The annual Rhodes graduation ceremonies are a treat to behold, as they represent the highlight of years of study for our students.
The annual Rhodes graduation ceremonies are a treat to behold, as they represent the highlight of years of study for our students.
Held during the April vacation each year, the five ceremonies (divided according to faculties) are splendid celebratory occasions. Staff proceed onto the Monument stage in full academic attire, followed by the graduands wearing their black academic gowns (usually on hire from Birch’s Outfitters in Grahamstown).
They are first ‘capped’ by bowing before the the University Chancellor Professor Jakes Gerwel, who taps them gently on the head and confers the degree, and then ‘hooded’ by the Registrar, Dr Stephen Fourie, who places their academic hood on their shoulders.
Following the tradition of juniores priores (the youngest and most junior first), the bachelor degrees are then followed by honours, masters and doctoral degrees. The highlight is the presentation of Honorary Doctorates to specially chosen distinguished citizens (both from South Africa and further afield).
The graduands and audience are treated to a range of interesting and impressive orations during the proceedings, culminating in the traditional and very moving rendition by the University choir of GaudeamusIgitur (Therefore we rejoice) and the national anthem.
The festive graduation weekend also includes various departmental receptions, a sumptuous garden party (with light jazz in the background) and a grand ball as a finale.
