“HONORARY DOCTORATES REPRESENT LIVES ANCHORED IN INTEGRITY, COURAGE AND SUSTAINED EXCELLENCE. AS OUR GRADUATES ENTER NEW CHAPTERS OF PROFESSIONAL AND CIVIC LIFE, THEY DO SO IN THE PRESENCE OF INDIVIDUALS WHO DEMONSTRATE WHAT CAN BE ACHIEVED WHEN EDUCATION IS MATCHED WITH PURPOSE,” SAID PROFESSOR LETLHOKWA MPEDI, VICE-CHANCELLOR AND PRINCIPAL OF UJ. “This graduation season is not merely a celebration of qualifications conferred. It is a powerful affirmation of knowledge in action and of the role universities play in shaping nations and advancing our continent.” View the conferral here: https://youtu.be/GJkE6FYHJjY
African provincial rugby. In 1993, Mr Pienaar made his test debut for the Springboks and was appointed captain from the outset. He remained captain for all 29 test matches he played, an unprecedented achievement. He was the captain of the Springboks during the historic 1995 Rugby World Cup victory against New Zealand. Following his retirement from international rugby in 1996, Mr Pienaar has led rugby clubs, has worked as a decorated sportscaster and has ventured into the world of business through the establishment of sports businesses, one of which is the hugely successful Varsity Cup. His vision of sports and academic excellence in changing the lives of young people is recognised with every season. Youth development is also something he’s been passionate about and has realised this through the Make A Difference Leadership Foundation, which gives tomorrow’s leaders access to higher education through a scholarship programme. In closing, Francois Pienaar used his remarks to share important life lessons, particularly with the graduates and other young people in the audience, highlighting the importance of hard work, critical thinking, and approaching life with a positive attitude. These, he told the graduates are essential tools for building a successful and meaningful life. This year, the University’s 2026 graduation series marks the institution’s 21st anniversary. Over 13 000 graduates will cross the stage, joined by global and national leaders recognised for their transformative contributions to society.
Scan the QR Code to watch the conferral
Mr Francois Pienaar, UJ Mascot Hoepie and Vice-Chancellor and Principal, Prof Letlhokwa Mpedi
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