Wits university celebrates academic brilliance, inspiring a culture of achievement and innovation.
The awards as a platform for networking, collaboration, and enhancing Wits’ reputation for academic excellence.
Fostering a culture of promoting shared values among students.
Recognition and rewarding students with exceptional academic performance.
On Wednesday May 14, the Student Representative Council (SRC) of the University of the Witwatersrand (Wits) hosted the first Academic Excellence Awards in the Senate Room to honour top achievers from all faculties, recognising their outstanding academic performance and dedication to excellence.
The event was attended by the Dean of Students Mr. Jerome September, who spoke about the importance of the event.
“This event aligns with Wits University’s mission to promote academic excellence and innovation, as outlined in its strategic framework”.
The Dean of Students committed to contributing to future editions, ensuring the event’s continuation.
The awards were designed as a legacy project, receiving enthusiastic support from key university leaders, including the Senior Deputy Vice-Chancellor Prof. Ruksana Osman.
By celebrating student achievements, the SRC aims to foster a culture of excellence and inspire others to strive for academic greatness.
The awards were also attended by the different house committee members, who commented on the SRC project.
“The initiatives taken by SRC have been highly supportive and the ‘Kubo ya thuto’ fund has been one of the most crucial projects that has significantly contributed to the academic success,” said Buhle Ndiniso, a David Webster house committee member.
A photo of SRC academic officer Jostino Mbiza congratulating the students on their academic excellence .Photo by: Nomfundo Zungu
The event honoured students who excelled academically, with the selection process based strictly on 20 students per faculty who achieved a minimum of 75%. The SRC hopes to expand the categories in future ceremonies to include special awards, such as most improved or community-engaged students.
One of the award winners, Laquita Bennett from the faculty of humanities, expressed her gratitude and joy.
“It is very nice to reap the fruits of my hard work. Sometimes you put effort into academics and never get the credit. This is the first event I have been exposed to so far, I’m so honored, and it feels very nice to be academically involved,” she said.
FEATURED IMAGE: A photo of dean of students Mr. Jerome September and Wits SRC. Photo by: Nomfundo Zungu
The streets of Braamfontein pulse with life, the noise of taxi horns, chatter, and construction that never seems to cease. But beneath the vibrant surface, my reality as a Wits Journalism student is marked by the quiet struggles of balancing academia and financial pressures.
I recall one particularly grueling night, juggling living expenses, and last-minute modelling gigs to make ends meet. The clock struck midnight, and I was still typing a potential story pitch on my laptop, fueled by coffee and sheer determination.
This is the unseen reality of many student journalists – the late nights, the early mornings, and the constant juggling act.In the newsroom, I am surrounded by classmates who inspire me with their passion. We come from diverse backgrounds, but our pursuit of knowledge and personal growth unites us.
As we work together to produce high-quality content for the Wits Vuvuzela, I see first-hand the importance of teamwork and collaboration.
According to a study by the Student Press Law Center, student journalists face unique challenges, including financial constraints, limited resources, and the pressure to balance academia and journalism. My experience echoes these findings – the financial strain is palpable, and the pressure to perform academically weighs heavily.
This is not only my personal experience but, Kamvelihle Mtwazi, a fellow student journalist also said that not having funding is affecting her studies, as she must sometimes do field reporting which requires transportation money and lunch.This sentiment echoes the struggles many of us face in pursuing our journalistic endeavors.But despite these challenges, we have found a way to thrive.
Likho Mbuka, a fellow student journalist, notes that discipline and time management are key to crafting news-worthy stories.I have seen this play out in our team’s weekly production cycle, where we work tirelessly to meet deadlines and tell stories that matter.
Rivaldo Jantjies, a Journalism Graduate and TV journalism Top Achiever, shares a similar experience. “When I first started, I was a fish out of water,” he says. “But my mentors took me under their wing, and I learned to take risks, push myself, and adapt fast.” His words resonate with me – the importance of mentorship and guidance cannot be overstated.
As I reflect on my own journey, I realize that our university experience should be about more than just survival – it should be about thriving.To succeed, journalists must be prepared to work long hours for low pay. It is a demanding profession that requires dedication and passion.
Despite these challenges, many of us are determined to make a difference through our stories. With the right mindset and support, we can navigate the industry’s obstacles and thrive. As a student journalist, I have seen firsthand the hard work and commitment needed to produce high-quality work.
South African citizens march for voluntary departure of undocumented migrants, sparking debate on immigration policies and government response
The South African citizens call for a 30-day ultimatum for illegal immigrants to exit the country
The government is yet to respond on the proposed memorandum
A group of South African citizens took to the streets on May 02,2025, marching from Pieter Roos Park in Parktown to the Gauteng Legislature in Marshalltown – demanding that government give undocumented migrants a 30-day ultimatum to exit South Africa, sparking a heated debate on immigration policies.
The peaceful protesters, organised by a group of concerned citizens, cited concerns over the impact of undocumented migration on the country’s resources, jobs, and infrastructure.
“We are not against migrants who come to our country legally and contribute to our society,” said Edwin Masina one of the march organizers.
“However, we cannot continue to bear the burden of undocumented migrants who strain our systems and take advantage of our generosity,” he added.
The photo of South African citizens marching down the Joburg street to the Gauteng legislature. Photo: Nomfundo Zungu
One of the citizens emphasized concerns on the job competition, crime and safety. “Besides the immigrants selling drugs and kidnapping people, we are also facing an issue of unemployment because illegal immigrants are taking our jobs, graduates are staying at home without jobs.”
