Nelson Mandela Metropolitan University celebrated its tenth year today by showcasing all that the university’s various departments, schools, faculties and support services have achieved in the past 10 years.
The expo was followed by a concert starring the university’s own top talent. The entertainment was provided by:
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The international award-winning NMMU choir
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Staff members Frans du Toit and Robert Pearce
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Two Tone and members of the NMMU Big Band who performed cover version of well-known songs
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Dancing by Nicky-Ann Rayepen and dancers – neo-classical and hip hop funk fusion
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Poetry by Linokuhle Mahleka (Kush)
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The Madibaz Band
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The NMMU DJ Society, featuring Nomfundo Ndlovu and others
Business and Economic Science lecturer Frans du Toit sang “As time goes by” and head of Library Services Robert Pearce performed a medley from Bob Marley’s music that had the audience singing and dancing. Robert says it was a huge honour to be approached to make a contribution to the 10-year celebrations.
Ulagh Williams from the Two Tone Band, together with her husband, Gareth, are NMMU alumni.
“We are proud alumni and the artists in the band are all current NMMU students. It is a blend of the old and the new,” she said.
After The Creed – consisting of alumni Marvin Draai, Virgill Matrass, staff member Andrew Kock and Alfred Felkers – led the audience in the national anthem, Prof Swartz addressed the university community.
Prof Swartz thanked all staff for their commitment to make a success of the ‘’well-run, prosperous’’ university. He mentioned that in the following five years NMMU will add two more campuses to the existing six - that of a medical school and a maritime and marine campus.
“The future is uncertain. However, your glass is half-full when you think of all the knowledge that you have accumulated. You can walk the road with courage, confidence and pride when you are confronted with difficulties and face it knowing that you have acquired much,” he told an appreciative audience who sat on the field in front of the performers.
He also urged staff and students to draw on the NMMU values: excellence, integrity, respect for diversity, respect for the natural environment, taking responsibility and ubuntu.
Deputy Vice-Chancellor: Teaching and Learning Prof Denise Zinn also proposed a toast on the past ten years and to the coming decade.
And then the selfies with the vice-chancellor began …
Photos of the events of the day