Vaal University of Technology Spring graduates called upon to continue learning
The Vaal University of Technology is proud of the 1 170 diplomas and doctorates conferred in various fields of study during the Spring Graduation ceremonies that took place from 5-8 September. This brings the total number for 2016 in all VUT campuses to 3 928. VUT has in the past ten years produced 35 781 highly skilled entrepreneurs and continues to do so.
VUT graduates, families and friends all gathered at the Desmond Tutu Hall to witness and celebrate the achievements of the students in all four VUT Faculties for the Spring 2016 graduations.
Guest speaker Steve Bolipombo, a VUT Alumni who graduated cum laude in Computer Science, and who is now working as an Executive Head of Internal Audit at Vodacom, said he was humbled and delighted to share a few words with the graduates. He congratulated each and every one of them and told them they are now in a position to contribute to the small number of people who have graduated in this country.
His advice to students was that they should never stop learning; that the journey continues as they wouldn't want to find themselves falling behind with so many changes in technology. He said they should read books and make themselves experts in their fields. They should be exemplary when in the world of work and become known as hard workers. "Be courageous, start companies, join academia and take risks," he said.
Vice-Chancellor and Principal, Professor Irene Moutlana, said to the graduates: "The future is calling you to explore. Celebrate your new vows today but remember: knowledge has to be constantly enriched. Equip yourselves with skills while waiting. Adopt the 'strategic serving mentality' which comprises three C's: concern, care and connectedness with society or community. Serve the country; there are so many things to do in street societies, churches and stokvels. A person's success depends on how he or she shares knowledge. Do not be discouraged for a tree is known by its fruits not roots. Keep knocking on doors and remember that the mind is the most terrible thing to waste, keep on learning."