News & Media
Unisa Eastern Cape celebrates historic 150th milestone in style
The University of South Africa celebrated its sesquicentennial birthday on 26 June 2023. This major milestone was celebrated by celebratory activities in all the regions to mark Unisa’s 150th anniversary. In the Eastern Cape Region, colleagues from the Gqeberha and Mthatha Regional Centres travelled to East London to be part of the regional celebrations. Internal and external stakeholders gathered at the East London Golf Club, where they were treated to a fan park experience, with a jazz band that was playing to welcome everyone on their arrival.
Unisa staff members enjoying the festivities
The main proceedings, which were held at the Muckleneuk Campus in Pretoria, were presented virtually to all the regions. At this event, Unisa’s academic excellence was highlighted, with various accounts of how far the university has come and how it has stood the test of time.
Once the activities at the main campus concluded, the regional activities commenced, with the Regional Financial Operations Manager, Dr Themba Mzangwa, delivering the message of support on the occasion of Unisa celebrating the 150th year of its founding. In his message, he noted how Unisa has a footprint in eight provinces in South Africa, and how employees should be proud of this milestone.
He further highlighted how this prestigious event was about celebrating how Unisa is a one of a kind, leading comprehensive open distance and e-learning university. The Regional Student Representative Council Chairperson and the East London Alumni Convenor also shared their messages of support, whereafter a praise singer took to the stage. In his praise poem, he described Unisa’s iconic history and reminded everyone of how far Unisa has come and where it is going.
From left: EC RSRC Secretary, EC RSRC Chairperson and East London Alumni Convenor
The event concluded with a pre-recorded video that showcased Unisa’s achievements over the 150 years of its existence, and a message from the Eastern Cape Regional Director, Motale Nkgoang. In his congratulatory message, he stated how the university continues to make a much-needed impact in shaping the futures of its students, many of whom have to deal with challenging social conditions. He also noted that the university prides itself in the role that it is playing towards bridging this gap, by making education accessible for all and empowering the youth. Nkgoang further observed that this milestone occasion is a reminder that Unisa is still a beacon of hope to many, and that it will always remain the university of choice for Eastern Cape students.
#Unisa150
* By Ayanda Mdunge, Communication and Marketing Intern, Unisa Eastern Cape Region
Publish date: 2023/09/21
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