The 2026 graduation reflected a period of academic achievement across undergraduate and postgraduate qualifications, as the University recognised students completing their studies across a range of disciplines.
This year, a special ceremony was held for graduates whose graduation opportunities were delayed due to COVID-19 lockdown restrictions, allowing them to formally celebrate their academic milestone alongside their families, peers, and the University community.
Speaking during the special ceremony, UMP Vice-Chancellor and Principal, Professor Thenjiwe Meyiwa, described the occasion as deeply meaningful, saying it reflected resilience, perseverance, and determination.
“This special graduation is a powerful reminder that while journeys may be delayed, they are never denied. Today, we honour resilience, perseverance, and the unwavering spirit of our graduates,” she said.
Professor Meyiwa added that the ceremony represented more than the conferring of qualifications, but also the restoration of a long-awaited milestone moment.
“We are proud to welcome you back to this stage, where your hard work is finally recognised in the presence of your families, peers, and the University community,” said the Vice-Chancellor and Principal.
Deputy Vice-Chancellor: Teaching and Learning, Professor Davhana-Maselesele said graduates had successfully navigated disrupted academic calendars and completed their studies despite significant challenges.
First cohort of law graduates and postgraduate milestones
The 11th graduation marked several institutional milestones, including the conferment of the University’s first cohort of Bachelor of Laws (LLB) graduates, 11 Doctoral (PhD) degrees and the awarding of the only Master’s in Tourism and Hospitality Management.
Deputy Vice-Chancellor: Postgraduate Studies, Engagement and Planning, Professor Moses Mbewe said a qualification represents more than academic achievement, but also perseverance, commitment, and fulfilled aspirations.
He encouraged graduates to lead with purpose and humility, reminding them that success should also be measured by the impact made in the lives of others.
Among the milestone graduates was Mr Bonginkosi Hlatshwayo, who became the first and only graduate to receive a Master of Tourism and Hospitality Management qualification.
His dissertation, titled Assessing the Marketing Efforts of Nature Reserves and their Contribution to Sustainable Development Goals: A Case Study of Blyde River Canyon Nature Reserve, resulted in two research publications, with one article published and another manuscript accepted for publication.
Mr Hlatshwayo obtained all his qualifications from UMP. He is currently pursuing a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Tourism and Hospitality Management at the University of Mpumalanga.
The youngest doctoral graduate is 27-year-old Dr Christeldah Mkhonto, whose research titled Milkwood (Mimusops zeyheri Sond.) in South Africa: Diversity, Traditional Knowledge, and Sustainable Utilisation was presented at the Combined Congress and ranked among the Top 5 Best Doctoral presentations. She obtained all her qualifications at UMP.
Another doctoral graduate, Dr Mzwake Nkosi, serves as Chief of Staff (Director) in the Mpumalanga Department of Agriculture, Rural Development, Land and Environmental Affairs MEC office. He graduated with a Doctoral Degree in Biology and also completed all his qualifications at UMP.
31-year-old UMP Associate Lecturer Nicholus Mnyambo is the first ATSP Fellow to graduate with a PhD. His study, titled Development and use of nanoparticles from Lantana camara and Tabernaemontana elegans in the management of Meloidogyne incognita, contributes to research on food security, environmental sustainability, and sustainable agricultural practices.
Mr Mnyambo also presented at the 46th Habitable Planet Workshop hosted by the Alliance for Collaboration in Climate and Earth Systems Science (ACCESS), a South African consortium focused on climate and Earth systems research.
Professor Meyiwa reflected on the significance of the ceremonies taking place during Africa Month, saying graduates form part of a generation contributing to the continent’s future through education, leadership, and innovation.
“This is your time, your moment,” she said, encouraging graduates to celebrate the achievement after years of commitment and sacrifice.
Recognising achievement and resilience
This year, the University awarded and conferred 72 qualifications, 11 of which were introduced for the first time.
Deputy Vice-Chancellor: Research, Innovation and Internationalisation, Professor Aldo Stroebel, described graduates as future leaders and contributors to Africa’s development.
“As the University marks its largest cohort yet, this moment stands as a reflection of growth, excellence, and transformation,” he said.
Graduates were encouraged to continue applying the values that guided them throughout their studies. Professor Davhana-Maselesele highlighted passion, persistence, perseverance, and patience as key attributes for personal and professional growth.
In 2026, the University awarded 218 Cum Laude qualifications. Female graduates accounted for 64.64% of the graduating class, while male graduates accounted for 35.36%. Graduates represented South Africa, Zimbabwe, the Kingdom of Eswatini, and the Democratic Republic of Congo.
The ceremonies reflected UMP’s continued academic growth, expanding postgraduate footprint, and commitment to developing graduates equipped to contribute meaningfully within their communities, professions, and broader society.
Guests who attended the 11th graduation included the Mpumalanga Premier, Mr Mandla Ndlovu.
Story by Cleopatra Makhaga. Pictures by JB Creative Cinema. Copyright © UMP.