First held in 2016, the annual awards support the University’s commitment to holistic student development. Participation in co-curricular activities provides opportunities for students to develop skills, take on leadership roles and contribute to the university community.
Welcoming guests at the event, Dr Bernard Sebake highlighted the role of co-curricular activities in promoting social cohesion, transformation and holistic learning. He noted that student participation creates opportunities for personal development, collaboration and the acquisition of skills needed to navigate an evolving society.
He also reaffirmed the University’s commitment to placing students at the centre of its work and developing graduates who can make a meaningful contribution to their fields and communities.
The keynote address was delivered by Dr Koketjo Tsebe, Senior Lecturer at the University of South Africa (UNISA), who congratulated the students on their achievements and highlighted the value of active participation in university life.
Dr Tsebe explained that involvement in student leadership structures, sports, peer counselling, mentoring and other co-curricular activities helps students develop essential skills, including teamwork, time management, meeting deadlines and balancing multiple responsibilities. These skills are valuable in preparing students for the workplace and future leadership roles.
She encouraged award recipients to remain humble and connected to their peers, emphasising that recognition also brings responsibility. She noted that the awards celebrate not only individual achievements but also the contributions students make to their university community.
Through these awards, UMP continues to recognise achievements beyond academic performance and encourage students to develop leadership, collaboration and social responsibility.
Dr Tsebe also addressed student well-being, highlighting the importance of mental health awareness following World Mental Health Day, observed on 10 October. She encouraged students to prioritise rest and self-care and to find joy in their personal and academic lives as they navigate the demands of university.
The awards recognised students in several categories, including The Vice-Chancellor’s Award for Excellence in Leadership, which was presented to two students in recognition of their leadership:
- Female recipient: Bianca Msiza
- Male recipient: Siyabonga Mthethwa
Group Award Recipients
- Arts and Culture Group of the Year: Mbombela Drama
- Residence of the Year: Mashemong
- Society of the Year: Green Campus Initiative
- Sports Team of the Year (women): Mbombela Netball
- Sports Team of the Year (men): Siyabuswa Volleyball
- Overall Sports Team of the Year: Siyabuswa Tennis
Individual Award Recipients
- Arts and Culture Performer of the Year: Molatelo Mamabolo
- Choir Member of the Year: Mandiso Dlamini
- House Committee of the Year: Lindelani Maseko
- Living and Learning Achiever of the Year: Amukelani Ngobeni
- SRC Member of the Year: Nhlanhla Maluleka
- Sportswoman of the Year: Neliswa Mathabela
- Sportsman of the Year: Mbuyelo Rikhotso
The evening concluded with the presentation of awards and certificates to the recipients in recognition of their dedication and contributions to campus life.
Through the Co-Curricular Excellence Awards, UMP continues to recognise achievements beyond academic performance and encourage students to develop leadership, collaboration and social responsibility.
Story by Cleopatra Makhaga. Pictures by JB Creative Cinema. Copyright © UMP.