Diversity to the fore in varsity birthday events
AN energetic and vibrant display of transformation marked the Nelson Mandela Metropolitan University’s 10-year anniversary celebrations yesterday.
The Madibaz Day events saw people from various fields of study celebrating achievements over the past decade through a mardi gras-style concert and an exhibition.
Before the concert began, students and staff had enjoyed an exhibition held at the south campus indoor sports centre.
It highlighted what the institution has achieved over the past 10 years.
Marketing intern for the department of public relations and corporate communications honour student Viwe Ndayi, 21, said she believed the anniversary proved there was hope for the future.
“Ten years marks the beginning of adolescence for the institution.
“I hope to see more transformation, more academic achievement for students, more investment and stronger relationships grow,” she said.
After the exhibition, those attending made their way to the sports stadium where an entertaining and colourful home-grown concert was held.
NMMU’s international award-winning choir opened the programme before NMMU’s vice-chancel- lor, Professor Derrick Swartz, addressed an excited crowd of about 300 staff, students and alumni.
Swartz said although the university had done very well in the past 10 years, there was still a lot more that could be done.
“This day is a great opportunity to look back at the amazing development of the past 10 years . . . this is a great institution with great potential,” Swartz said.
Teaching and learning deputy vice-chancellor Professor Denise Zinn said the next 10 years would be exciting times, “where we can experiment and enjoy the successes of the university”.
Concert-goers also enjoyed performances by NMMU’s Performa Dance Group, a DJ session by members of the DJ Society, poetry by Linokuhle Mahleka, and the Madibaz Band.
Marketing and engagement officer for the school of accounting, Jolandri van der Walt, said she had seen many positive changes.
“I have noticed a lot less animosity between NMMU students.
“They celebrate and share their successes with each other, especially on social media platforms,” Van der Walt said.
Marketing management lecturer Andrew Marriott said the university was definitely moving towards and embracing the brand associated with it.
“To have Nelson Mandela’s name as part of the NMMU brand and the alignment to his values and virtues shows the progressive nature of NMMU.
“It is a diverse and unique university, all-encompassing – a truly allAfrican university,” he said.
According to Swartz, part of NMMU’s vision is “to be a dynamic African university, recognised for its leadership in generating cuttingedge knowledge for a sustainable future”.
Swartz said NMMU would be embarking on a number of initiatives over the next few years. These would include establishing maritime and marine sciences programmes, laying the foundations for a new medical school, investing in interactive, “smart campus” technologies, and building new residences.
“NMMU is destined to become one of the finest universities in South Africa and beyond. It continues to look to future planning and shaping today’s decision for tomorrow,” Swartz said.