The government has yet to respond officially to the call for a 30-day ultimatum. However, officials from the Department of Home Affairs have previously stated that the government is working to strengthen its immigration policies and crack down on undocumented migration.
Immigration experts say that the issue is complex and requires a multifaceted approach.
Dr Nokhutula Khuzwayo, an immigration expert said, “We need to address the root causes of migration, such as poverty and lack of opportunities in migrants’ home countries.
“We also need to ensure that our immigration policies are fair, humane, and effective.”
As the march concluded, participants were unable to submit the memorandum to the Gauteng Legislature speaker Ms Morakane Mosupyoe, as she sent a communication stating that she is on leave.
Government is expected to have a meeting with the march organisers on Tuesday May 07,2025.
FEATURED IMAGE: A picture of South African citizens marching to the Gauteng legislature to hand over the memorandum against illegal immigrants. Photo: Nomfundo Zungu
Paige Harvey, a Wits graduate on a mission to spark change, one crown at a time.
Harvey posing atop the Great Hall steps after her graduation. Photo: Supplied/Rendaldo Verde
Beyond the Miss Soweto crown, Paige Harvey’s quest is for purpose and impact
Beauty, brains and a desire to make a difference
The Miss Soweto winner has eyes set on the Miss SA 2025 crown
In a world where traditional paths are often expected, Paige Harvey stands out as someone who has seamlessly transitioned from the world of diplomacy to the glamour of beauty pageants.
As a Wits University international relations graduate, Miss Soweto 2023, and a contestant for Miss South Africa 2025, Harvey’s journey is more than just a career shift. It’s a testament to her passion, determination, and multifaceted talent.
Paige grew up in Eldorado Park, Soweto, where her love and passion for modelling started. “I have entered Miss SA 2025 to stand as a beacon of hope, pioneering positive change in the mindsets of the youth. As South Africa prepares to host a G20 summit, the world is turning its eyes to us, this is more than a political moment; it is time for us to showcase the strength, resilience, and brilliance of our people,” she said.
From a young age, Harvey was fascinated by how countries interact and how policy shapes lives. “Studying international relations at Wits gave me the academic ground to explore complex topics and sparked a deeper desire to be part of the solution,” said Harvey.
Pageantry became a platform where Harvey could merge beauty with purpose. “I realized that pageants could elevate voices and causes,” she explained.
Harvey doesn’t see her academic and pageant personas as separate entities. “Both require discipline, confidence, and authenticity,” she said. Her academic journey grounds her, while pageantry empowers her to express that foundation publicly.
Harvey has faced her fair share of challenges, from balancing self-doubt and public expectation to navigating scrutiny and criticism. But she’s learned to stay rooted in her purpose and protect her peace. “I remind myself that I’m not just doing this for applause, I’m doing it for impact,” she said.
Paige Harvey taking the Miss Soweto 2023 crown. Photo: Supplied
One of the most impactful moments for Harvey was when she spoke to a group of schoolgirls about self-worth and purpose during Miss Soweto 2023. “One of them later told me that hearing my story gave her courage to apply for university,” she recalls. “That moment reminded me why I do pageantry – it isn’t just about the crown, it’s about connection,” said Harvey.
Her advice to young women pursuing multiple passions is simple: “Don’t let society box you in. You are allowed to do many things – smart, stylish, strategic, soft. Own every facet of your identity and don’t be afraid to show up fully.”
As she looks to the future, Harvey Paige hopes to continue competing on international stages and using her platform to spotlight youth empowerment and African excellence. She envisions a career that merges diplomacy, media and humanitarianism.
FEATURED IMAGE: Paige Harvey’s Miss SA 2025 entry picture, Photo: Supplied/Rendaldo Yarde
The latest NRF funding has left many postgraduate students at Wits University facing financial hardship and deregistration due to funding shortfalls.
Postgraduate students who were expecting funding from the National Research Foundation (NRF) have been left in a lurch after the funder informed them there will be no funding this year.
The NRF which funds postgraduate students informed many students that despite meeting all the requirements, they could not be funded due to lack of funds.
The most affected are Honours students who only received communication on February 27, some having already enrolled and taken up expensive Wits residence. Students spoke about the hardships they now face.
“The NRF funding outcome has made me wonder about my academic future. The stress of financial uncertainty can be too much to handle and the fact that I have no support from home makes things worse,” said Zama Ncwane, a postgraduate student.
Another student, Mamazibuko Maseko lamented the high cost of accommodation. “The accommodation fees are exorbitant, and it’s difficult to afford on a limited budget,” she said. Academic life is now a struggle for many. “I struggle to concentrate in class due to constant fee statements showing I owe Wits, making me worry about potential deregistration,” said Mbalenhle Sauls.
Responding to the students’ grievances, the NRF designated authority at Wits, Mr. Ndhuvazi Kubayi, revealed that the funding process is more complex than many people realize.
“A total of 80% of funds are allocated to STEM (Science, technology, engineering and mathematics) students and just 20% to those in commerce, law, management (CLM) and humanities”, said Mr. Kubayi.
Applicants must achieve a minimum of 65% and submit all required documents. Humanities and CLM students face difficulties in securing alternative funding sources, while STEM students have more options available to them.
The NRF is expected to meet with the SRC and the Wits postgraduate committee to discuss possible solutions to the ongoing funding crisis.
Fee statement for a postgraduate who owe Wits due to not getting NRF funding. Photo :Nomfundo Zungu
FEATURED IMAGE: Fee statement for a postgraduate who owe Wits due to not getting NRF funding. Photo: Nomfundo Zungu
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