By Lindokuhle Mnqayi

 

On 21 November 2022, Rhodes University said goodbye to its retirees at a special tree planting celebration event hosted on the Barratt Theatre Complex’s lawns.

“It is appropriate for Rhodes University to honour you today. Working with you all was an honour, and we will always cherish you,” said Human Resources Manager of Learning & Development, Mr Schalk van der Merwe. "You have been outstanding in the functioning of the institution.”

The Vice-Chancellor of Rhodes University, Professor Sizwe Mabizela, was among the attendees. He spoke briefly before inviting Ms Nasiphi Tafane from the Human Resources Division to read retiree citations.

Prof Mabizela called on Professor Peter Clayton, outgoing Deputy Vice-Chancellor of Research and Innovation, to do the honours of unveiling the Natal Mahogany tree’s plaque, which would serve as a symbol of honour for the 2022 retirees. Prof Clayton is this year’s longest-serving retiree with 40 years of service at Rhodes University.

 

The retirees for 2022 are:

Mrs LM Cartwright, 35 years’ service

Prof. PG Clayton, 40 years’ service

Prof. WN Ellery, 14 years’ service

Mr JP Gillam, 29 years’ service

Ms N Harmans, 22 years’ service

Mr DR Harris, 17 years’ service

Prof. R Hughes, 37 years’ service

Ms M Japp, 29 years’ service

Mr M Kewuti, 19 years’ service

Miss DV Kila, 38 years’ service

Mrs NS Maqanda, 27 years’ service

Dr S Marais, 17 years’ service

Mr GB Mitochi, 22 years’ service

Mr MD Mthwa, 21 years’ service

Ms NM Mzongwana, 21 years’ service

Mr P Ngxitho, 35 years’ service

Mr MA Olivier, 20 years’ service

Mrs D Philipson, 25 years’ service

Mr JA Pieterse, 27 years’ service

Prof. J Praeg, 20 years’ service

Prof. LE Quinn, 18 years’ service

Dr CC Remsing, 24 years’ service

Prof. M Schafer, 25 years’ service

Prof. SR Simango, 19 years’ service

Mrs LE Sparrow, 16 years’ service

Prof. I Szyszkowski, 31 years’ service

Mr JL Trollip, 14 years’ service

Mrs NJ Vambe-Yapi, 32 years’ service

Mrs ASM Wagenaar, 20 years’ service

Miss NG Wakashe, 24 years’ service

Mr EC Wessels, 26 years’ service

Mr FX Williamson, 30 years’ service

Mrs J Yasini, 21 years’ service