“Go forth and make a difference in the world”, are the words that reverberated across the graduation arena at the conclusion of an emotion-filled event that characterized Africa University’s 30th congregation of the conferment of degrees on June 8.
Your support of the Africa University Fund apportionment supports the general operating expenses of Africa University including faculty and staff salaries and vital infrastructure.
The profound words from Bishop Dr. Mande Muyombo, the Africa University Board Chair, were a stark reminder to jolt the Class of 2024 to action. Indeed, Africa and the world are in need of young bright minds to provide solutions to the myriad challenges we face today.
This year’s graduation ceremony’s guest of honor and keynote speaker, former Mozambican President, His Excellency Joaquim Chissano, was unequivocal on what lay ahead for the graduands.
In the same spirit of collaboration, the AU Vice Chancellor Rev. Professor Peter Mageto expressed his gratitude to government, partners and the private sector, including Unicef, USAID, Mastercard Foundation, Econet, Stanbic, Ecobank and First Mutual, among others, for their valuable support to the institution.
Professor dr. Amon Murwira, the Minister of Higher and Tertiary Education, Innovation Science and Technology Development emphasized the role of education in the development of nations, particularly the need to look at the quality of knowledge currently being imparted to students, as Africa makes a deliberate effort to create transformational leaders.
Paying courtesy to the heritage-based education 5.0, the minister encouraged the graduating class to reflect and think deeply on the impact of their education and to use what they have learned to bring transformational leaders that the continent so desires.
Along with the pomp and fanfare seasoned by the intermittent performances of the five-star Africa University choir, came an ‘Ebenezer’ moment, one that showed how God’s grace prevails in times of adversity. Despite being involved in a harrowing bus accident that threatened to shatter their dreams while on their way to campus, Nyasha Musimwa (Bachelor of Social Work) and Nyasha Mukanganwi (Bachelor of Psychology) defied all odds to participate in their graduation ceremony.
Nyasha Mukanganwi is capped by Chancellor Bishop Gaspar Joao Domingos in an emotional moment.
Strapped to IVs and surrounded by medical staff, these determined students showcased extraordinary courage and spirit. The graduation arena was filled with palpable emotion as the live video feed streamed their smiling faces, each one a testament to their unyielding determination. Families, guests, and classmates were moved to tears, applauding not just academic achievements, but the sheer willpower, perseverance and God’s Grace that brought these young graduates to this poignant moment.
Nyasha Musimwa is congratulated by VC Rev. Prof. Mageto and Registrar Dr. Pedzisayi Mangezvo
The event turned into a powerful symbol of hope and triumph over adversity, etching unforgettable memories in the hearts of everyone present.
Story by Tawanda Chiwara, Managing Editor- Africa University Office of Advancement and Public Affairs
One of seven apportioned giving opportunities of The United Methodist Church, the Africa University Fund transforms Africa by educating and empowering students from across the continent through Africa University, the first fully accredited, United Methodist-related educational institution on the continent. The Africa University Fund supports the general operating expenses of Africa University including faculty and staff salaries and vital infrastructure. Please encourage your leaders and congregations to support the Africa University Fund at 100 percent.
