Your graduation signifies so much more than the completion of a degree. It represents the dreams of many – including those who have walked this journey with you, those who are present today and those who have cheered you on elsewhere. It represents hope for a new generation.

These were the words of University of Johannesburg’s (UJ) Vice-Chancellor and Principal designate Professor Lethlokwa Mpedi to the first graduating students of 2023.

The autumn graduation series, comprising 46 ceremonies, is taking place from 27 February 2023 to 19 April 2023.

There will be 10 445 students graduating. A total of 4 396 Bachelor’s degrees and 3 084 undergraduate diplomas will be conferred, as well as 1 748 Honours degrees and 780 postgraduate diplomas, 374 Master’s degrees, and 63 Doctoral degrees. Two honorary doctorates will also be conferred.

Prof Mpedi expressed to the graduands, ahead of their anticipated walk across the stage, that their achievement, in the context of South Africa, carries an almost impossible weight to comprehend.

“Many of you, like me, are first generation graduates. You represent the promise of the democratic project but also serve as a reminder of where we have failed. It should not be the case that graduation ceremonies are a privilege, but this is sadly our reality.”

Prof Mpedi added: “It is a difficult but inspiring chapter that you have completed. Amid the cheers, the ululations and the outpour of joy, I urge you to remember that you are among the lucky few in our nation who have been afforded this opportunity.”

He spoke on how the pandemic redefined the education experience for the students and through the immense challenges it presented, they responded with tenacity and resilience.

“It is this very spirit that I am certain will tinge your future.”

The UJ graduations are taking place at the Kingsway Campus in Auckland Park.