Stellenbosch University (SU) this year hosted its March graduation as open-air ceremonies as the centre where it is usually held was undergoing renovations in preparation for the Netball World Cup later this year. This is according to Martin Viljoen, spokesperson for SU.
“Staging the ceremonies here was more costly than hosting it in the Coetzenburg Centre,” said Viljoen. “Offering students that once in a lifetime opportunity to cross the stage to receive their degrees, made it worth the effort, though.”
Stellenbosch University (SU) hosted its first ever open-air graduation at the Maties Athletics Stadium, according to Martin Viljoen, spokesperson for SU. On account of positive feedback, hosting the graduation ceremonies at the stadium again is something to be considered, said Viljoen. PHOTO: Jodi-Mari Adams
This switch was made because the venue where the graduations are usually held, the Coetzenburg Centre, was undergoing renovations in preparation to host the Netball World Cup later this year, stated Viljoen.
Over 3 000 students received their qualifications during the March ceremonies, bringing the total number of qualifications awarded for the 2022 academic year to 8 642 students, according to a statement released by Viljoen to the staff and students at SU.
The venue was approved by the registrar’s office and supported by the rectorate, stated Viljoen. The athletics stadium had sufficient coverage for students, spectators, and the procession, he stated.
Coetzenburg Centre, the previous venue for Stellenbosch University’s (SU) graduation ceremonies, is under construction to prepare for the Netball World Cup later in 2023, said Martin Viljoen, spokesperson for SU. PHOTO: Jodi-Mari Adams
Welcomed venue changes
“This year’s graduation was a really good experience,” said Jermaine Isaacs, an HIV Management graduate. “I prefer the athletics stadium because it’s outdoors and provides a beautiful setting and background… I think it’s actually the perfect place to host an event like that.”
The March ceremonies had a modern feel in comparison to previous years, said Amber Haywood, a BCom master’s student. “We were lucky because we had good weather, and I preferred [this venue] over the Coetzenburg Centre,”
“I thought it was a very unique approach! Usually when you think of a graduation, you think of a stuffy auditorium,” said Madelein van der Merwe, a parent of one of this year’s graduates.
The academic procession making its way to Stellenbosch University’s first open-air stage during the March graduation week. “I thought it was a very unique approach! Usually when you think of a graduation, you think of a stuffy auditorium,” said Madelein van der Merwe, a parent of one of this year’s graduates. PHOTO: Jodi-Mari Adams
A smoother graduation
The March ceremony was thoroughly planned and ran efficiently, according to Haywood. This made it feel shorter than previous graduation ceremonies, she stated.
“The ceremony wasn’t too long, nor too short,” said Isaacs.
“Based on positive feedback, hosting the ceremonies here is something to be considered for the future,” said Viljoen. “Although dealing with the elements does put the ceremonies at risk.”