The University of Pretoria’s (UP) incoming 2022 Student Representative Council (SRC) was recently inaugurated during an event that was held at UP’s Future Africa Institute and moderated by the Director of Student Affairs, Dr Matete Madiba.

“I am saluting all those who will be representing other students on top of having to still maintain their academic [studies],” UP Vice-Chancellor and Principal Professor Tawana Kupe said at the ceremony. “It is commendable and selfless. At UP, the SRC is a great training ground for leadership, as those who have walked this journey are making great strides out there. I am confident that all of you are going to have illustrious careers in leadership, which is something that is not easy and requires dedication.”

Members of the University of Pretoria’s newly inaugurated Student Representative Council.

Molatelo Tlowana, current SRC Chief Justice of the Constitutional Tribunal, called each newly elected SRC member to the podium to be inaugurated and to sign the SRC Code of Conduct.

“It is an honour to be inaugurated today, and thank you to the current SRC for indirectly and directly shaping the leadership of the incoming 2022 SRC,” incoming SRC President Thato Mashila said. “You have laid a solid foundation for us, and we will continue to do the good work in 2022. A special thank you to the students who voted for us – we promise to serve you well and with pride.”

Current SRC President Lerato Ndlovu commented on the responsibility that an SRC president assumes when they take the oath. “You will need to uphold that oath throughout the year, even you do not feel like doing it,” she said. “You will be serving a large community; do not expect it to be easy. Be intentional and diligent. Do not forget to be the voice for the marginalised group. To President-elect Thato Mashila, it has been an honour and a privilege to mentor you and work with you. I wish you all the best.”