The aim of the function was to touch base with alumni who commenced their academic programme at Mamelodi Campus. The graduates were admitted to either the BSc or BCom Extended Curriculum Programme. Once successful, they were transferred into the mainstream programme of their choice.   

Speaking at the event, Dean of the Mamelodi Campus Professor Nthabiseng Ogude said it was heart-warming to see students willing to give back to the Campus, community and surroundings.

“Alumni are key to the sustainability of the new strategic direction of the Campus. We are dependent on as many people getting involved in Mamelodi Collaborative, which has five niche areas that address the pressing challenges of South African townships. As a university, we have a chance to make an impact on our communities through civic engagement and using the academic capital and other resources of the University.”

“In 2020, Mamelodi Campus will launch the Pre-University Academy (PUA) activities,” added Griffiths Makgareetsa, administrator of the Mamelodi Alumni Club. “PUA will be a  programme that assists school learners in and around the Mamelodi community to improve their performance at schools so that they are able to meet UP’s admission requirements, as well as those of other tertiary institutions, particularly in the Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics fields of study.”   

“At first I was shocked to learn that I was accepted into the extended programme,” said Bruce Matlala, BSc (Hons) Genetics. “But I chose to look beyond that and think of where I want to end up. The programme gave me perspective that there are different opportunities out there. It gave me the right foundation.

“Coming from an ill-resourced school in a village, it was a bit difficult adapting to the university environment, but I had a vision and a goal,” Matlala added. “I also learned that success was not just for me but for the next person as well. Now wherever I go, I flourish. I am grateful to have started at Mamelodi Campus.”

Prof Ogude emphasised that the Campus will host similar events regularly. She also encouraged other alumni to participate.