In a remarkable celebration of academic excellence and partnership, CHERTL’s Commerce Extended Studies Program (CESP), in collaboration with Investec, hosted a prestigious awards ceremony on September 4th. The event marked two significant milestones: the 15th anniversary of Investec's sponsorship and the  CESP students’ first semester achievements. Top-performing students were honored with generous cash awards, recognising their hard work and dedication. The ceremony also paid tribute to the exciting students and mentors who have been integral to the success of the Program over the years. This event was held at Settlers Monument to celebrate students at large.

Siyavuya Bandezi and Varshan Pillay served as the dynamic MCs for the night, setting an energetic tone for the evening. Professor Dave Sewry, the Dean of Commerce, was invited to the stage. He welcomed the guests. Sewry proudly highlighted the outstanding achievements of the Commerce Extended Studies students, emphasising their contribution to the university’s reputation. He praised their dedication and hard work, positively impacting the university's reputation. Addressing the first-year students, Prof. Sewry encouraged them to strive for excellence in their academic and university life. He motivated them with a powerful message of perseverance and ambition. In closing, Prof. Sewry left the audience with an inspiring message: "Wherever you are and whatever you do, stand tall and brag.” His words resonated with everyone in attendance, setting the tone for a future filled with pride and success.

The event was about celebrating students' academic success. Varshan Pillay shared his experience as a former CESP student. In his speech, he said, “Being in this program is a blessing, which many would not know because the Extended Studies program prepares you for a year to be able not to have much confusion and difficult time as a Commerce student, I have achieved so much under this program, received so many awards and I was also awarded as a top achiever in my first year, and now I’ll be graduating next year, this is to prove that everything is possible.” He closed off by encouraging students not to be pressured and to walk with the strength they have. “Investec’s Corporate Social Investment has partnered with Rhodes University Commerce Extended Studies to contribute to the development of leaders that will take their rightful position in the community or society; it is not good enough to do good, but we must strive to be good.” Said Mr. Setlogane Manchidi, the Head of CSI division at Investec, when he was invited to the stage as the keynote speaker.

The highlight of the evening arrived when Ms. Sisonke Mawonga, Commerce Extended Studies coordinator and lecturer, took the stage to present the much-anticipated cash awards. She congratulated the recipients, recognising their hard work and dedication and congratulating all the students for their achievements. Following the cash awards, Prof. Jo-Anne Vorster, HOD of CHERTL and Mr Setlogane Manchidi, presented the Mentorship Awards. These awards celebrated the outstanding contributions of mentors who have guided and supported their peers. Both presenters expressed gratitude to everyone who participated as mentors, acknowledging their impact on the program’s success. As the event ended, Ms. Olwethu Dlangamandla Gobingca, lecturer in the program, thanked the Dean of Commerce, Prof. Dave Sewry, for his ethical leadership. She also deeply appreciated Investec's ongoing support of the Commerce Extended Studies program, emphasising their partnership's significance in shaping many students' futures.