UP celebrates 250 000 alumni

5 April 2016

The Autumn graduation ceremonies of the University of Pretoria (UP) started on 30 March and will run for the next four weeks. It will be a memorable occasion for graduates who receive their degrees and certificates after the successful completion of their studies.

This year's graduation ceremonies will be particularly special as they mark an important milestone, namely the achievement of 250 000 graduate alumni registered on the University's database.

This year, a total of 11 328 degrees, diplomas and certificates will be conferred during the ceremonies, which will take place at the Rembrandt Hall on the LC de Villiers Sports Grounds in Hatfield.

Among the 10 796 degrees to be conferred, there are 188 doctorates, 1 430 master's degrees and 2 988 honours degrees.

An honorary doctorate will be conferred upon German-born theologian Dr Theo Sundermeier.

'I wish to congratulate every graduate on this very special occasion,' said Prof Cheryl de la Rey, Vice-Chancellor and Principal of the University. 'UP has been the University of choice for many of the country's top achievers at the end of Grade 12, and as our reputation continues to grow, a qualification from this University remains highly sought after.'

Among the recipients of post-graduate qualifications are two Tukkies who were clearly blessed not only with brains, but with good looks, too. Ms Tayla Skye Robinson, who was recently crowned second princess in the Miss South Africa contest, will be receiving her honours degree in Marketing Management and the current Mr South Africa, Armand du Plessis, will receive his LLB degree.

The Faculty of Law has even more reason to celebrate as 52 of their LLB graduates completed their degrees cum laude.

A mother and her son will also be graduating on the same day: Mrs Juanita Haug will receive the degree BAdmin (Public Administration) on the same day that her son, Mr Ricky Haug, will receive his BAdmin (Public Management).

- Author Anna-Retha Bouwer