UWC’s historic virtual graduation

An address from acting rector and vice-chancellor Professor Vivienne Lawack was also part of the ceremony.

The University of the Western Cape, held its first virtual graduation ceremony at 9.30am on Tuesday, March 31, while the city, along with the rest of the country, is still under lockdown.

The ceremony was aired on the university’s website and video footage of some of the university’s landmarks.

UWC registrar Dr Nita Lawton-Misra said most of the graduates had completed their qualifications in 2019. “Having patiently waited for their graduation to take place in March/April, as initially planned, makes it more difficult to accept the possibility of a further postponement. Having considered the risks, as well as the current unique situation we find ourselves in, UWC has decided to graduate its students virtually and send them their certificates via email. Once we return to normal working conditions, the university will arrange for students to receive their paper certificates and transcripts, as well as invite graduates to attend a formal ceremony.”

Master of Commerce graduate Emmanuel Slinger said having a virtual graduation ceremony is welcomed in times of uncertainty.

“Even though we are facing a pandemic, I am glad that through the use of technology, we are still able to graduate and move forward.”

The virtual ceremony included a pre-taped video of conferring the degrees. The names of the graduates will be posted in accordance with their original ceremony dates.