UCT celebrates latest PhD graduates

The first week of September at the University of Cape Town (UCT) was filled with exuberance as the institution awarded academic qualifications to students across seven ceremonies. The celebrations also included a dinner for PhD graduates.

It was a week of firsts for Vice-Chancellor Professor Mosa Moshabela, who officiated his first week of graduation ceremonies since taking up his post in August. At a celebratory dinner for PhD graduates on Tuesday, 3 September, UCT Chancellor Dr Precious Moloi-Motsepe and Professor Moshabela wished the latest group well on their next endeavours.

In total, 159 PhD qualifications were awarded, including an honorary doctorate to internationally acclaimed biostatistician and epidemiologist, Professor Debbie Bradshaw. In recognition of her service, she received a Doctor of Science (honoris causa) on 3 September. A total of 2 079 students, including the PhD graduates, were capped during ceremonies from Monday, 2 September, to Wednesday, 4 September.

Addressing the attendees, Dr Moloi-Motsepe called the event a “landmark” occasion on UCT’s academic calendar. “You all have good reason to be proud and we share this pride with you. What you have each achieved is significant; you have expanded your own knowledge and have contributed to global knowledge and research.

“Your work is a testament to the broader impact of continuous learning and education, where an educated society inspires trust built on credibility and informed insights. This in turn allows our industries to innovate responsibly and pursue sustainable development.”

Milestones

Moloi-Motsepe added: “Your peers appreciate how you have pushed boundaries of knowledge and opened new vistas. By advancing knowledge and skills, you help to cultivate a community where education doesn’t occur in isolation but drives meaningful progress and fosters a culture of integrity. You are living proof of UCT’s mission: to provide this continent with the best in research that makes a difference in people’s lives. Thank you for keeping Africa’s light shining bright.”

“What stands out for me, is that the work that you do benefits other people.”

Professor Moshabela urged PhD graduates to take their communities with them as they continue their upward trajectory. “I salute all the doctoral graduates. I am confident that you know your PhD is but one of your many significant milestones you are going to achieve in your career. Every success points the way to the next challenge. I wish for each of you a lifetime of scholarly adventure, whatever path you take.”

Proposing a toast on behalf of the graduates, he said: “Through you, we would like to see the knowledge base in Africa continue to grow for the benefit of our continent, nation and world. While there are many personal rewards in this life and career you are pursuing, what stands out for me is that the work that you do benefits other people. This is remarkable.

“You are going to need the support of your partners, families, networks and communities in order to carry on for the many decades to come so make sure you bring them along as you go on this journey; share and celebrate your milestones with them.”