A landmark moment was the conferral of UMP’s first Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) degree, awarded to Dr Khumbelo Mabadahanye for her work in Environmental Sciences.
In her welcoming address, UMP Vice-Chancellor Professor Thoko Mayekiso described the ceremony as both a celebration of academic achievement and an opportunity to reflect on the journey that led to this point – and the values that will shape the graduates’ futures.
“This ceremony is a significant celebration of our students’ academic achievements,” said Professor Mayekiso. “It is also a moment to reflect on the journey that brought us here and the values that will guide our graduates forward.”
UMP awarded diplomas and conferred degrees to 2 035 students during the 10th graduation ceremony.
Professor Mayekiso emphasised UMP’s vision of producing graduates who are resourceful, responsible, innovative, and ethically aware. She applauded the recipients of the Academic Excellence Awards and the Vice-Chancellor’s Scholarship, urging all graduates to embody the university’s core values: excellence, integrity, collaboration, diversity, relevance, adaptability, and inspiration.
She also acknowledged the contributions of parents, families, sponsors, and friends who supported the graduates throughout their studies. Concluding her address, she encouraged graduates to meet the future with courage and creativity.
“You are the generation called to bring about new ways of thinking,” said Professor Mayekiso. “Find your purpose, fuel your vision, and have the confidence to change the world.”
The 2025 graduation ceremony celebrated not only the achievements of UMP’s newest alumni but also the potential of a generation poised to shape the future.
Female graduates comprised 66.2% while male graduates made up 33.8%.
‘Let Your Voice Be Heard’ – Professor Davhana-Maselesele
Deputy Vice-Chancellor for Teaching and Learning, Professor Mashudu Davhana-Maselesele, reminded graduates that the occasion was not simply about receiving degrees, but about the personal stories of perseverance behind each qualification – stories of long nights, unwavering determination, and the support of those who believed in their potential.
“You are stepping into a world that needs curious minds, bold innovators, and ethical problem solvers. Let your voice be heard. Let your vision guide you. And wherever life takes you, remain grounded in the values of the University of Mpumalanga,” she said.
Professor Davhana-Maselesele acknowledged the challenges that lie ahead for graduates – setbacks, rejections, and unforeseen hurdles – but encouraged them to draw on their creativity and inner strength to overcome them.
She offered special congratulations to Dr Khumbelo Mabadahanye, UMP’s first doctoral graduate, urging her to continue publishing and contributing meaningfully to her field.
“You are a pioneer. Let your light continue to shine – beyond today,” she said. Closing her remarks, she welcomed graduates to remain connected to the university: “Be proud ambassadors of this institution. Show the world what UMP graduates are made of.”
A Decade of Growth and Achievement
As UMP marked 10 years of academic progress, University Chancellor Justice Mandisa Maya delivered an impassioned message to the Class of 2025.
Established in 2014, the University of Mpumalanga has grown rapidly and celebrated a key milestone with the awarding of its first doctoral degree.
“Ten years ago, we dared to dream of a university that would provide quality higher education to Mpumalanga and beyond. Today, we celebrate not only your achievements but also how far this university has come,” said Justice Maya.
Graduates hailed from South Africa, Zimbabwe, and the Kingdom of Eswatini.
She praised the graduates’ perseverance, saying: “It requires courage, dedication, and a willingness to grow. Today, you reap the rewards of that effort.”
Justice Maya called on graduates to use their education as a force for good.
“Use your education to challenge injustice, to speak for the voiceless, and to agitate for the common good. South Africa needs ethical, committed leaders who are unafraid to confront inequality, unemployment, and exclusion.
“As you walk out of these doors, carry with you not only your degree but a deep sense of purpose. South Africa and the world need you,” she concluded.
Graduation Highlights
- UMP conferred its first Doctoral Degree (PhD) to Dr Khumbelo Mabadahanye.
- 61 Master’s students graduated.
- 170 students graduated with cum laude honours.
- Female graduates comprised 66.2% of the cohort; male graduates made up 33.8%.
- 45 recipients of the Vice-Chancellor’s Scholarship graduated.
- 11 Academic Excellence Award recipients graduated.
- 60 different qualifications were awarded across all ceremonies, 10 of which were awarded for the first time.
The ceremony was attended by dignitaries including the Deputy Minister of Basic Education, Dr Reginah Mhaule, and the Mpumalanga MEC for Education, Ms Chathrine Dlamini.
Graduates hailed from South Africa, Zimbabwe, and the Kingdom of Eswatini. Congratulations to the Class of 2025. Your journey is just beginning!
Story by Cleopatra Makhaga. Pictures ©ChrisplPhoto.