Sinomhlobo Ndlela’s journey to graduation was anything but straightforward. From being forced to take a gap year due to financial constraints to emerging as a respected leader, athlete, artist, and educator, her story reflects the essence of Rhodes University’s ethos: “Where leaders learn.”

A recent report from the Fourth Edition of the 2030 Reading Panel shows only 32% of teachers currently demonstrate high levels of mathematics proficiency. Coupled with recent reports showing South African learner maths proficiency being amongst the lowest in the world.

In a country battling a literacy crisis, Makhanda is witnessing an exceptional spike in literacy rates.

In what has been a remarkable run since the first installation last year, another Transient Array Radio Telescope (TART) instrument has been deployed in an African Square Kilometre Array (SKA) partner nation – this time, Botswana.

Some events tick boxes, and then some remind you why community matters and why we come together, celebrate, and keep going. The Postgraduate International Graduation Ball, held on the evening of Friday, 5 April 2025, was the latter.

For Tina Sisanda Bikitsha, graduating with a Master’s degree in Journalism and Media Studies from Rhodes University is not simply an academic achievement but a triumph of love and resilience. As a mother to a non-verbal 10-year-old child with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), Tina’s research journey was highly personal, filled with moments of both emotional anguish and hope.

On the 2nd of April 2025, sisters Dr Alyssa Shawntay Williams and Loryn Michelle Williams once again shared the Rhodes University graduation stage, sharing another defining milestone. This time, Alyssa hooded her younger sister while wearing the distinguished red gown of a doctoral graduate.

Ripfumelo Pascalia Chauke’s graduation from Rhodes University is more than a personal accomplishment, it is a symbol of hope for her community in Soweto and beyond. The first in her family to obtain a university degree, she has defied the odds, opposed expectations, and inspired many with her story.

Rhodes University’s Centre for Postgraduate Studies (CPGS) has secured £30 000 from the British Council to offer publication support for emerging researchers.

Physics Professor and Head of the Department of Physics and Electronics at Rhodes University Makaiko Chithambo has been elected a Fellow of the African Academy of Sciences (AAS), marking a major recognition of his contribution to physics on the continent.

After years of distinguished service, Justice Lex Mpati is retiring as the Chancellor of Rhodes University, leaving behind a legacy of integrity, transformation, and unwavering commitment to justice. Appointed in February 2013, he became the first former student of the University to hold the position. Throughout his tenure, Justice Mpati championed inclusivity and excellence, embodying the institution's values and inspiring future generations. His tenure has been marked by a dedication to academic excellence, social responsibility, and a deep belief in the power of education to change lives.

Rhodes University’s Autumn Graduation Week was not just a celebration of academic achievement but a tribute to the resilience, dedication, and success of its broader community – including students, staff, and families. Among those who crossed the stage were SRC members and colleagues whose perseverance was celebrated with great institutional pride. The week was filled with stories of triumph and inspiration.

Against a backdrop of social and economic inequality, Rhodes University's 2025 Autumn Graduation Week marked a celebration of resilience, grit, and achievement. A total of 2,062 graduates crossed the stage—each story a testament to perseverance in the face of adversity.

As Rhodes University celebrates its Autumn Graduation, Chancellor Justice Lex Mpati is bowing out from the role he has assumed for the past 12 years. Justice Mpati, the first former Rhodes University student to become Chancellor and second Black student to graduate with an LLB from the University, championed judicial integrity, education, and transformation. His tenure as Chancellor marks an era of profound impact.

Rhodes University welcomed its alumna, Minister of Basic Education Minister Siviwe Gwarube, on the 31st of March 2025 for a visit aimed at discussing key education initiatives and engaging with students. The event, which took place at the Big Lecture Theatre in the Faculty of Education, underscored the University’s commitment to strengthening collaboration with national education authorities.

In an intimate and profoundly symbolic ceremony, Rhodes University formally robed Dr Nontsikelelo (Ntsiki) Biko with the academic gown befitting her Honorary Doctorate of Laws (LLD) (honoris causa), conferred during the University’s virtual graduation in 2021. The robing, delayed due to the COVID-19 pandemic, occurred at the Steve Biko Centre in Ginsberg.

“Today I would like to salute you, Sisi Ntsiki, for being a woman that you have been to all of us. A woman of integrity. You lived an exemplary life and you became a role model for all of us. I know some of us will never do, in our lifetime, even half of what you have done for your people.” - Sibongile Qaba, 2021

In Psalm 118, verse 24, the psalmist reminds us that this is the day that the LORD has made and that we should rejoice and be glad in it.

I would like to thank Rhodes University for the honour it has bestowed upon me through the award of an Honorary Doctor of Laws. I was told that this is in recognition of my contribution as a dedicated community activist and for devoting my life to the upliftment of the poor and marginalised.

As the new academic year begins, students embark on their undergraduate and postgraduate studies, while early-career academics consider their next steps in research and professional development. To support them on this journey, Rhodes University hosted a two-day engagement event, led by Deputy Vice-Chancellor for Research, Innovation, and Strategic Partnerships, Dr. Kwezi Mzilikazi, alongside Honorary Professor Stephanie Burton and Dr. Mandy Hlengwa. The event provided a blend of strategic insights, practical guidance, and hands-on training to help participants strengthen their academic careers.