The University of Venda (Univen) hosted the Mid-Year Examination Prayer Service on Monday, 21 May 2018 at the University’s Auditorium. The ceremony that was themed ‘Get Ready for Examination’, aimed at praying for students as they will be sitting for their mid-year examination from Thursday, 24 May to Friday, 08 June 2018.
As the guest Pastor, Dr TS Muligwe who gave a brief sermon that was incorporated with humour to encourage the students to work hard and fulfil their mandatory “job” by attaining good quality education. Dr Muligwe incorporated a number of verses to his sermon, whose general idea was to let the students know that they are always faced with the freedom of choice granted to them by God. He mentioned that every choice has the repercussions that can be either good or bad depending on the choice taken.
Dr Muligwe also shared his sentiments on the issue of patriarchy, encouraging the female students to work hard and be emancipated from old train of thought that subjected women to house chores. He emphasised his point by quoting verses from the book of Genesis 1:27-28, that show that blessings are granted to both men and women. He concluded by saying “education is enhanced and strengthened by the blessings of God”
Univen SRC President, Mr Gcina Mhlabane also gave a word of support and encouraged students to devote most of their time on their studies. He made the students aware of the challenges that they might come across during examination. Mr Mhlabane further told them that, regardless of such potential challenges, God will be there for them.
Head of Student Housing, Mr Lutando Charlie advised students to invite the Holy Spirit to come sit with them as they enter their exam rooms, and should use the previous week of graduation as a motivation to excel in their exams.
Speaking on behalf of staff members was Ms Maggie Hlungwani from the Campus Health Clinic. She gave the six attributes of a successful examination namely: diligence, persistence, taking initiative, facing challenges, learning from failures and living a fruitful life. Ms Hlungwani placed great emphasis on reaping what you sow, and one can only reap great results if they sowed in hard work and studying.
Ms Hlungwani further gave students health tips to use during exam time for students to avoid fatigue, or slumbering during an exam and even feeling sick. She advised students to rest as much as possible and to bath before sitting for a paper. “Eat breakfast as part of a health tip during exam time.”
Amidst the motivational talk, the worship team and Rofhiwa Manyaga gave soulful and jubilant Hymns. Mr Manena also gave the opening prayer and benediction. The closure of the event indeed left students ready for examination.
Univen students and staff during Exam Prayer Service
Issued by:
Department of Communications & Marketing
University of Venda
Tel: (015) 962 8525
Date: 23 May 2018
