​In its second graduation ceremony for the week, the Faculty of Economic and Management Sciences, which is the largest faculty at Stellenbosch University (SU), conferred a final number of degrees on Friday (23 March 2018), bringing its total graduates for the 2017 academic year to 3 232. An honorary degree was also awarded to Prof Mervyn King. During the week's proceedings, altogether 13 honorary degrees were bestowed on esteemed thought leaders as part of commemorating SU's Centenary.

In his welcoming address, Prof Wim de Villiers, SU's Rector and Vice-Chancellor, said that in commemorating its Centenary, SU is celebrating “great achievements and ground-breaking discoveries the past 100 years".

“We acknowledge everyone who has helped mould this institution. At the same time, the University acknowledges its contribution to the injustices of the past and remains committed to redress and development."

De Villiers added: “Economic and Management Sciences has been very successful in boosting access to higher education. For the past decade, it has participated in the Thuthuka project, which aims to produce more chartered accountants from previously disadvantaged groups. And in the past year, 40% of the Faculty's income was used to help cover students' tuition fees."

“It is not only about the numbers of students we accommodate, but also the quality of learning and teaching we provide. For instance, a number of MBAs will be awarded today, and I am pleased to point out that the University of Stellenbosch Business School was the first business school at an African university to achieve all three of the major international accreditations in this field," De Villiers said.

“We also know that good governance is absolutely essential in both the private and public sectors. In this regard, SU's School of Public Leadership, which is part of the Faculty of Economic and Management Sciences, prepares graduates – many of whom work in local government – to tackle governance challenges. It also provides specialist anti-corruption education and training through a dedicated research chair and centre."

Turning to the honorary doctorate recipients, De Villiers said they not only exemplified the graduate attributes to be instilled in students, but also the qualities that SU needed to take with it into the future as it entered its second century as a leading university.

Shortly after receiving his honorary doctorate, Prof King told graduates: “Thank you for the honour bestowed on me. It's been a long walk to sustainable development. As professional advisors for your future companies, you will have a professional duty. You will be caretakers of this planet and have the moral duty towards those who come after us to try and leave behind a sustainable planet. You have an important role to play. You spent years at this great university. Do not forget your fellow graduates, as your alumni colleagues will be important to you for the rest of your life."

To read the Rector's speech, click here.

To read more on the honorary degree recipients, click here.