By Ngubenyathi Mtshazi, Bachelor of Social Sciences student
Rhodes University’s Vice-Chancellor, Dr Sizwe Mabizela hosted various staff members and family to celebrate long service and Arbour Day on 4 September.
The celebration, held behind Helen Joseph residence, not only highlighted the importance of planting and preserving indigenous trees but also celebrated the 22 retirees about to leave the University.
Arbor Day gives people a way to contribute to the achievement of a green, dignified and healthy environment. As such, it was only fitting for this day to coincide with the celebration of the retirees for their loyalty and lasting service to the University community.
In a heartfelt speech, Dr Mabizela touched on the transition of the retirees as they now embark on a journey of new possibilities. “Our greatest strength as an institution is the quality of the staff,” he said.
“One of the greatest privileges of a Vice-Chancellor is that he receives all of the accolades about the University and is commended for being a great leader. Deep down in my heart, however, I know that this institution is what it is not because of a Vice-Chancellor but because of every one of you,” Dr Mabizela thanked retiring staff members.
Manager of HR Operations at Rhodes University, Herman Saayman explained that a tree represents a symbol of hope and life, which he compared to the role that the staff members have played in their long service to the University community.
The retirees who had a tree planted in their honour, were:
- Mrs Lynette Bodill
- Prof Jonathan Lancaster
- Mr Nzame Tleki
- Mr Malusi Mzangwa
- Mr Lulamile Marangxa
- Mrs Auria Soyeye
- Ms Eleanor Anderton
- Mr Jeffrey Qubuda
- Mr Zwelakhe Ralo
- Mrs Nomvula Miya
- Mrs Buyiswa Manyati
- Mrs Lydia Botha
- Ms Nozithembiso Kolweni
- Mr Danisile Booi
- Mrs Sylvia Armstrong
- Mr Thobile Nontyi
- Prof Marius Vermaak
- Prof Alan Hodgson
- Mrs Fiona Still-Drewett
- Prof Daniel Wylie
- Mr Patrick January
- Ms Liziwe Fosi