On August 15th, 2024, the University of Johannesburg (UJ) hosted its annual Alumni Celebratory Dinner, an event that was a night of reflection, recognition, and reconnection. The occasion, hosted by the University’s Vice-Chancellor and Principal, Prof Letlhokwa Goerge Mpedi and the Alumni Relations Office paid tribute to the remarkable achievements of UJ’s alumni, who have continued to make an indelible impact on both local and global stages.
The exclusive event recognized alumni who have been nominated for some of the most esteemed awards, including the M&G 200 Young South Africans award, recipients of the Power of Woman Mail & Guardian award, and finalists of the SAICA 35.
Present at the soiree was also the family of Dorcas ‘Didi’ Lekganyane, scientist and UJ alumni that was tragically slain a few months ago. Lekganyane who’d made important contributions in the field of traditional medicine, was honoured as part of the M&G 200 Young South Africans 2024 cohort. A moment of silence was observed in her honour.
“Amid our joy and excitement, it is important for us to acknowledge those who are no longer with us. Particularly, Dorcas “Didi” Lekganyane. Her influence and legacy continue to inspire us. As a 2024 200 Young South Africans finalist, Dorcas made a lasting impact, and her spirit remains with us. May her spirit continue to guide us in our endeavours as we move forward,“ the VC said in the emotionally charged moment.
Doing the evening’s official toast, Registrar Professor Bettine van Vuuren reiterated the institution’s pride at what they have achieved: “You are the reason we are gathered here today, to celebrate you. Take the opportunity to toast yourselves tonight for all your achievements. In 2005, no one believed that this new University would in 20 years become a world class University. And we are that, because of you, what you have accomplished and contributed to the University.”
Professor Mpedi used his keynote address to reflect on the journey of the last 20 years, and how alumni fit into this picture of an institution that has become the embodiment of growth, breaking barriers and an embodiment of South Africa’s transformation story.
As an alumnus of the University himself, Prof Mpedi share anecdotes of his journey, and praised the alumni for how they continue to fly the University’s flag high.
“It is such an honour to be addressing you this evening. It is a special evening. As I was reflecting on this event earlier on today, I thought about what we say at University graduation ceremonies. I went back to some of the speeches. They are wishes that the Chancellor functionaries at these ceremonies have for our graduates. And the fact that we are here today celebrating you, means you have not disappointed. This is only beginning for all of you, of a life-long journey of success. You are going to make us proud, and we will make YOU proud too,” he said.
Prof Mpedi shared with the guests some of UJ’s great successes, including the institution’s performance in various international rankings that tell the story of an emerging giant in African academia.
“UJ has emerged as a leader in the Fourth Industrial Revolution (4IR), a distinction evident in its impressive global rankings and research achievements. Recently, UJ was ranked number 1 in South Africa and on the African continent among universities younger than 50 years, according to the Times Higher Education (THE) Young University Rankings. Additionally, UJ has been recognised for its contributions to the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), further cementing its reputation as a university that is not only forward-thinking but also deeply committed to societal impact,” he said.
He concluded by encouraging the alumni to nurture and maintain their relationship with the University, and to also consider giving back in order to empower future UJ students and alumni.
“By maintaining a strong network with you, we tap into a pool of potential collaborators, mentors, and advocates who can significantly contribute to our vision,” he said. “Alumni are not only ambassadors of UJ’s legacy but also crucial partners in driving the university’s strategic objectives, including enhancing research, funding scholarships, and creating a more conducive environment for teaching, learning, and innovation.”
Senior Manager: Faculty Coordination and Alumni Nell Ledwaba reiterated these sentiments and highlighted that the importance of having this ceremony annually is about inspiring the next generation of leaders at UJ.
“This celebration is not just about honouring individual accomplishments but also about inspiring the next generation of leaders to strive for excellence. It’s a testament to the impact our alumni continue to have in their respective fields,” said Ledwaba.
