Standing on the cusp of a new chapter
The excitement is palpable as more than 3,000 graduands prepare to take the stage and receive their hard-earned degrees during the University of Fort Hare’s (UFH) 2025 Autumn Graduation.
This momentous occasion marks the culmination of years of dedication, perseverance, and academic achievement.
So far, the University has confirmed that 3,109 students will be capped. The week-long graduation ceremonies will take place from May 5 to 9 at the Alice campus’ Sports Complex.
Impressive statistics
Of the graduands, 1,992 (64%) are female, highligting the ongoing strides toward gender parity in education. This progress echoes the legacy of the University’s first female graduate, Gertrude Ntlabathi, who crossed the stage in 1928.
Aproximately, thirty percent of the qualifications will be awarded for postgraduate programmes, ranging from honours to doctoral degrees.
For undergraduate qualifications, 19-year-old Siyamanga Zondi will graduate with a Bachelor of Commerce as the youngest graduand this season. The most senior graduand is 66-year-old Miss Nombuso Madikane, who will be capped with a Bachelor of Theology.
For doctoral degrees, the youngest graduand is 28-year-old Mr Sijongesonke Peter, from the Chemistry department. He will be awarded a Doctor of Philosophy in Chemistry. The most senior doctoral degree graduand is Mr Gbadebo Oluwafemi Emehinola. At 71 years old, he will graduate with a Doctor of Philosophy in Social Science.
Highlights
Among the highlights of this graduation season are the honorary doctorates to be awarded to two distinguished individuals: Mr Mda Mda and Mr Omar Badsha. Mr Mda will be awarded the Doctor of Laws, honoris causa, while Mr Badsha will receive a Doctor of Philosophy, honoris causa.
Vice-Chancellor and Principal, Prof Sakhela Buhlungu, said the honorary doctorates to be conferred on these illustrious individuals reflect the University’s commitment to acknowledging and celebrating those who have made significant contributions to the betterment of society.
“Their diverse and impactful careers exemplify the university’s values of leadership, education, and social transformation. The UFH community looks forward to celebrating these extraordinary individuals, whose legacies will continue to inspire future generations.”
UFH Registrar, Mr Njabulo Zuma, has extended a warm invitation to all staff and graduating students to participate in the celebration and share this moment of pride and joy.