guardians.
As the University of Venda concluded its 2026 Autumn Graduation ceremonies, the institution not only celebrated academic achievement but also reaffirmed its growing role as a catalyst for transformation, innovation, and social impact. From stories of resilience and perseverance to groundbreaking research and future-focused strategic initiatives, the ceremonies reflected a university committed to shaping ethical, globally competitive graduates who can drive mean-ingful change in society. With thousands of graduates now stepping into the next chapter of their lives, UNIVEN continues to position itself as a beacon of hope, opportunity, and excel-lence for South Africa and the African continent.
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