The University of the Western Cape (UWC) held a heartfelt celebration at the UWC Stadium of UWC4Life on 30 November 2024 – an initiative that brings together retired and current staff members. This vibrant community pays tribute to the legacy of the University and continues to inspire a shared vision for its future.

Executive Director for Human Resources, Mr Meko Magida, who is an alumnus of UWC, expressed deep gratitude to the UWC community, saying, “Your sacrifices and dedication ensure that UWC remains an institution we can all be proud of. You have laid the foundation for a legacy that inspires us all.”

Reflecting on the importance of passing down knowledge, he envisioned pairing retired staff with new employees to nurture UWC’s culture of excellence.

Ms Beulain Matthews also paid tribute to former Rector and Vice-Chancellor, the late Professor Brian O’Connell, and other leaders who shaped lives through their vision and compassion. 

Rector and Vice-Chancellor Professor Tyrone Pretorius delivered the keynote address and highlighted UWC’s strides in academia and infrastructure. Consistently ranked among the top universities globally and on the African continent, he said the University continues to lead with innovations like its state-of-the-art education precinct and AR/VR facilities at the UWC Innovation Hub in Voortrekker Road, Parow. This community contributed to what UWC has become.

Prof Pretorius also acknowledged the contributions of stalwarts like former Deputy Registrar, Mr Norton Gelderbloem, Mr Vincent Morta and Mr Lionel Daniels, emphasising the collective impact of the UWC4Life community.

“This institution is more than its buildings or paychecks. It’s a place that gets into your blood,” he said, urging members of UWC4Life to stay connected and give back to their communities.

Mr. Abraham Oliver, Director of the Centre for Entrepreneurship and Innovation, highlighted the group’s potential to support mentorship and community entrepreneurship. “Silver entrepreneurs” — experienced professionals who combine expertise with enterprise — could create sustainable solutions and inspire a new generation of leaders, he said.

Mr Oliver encouraged members to take action, emphasising the transformative power of mentorship in building a resilient university ecosystem.

Speaker after speaker paid tribute to the remarkable people in the room and those who had passed on who contributed to UWC’s legacy. That pool of knowledge now needed to translate into action in terms of inspiring individuals and communities, they remarked.

As a call to action, members of UWC4Life were encouraged to bring along previously loved clothing for the Christ Steytler Industries Clothing Collection Drive, and packs of sanitary towels for women students and cleaners.

Throughout the event, the theme of gratitude and commitment resonated. Ms. Madge du Preez summed up the spirit of UWC4Life: “Gratitude turns what we have into enough. Let’s embrace this as we continue to contribute to our UWC family.”

Dr. Marie Minnaar McDonald also called for renewed efforts to preserve and rejuvenate the institutions established during their tenure, ensuring they continue to thrive for future generations. “Long live the spirit of fighting for justice and care in literacy and higher education,” she declared.

UWC4Life stands as a testament to the enduring bond between the University and its community. With its focus on mentorship, collaboration and legacy-building, the initiative reflects UWC’s mission to empower and uplift. Here’s to a future shaped by the values and dedication of those who call UWC their lifelong home.