The University of Johannesburg (UJ) recently celebrated the commitment and contributions of its staff at the 2024 Long Service Awards. The event honoured 131 employees who have served the institution for 20 years or more, highlighting their pivotal roles in UJ’s growth and success.
Organised by the Human Capital Management (HCM) division, the awards ceremony was a glamorous affair. Staff members, joined by their loved ones, were recognised for their unwavering dedication.
HCM Director and event MC, Tokoza Kwinana, opened the evening by reflecting on the significance of the awards:
“A long service award isn’t merely a clocking of years spent at an institution. It represents employees’ role in moulding an organisation and shaping its story,” she said, quoting Vice-Chancellor and Principal, Professor Letlhokwa Mpedi.
This year’s recipients included employees who have been with the University for 20, 25, 30, 35, and 40 years, as well as two members of the Executive Leadership Group (ELG). Kwinana received a 15-year service award, while Chief Financial Officer Nolwazi Mamorare was recognised for 10 years of service.
In his keynote address, Prof Mpedi paid tribute to the honourees, linking their dedication to UJ’s transformation into a world-class institution:
“Some of you joined before the merger and have witnessed UJ’s transition from its early days. Others joined later but have been no less instrumental. Your contributions form the foundation upon which we continue to grow and achieve our goals.”
The highlight of the evening was a special tribute to 61-year-old Albert Dala, who has dedicated 40 years to UJ. Joining the then Rand Afrikaans University (RAU) in 1984, Dala currently works in the Cleaning, General Work & Waste Management Division at the Auckland Park Kingsway Campus. Reflecting on his journey, Dala expressed gratitude for the opportunities his role provided:
“This job has allowed me to care for my family and build homes in Soweto and Thohoyandou. UJ also educated my three children, with my youngest still studying here. I’m proud to have contributed to the University’s success.”
Dala’s son, Lucky, a second-year logistics student at UJ, praised his father’s example of loyalty and discipline, which he hopes to emulate in his own career.
The event concluded with remarks from UJ’s Chief Operating Officer, Dr Mpoti Ralephata, who thanked the staff for their contributions:
“You are the wind beneath the University’s wings. Your dedication and hard work will benefit generations to come.”
The 2024 Long Service Awards demonstrated UJ’s deep appreciation for its employees, celebrating their crucial role in shaping its ongoing journey of excellence.
