This prestigious annual event celebrates individuals and groups for their outstanding achievements across various categories, reflecting the institution’s dedication to holistic student development.
Speaking at the awards ceremony, UMP Vice-Chancellor, Professor Thoko Mayekiso, highlighted the significance of acknowledging hard work and success.
The awards were presented across various categories.
“It is always a joy to attend the ceremony earmarked to celebrate and honour those who have excelled. These awards remind us that persistence and tenacity of purpose are always worthy of celebration,” she said.
Professor Mayekiso also underscored the transformative role of co-curricular activities in preparing students for their futures.
“At UMP, we are committed to offering our students a life-changing experience through high-quality curricula and co-curricular programmes. These activities complement classroom learning and enable students to realise their potential in all dimensions - cognitive, social, aesthetic, physical, and personal,” she said.
Reflecting on the broader impact of co-curricular excellence, she added: “Later on in life, when you seek employment, awards in co-curricular excellence make you stand out among your peers. You invariably become a pool of excellence, separate from the sea of mediocrity.”
The University recognised outstanding individuals and groups.
The Vice-Chancellor also commended recipients of the Vice-Chancellor’s Scholarship certificates and ENACTUS team members for their leadership and entrepreneurial achievements.
“By learning and applying skills such as mindfulness, resilience, interpersonal refinement, and innovative thinking, these students have positioned themselves to cope better with future challenges. You are an inspiration to others and have enhanced UMP’s brand reputation.”
The following awards were presented to groups and individuals:
Vice-Chancellor’s Excellence Awards for Leadership:
- Male Student Leader: Boikgantsho Magaseng
- Female Student Leader: Esihle Lukashe
Group Awards
- Residence of the Year: Emthonjeni – Siyabuswa Campus
- Society of the Year: Teachers of Transformation
- Arts and Culture Group of the Year: Mbombela Campus UMP Choir
- Sports Team/Club of the Year (Female): Siyabuswa Campus Female Volleyball Team
- Sports Team/Club of the Year (Male): Siyabuswa Campus Male Soccer Team
- Overall Sports Team/Club of the Year: Siyabuswa Campus Female Volleyball Team
The Vice-Chancellor, Professor Mayekiso, applauded the awardees for their dedication.
Individual Awards:
- SRC Member of the Year: Boikgantsho Magaseng
- House Committee Member of the Year: Randy Cossa
- Choir Member of the Year: Kulani Mashimbye
- Arts and Culture Performer of the Year: Kgadisho Mamolatji
- Student Society Administrator of the Year: Bongumusa Nkabinde
- Sportsman of the Year: Themba Mahlangu
- Sportswoman of the Year: Samkelisiwe Themba
- Living and Learning Achiever of the Year: Klaasina Jiyane
The recipient of the Female Student Leader under the Vice-Chancellor's Excellence Awards for Leadership: Female Student Leader, Esihle Lukashe said: "I'm deeply humbled. This recognition is not just a personal milestone but a testament to the power of embodying the seven UMP values: Excellence, Integrity, Diversity, Collaboration, Adaptability, Relevance, and Inspiration. These values have been my compass, driving me to lead with purpose and to uplift those around me."
In her closing remarks, Professor Mayekiso reaffirmed UMP’s commitment to excellence. “We have a decade of success behind us and will not be complacent. Disruption and agility are the order of the day.
Congratulations to all award recipients: "You have put UMP on the map and shown us all the value of playing the game fairly, enthusiastically, and with commitment.”
Story by Cleopatra Makhaga. Pictures by ChrislPhoto.