The North-West University’s (NWU’s) Vanderbijlpark Campus 2023 winter graduations ended with a special congratulatory ceremony for PhD graduates, hosted by Prof Linda du Plessis, deputy vice-chancellor for planning and Vanderbijlpark Campus operations.

This event followed the 18 PhD graduates’ graduation ceremony where NWU principal and vice-chancellor Prof Bismark Tyobeka conferred their degrees upon them at the new Tsebonokeng Hall.

Applauding the doctoral graduates for their perseverance and determination, Prof Du Plessis urged them not to allow the country's problems to limit their dreams.

“A doctoral qualification is at the highest level of the National Qualification Framework (NQF). At NQF Level 10, a doctoral candidate is expected to demonstrate the ability to engage in independent research, innovation, and critical analysis and synthesis of new knowledge within their field of specialisation. A PhD degree signifies advanced expertise and high-level skills in a particular discipline, and individuals at this level are considered experts in their field. They are often capable of assuming leadership roles, making policy recommendations, and shaping the future direction of their specialisation," she added.

Prof Du Plessis also urged them to make a difference.

"If you are not prepared to make a difference, then who will? Set high standards for yourself, and never accept mediocrity. Don't ever shrink away from this duty, particularly because, as a postgraduate, you represent privilege – the majority of South Africans are not as privileged to have a university education. Use this qualification you receive today as an instrument to make a constructive difference," she added.

The following graduates received their doctoral degrees:

Neil Bertrand Barnard

Thapelo Diego Chaacha

Jacobus Johannes De Jongh

Lehlohonolo Garekwe

Tafadzwa Maraswa

Anneke Mare Molman

Afees Oluwashina Noah

Natasha Robbetze

Phefo Labius Mokgatlhe

Volschenk Nicolene

Erasmus Miridiza

Basson Marina

Maiwasha Barbra

Moletsane Annie Mojaesi

Nicola-Mari Schutte

Bridget Zanele Tlhakanelo

Bonelwa Sidumo

Walter Sandirai Madimutsa

Prof Linda du Plessis, deputy vice-chancellor for planning and Vanderbijlpark Campus operations (in the middle, wearing a floral jacket), with some of the PhD graduates and NWU academics.