On 09 May 2023, the University of Pretoria's Faculty of Health Sciences hosted the Merit Awards ceremony to honour and celebrate academic excellence for undergraduate students. 

The event was an exceptional opportunity for the faculty to recognise students from the School of Medicine, the School of Dentistry School of Health Care Sciences, who averaged 80% and higher across the various disciplines. Fifty-six students received special prizes for their outstanding academic, while three-hundred and forty-three students were acknowledged through a Merit Certificate by the School Chairs. The Vice-Chancellaor and Principal, Prof Tawana Kupe connected virtually, where the event was live-streamed for proud friends and families to share in the excitement. 

In his welcoming address, the Dean of the Faculty of Health Sciences, Prof Tiaan de Jager, described the event as a celebration of students' academic excellence resulting from hard work, perseverance, and commitment. "Your choice to make a commitment towards your studies and perseverance in overcoming obstacles has enabled you to realize your true academic potential," he added. 

The Deputy Dean of Teaching and Learning echoed the same sentiment, "Success is often defined as the achievement of one's goals. However, it is more than that. Success is the culmination of hard work, dedication, and commitment to excellence, resulting from a strong will, perseverance, and unwavering belief in oneself". 

Prof Priya Soma-Pillay, the Chair of the School of Medicine, lauded the students' hard work, dedication, and commitment to excellence. "You should be proud of yourselves for your outstanding academic performance is a testament to your passion for medicine and your willingness to go above and beyond in pursuing your goals". 

"The success we are celebrating tonight is a testament to the extraordinary efforts of our students, who have shown immense courage, resilience, and determination to excel in their respective fields. We celebrate success because it is a remarkable achievement that deserves recognition, and we acknowledge the countless hours of studying, the sleepless nights, and the sacrifices made to reach this point".

Prof Londiwe Shangese, Chair of the School of Dentistry, said the yearly ceremony showcases the caliber of the students being celebrated, deserving of recognition for their academic excellence. "The school of dentistry prides itself in giving the best training in both undergraduate programmes, acknowledging that it is never easy to meet the demands". 

In her congratulatory speech titled "Living life with a purpose," Dr. Mable Kekana, Chairperson of the School of Healthcare Sciences, said excellence symbolized living with a purpose. She urged the students to keep the momentum and make the university proud.

Prof de Jager thanked the faculty Exco, the Chairs of Schools, the lecturers, and all staff who have made it possible for the university to deliver quality education that assures UPWay. He also acknowledged the family members, friends, and sponsors who provide much-needed support to students every year.

The awards ceremony may be viewed below or on the Faculty of Health Sciences YouTube channel.