The University of Pretoria (UP) recently held its annual Vice-Chancellor’s Distinguished Merit Award (VCDMA) Recognition of Achievers Event, in celebration of the outstanding academic achievements of VCDMA recipients.

The event, held at Loft at Nine in Menlo Park, brought together current students, alumni, and staff to honour the dedication and excellence of top-performing students. The keynote address was delivered by UP Vice-Chancellor and Principal Professor Francis Petersen, who praised the students for their perseverance, leadership and contribution to the UP community.

“Tonight is about celebrating success together and honouring the incredible spirit that unites us as a community,” Prof Petersen said. “You are part of a unique group of highly talented individuals – academically gifted, socially conscious and caring. Our country and the world urgently need leaders like you.”

Prof Petersen highlighted the achievements of VCDMA students both academically and in leadership. “Fifteen percent of you are involved in student leadership roles, and 19% hold leadership positions in residences. This shows that you are committed not only to your studies but also to making a difference in your communities.” 

He also praised the VCDMA Alumni Chapter (VAC), established in 2022, for building lasting connections and fostering a sense of belonging among past recipients. “Unity is our strength,” he said. “We are proud of how VCDMA students continue to excel and inspire others through their leadership and compassion.”

During the ceremony, 56 students were recognised for their exceptional grade point averages (GPA), with the top achievers in each study year receiving awards. Special congratulations were extended to:

Doné Potgieter, recipient of the Overall Top Current GPA Achiever award.  “I never would have imagined receiving this award. I am truly honoured. I owe it all to our wonderful God, who has been by my side every step of this journey,” Potgieter said.

Emily Hawkes, recipient of the Overall Top Cumulative GPA Achiever award, said, “It means a lot to me to have my achievements recognised, but I do not think that success is just about the marks. You need to make time to enjoy the journey so that you can look back knowing that you had fun too. So go to Lentedag  (Spring Day), everyone!” Hawkes added.

Another highlight of the evening was the presentation of blazers to members of the newly established VCDMA Unitatem (VU), a student executive committee formed from within the VCDMA recipient group. The VU was created to strengthen social bonds and foster a sense of unity among VCDMA recipients across different faculties and year groups, in line with its motto, “Strong Minds, Stronger Bonds.”

Prof Petersen also expressed his gratitude to the team behind the VCDMA programme. “I would like to thank the Director of the Department of Enrolment and Student Administration, Dr Abbey Mathekga, the Deputy Director of Enrolment and Student Administration, Mr Wallace Isaacs, and the DESA team for coordinating this programme so well and for supporting our students every step of the way,” he said.

He reminded students to take care of their well-being. “Being part of a group of top achievers can be stressful. Please take care of yourselves, seek support when you need it, and remember that the Department of Enrolment and Student Administration team and the Student Counselling Unit are here for you.”

The evening concluded with warm congratulations to all awardees. “We are immensely proud of your achievements. Continue to lead with compassion, courage and excellence,” Prof Petersen said.