But first, coffee...

The Unisa winter graduations ended with a bang. To afford students an unforgettable graduation experience, Unisa, in partnership with McDonald’s, created a memorable day by offering free premium coffee for students and their families. Students attending the graduation ceremony on 25 June 2019 were met and greeted with smiles and offered free McCafé premium coffee on their arrival at the graduation venue, an experience which many experienced as unexpected but thoughtful and pleasant.

Unisa graduates queue for coffee while catching up at the venue

BA Communications graduate Katekani Chauke said she was stunned. ‘Wow, what an experience, I was not expecting this at all,’ she said. ‘My family and I travelled all the way from Malamulele in Limpopo by bus. Rushing so as not to miss the ceremony, we were greeted by friendly people with a smile and offee to counter the cold. This was an experience I know my parents will always talk about. It made my day special.’

Unisa and McDonalds wanted to ensure that graduates and their families experience an enjoyable and memorable graduation. Not only students got to enjoy a cuppa – Professor Mandla Makhanya, Unisa Principal and Vice-Chancellor, and other members of management also joined in the festive spirit and enjoyed a cup of coffee during a short mingling session before graduations could begin.

Prof. Mandla Makhanya (Principal and VC) and Prof. Thenjiwe Meyiwa (Vice-Principal: Research, Postgraduate Studies, Innovation and Commercialisation) enjoy a cup of coffee and Mc Donald’s hospitality

Unisa and McDonald’s will continue creating enjoyable experiences for students. The next drive will be during the second semester registrations, where registering students will get an opportunity to enjoy McDonald’s goodies.

* By Tshimangadzo Mphaphuli, Senior Journalist, Department of Institutional Advancement