The University of the Western Cape (UWC) recently hosted its Long Service Awards, celebrating the dedicated staff who have spent decades tending to the institution's growth. Like devoted gardeners, these employees have nurtured the seeds of knowledge and shaped the fertile soil of learning where generations of students have thrived.

Honourees were celebrated for their dedication in five-year milestones, spanning from 10 to an extraordinary 40 years of service. While the evening unfolded against a backdrop of glittering décor and elegantly dressed guests, its true essence lay in the heartfelt camaraderie as colleagues from across departments warmly applauded one another’s achievements.

Among the recipients was the outgoing Rector and Vice-Chancellor, Prof Tyrone Pretorius, attending his final Long Service Awards ceremony. Prof Pretorius was also awarded a ten-year award, marking a decade of leadership and dedication to UWC.

A standout moment came when Dawn Faroe, a cornerstone of the Faculty of Science, was celebrated for an extraordinary 40 years of service. She started working at UWC at the age of 24, back when Botany and Zoology were standalone departments. She has seen the two departments merge into the Biodiversity and Conservation Biology Department, where she currently works as a chief officer in academic support.

“I never envisioned staying at the University this long, although there were occasions when I considered exploring other opportunities, I always ended up staying on,” said Faroe, who, over the years, took on several roles, from teaching a life science module to coordinating a tutorial programme for first-year students.

Prof Pretorius kept the mood light-hearted as he delivered his speech, emphasising the importance of recognising the dedication and hard work of the staff. He noted that the university's success is built on the foundation of its committed employees, who have helped shape UWC’s ongoing inspirational story.

Executive Director of the Human Resources Department, Meko Magida, paid tribute to the outgoing Rector and Vice-Chancellor, praising him for his exceptional leadership and his profound impact on the university.

He encouraged staff to recognise opportunities to make a difference, much like Prof Pretorius had done. He acknowledged the collective efforts of the university staff in shaping the future of countless students, underscoring the importance of their service and dedication.

The Long Service Awards celebrates individual achievements but it also fosters a sense of community and shared purpose among the attendees.