Fri. Sep 20th, 2024

Vaal campus welcomes back in-person graduation ceremonies

By Lehlohonolo Nkhumishe 2 years ago

The return of physical graduation ceremonies, held at Kompas church in Vanderbijlpark, got many North-West University (NWU) Vaal campus graduates buzzing with excitement. 

Kompas church in Abraham Street, Vanderbijlpark, where NWU Vaal campus held its graduation ceremonies. PHOTO: Lehlohonolo Nkhumishe

For the past two years, owing to the Covid-19 pandemic, NWU graduation ceremonies had been streamed live on YouTube.

The beginning of this year’s graduation ceremonies were held to a higher standard than before as it was the first time in two years that graduates have been honoured in person.

Information that was added to the NWU Vaal graduation invitation details. INFOGRAPHIC: Lehlohonolo Nkhumishe

Leanne Khaiza (22), an NWU BA in public governance alumna, said, “this is the day I’ve been looking forward to. I can’t believe all of my restless nights have materialised into this wonderful moment with my family”. 

“Due to the breakout of the virus, I wasn’t sure if the graduation would even take place, but I’m glad everything worked out in the end,” Khaiza said. 

Cairo Botilo (22) (left), Caroline Mogotlwane (22) (centre), Hloni Nkhumishe (21) (centre), Amogelang Mokaba (22) (right), graduated with their BA in communication degrees on the 8th of June 2022. PHOTO: Lehlohonolo Nkhumishe 

Caroline Mogotlwane (22), NWU BA in communication alumna, said, “I was nervous as I approached the stage. I recall taking a big breath and telling myself that this is my moment, that I deserved it, and that I had worked hard for it. She continued that she needed to allow herself to enjoy the special moment as a reward to herself. 

“This is a moment that everyone should have. It was a very satisfying day to know that I had worked hard for this and deserved to soak it all in,” Mogotlwane said. 

Graduates were given two tickets for guests to ensure that Covid-19 regulations were followed. A separate booth was set up for attendees with children to enjoy the event as well. Graduates and guests were separated into two different sides of the room to maintain social distance. 

An inside look at the NWU Vaal campus graduations. VIDEO: Lehlohonolo Nkhumishe

Siyabonga Ngcobo (23), NWU BA in psychology alumna, said, “I was able to walk across the stage knowing that my family was in the audience with me.” He went on to say that he was glad Covid-19 didn’t take away his family’s chance to be in the same room as him as he took his victory walk.

The graduation ceremonies started on 1 June 2022 and ended on 13 June 2022, with two ceremonies hosted each day.

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