A new start in life for students at University of Pretoria
The University of Pretoria welcomed its 10 000 first-year students during its 2020 Welcome Day event at its Hillcrest Campus on Saturday.
Among them was Greta Kurpershoek, from Mpumalanga, and the top matriculant in the country in last year’s exams. Others were Thabiso Xaba, who obtained 8 As and a 91% average from Sibusisiwe Comprehensive Technical High School at Umbumnulu in KwaZulu-Natal, and Crystal Olckers, the top matriculant in Gauteng.
Vice-chancellor and principal Professor Tawana Kupe told parents the decision to pick the university was one they would not regret.
“UP is one of the top five universities in South Africa, according to the 2019-2020 rankings by the Centre for World University Rankings.
“It is a big decision to choose a university. I want you to know you’ve made the right choice with a high quality institution,” he said.
SRC president David Kabwa gave the first-year students a warm welcome and gave an eloquent speech. He urged students to do their best and not be held back by fear.
“We have a variety of platforms available through our Student Culture, Student Sport and Reach Out and Give committees. Student life at the University of Pretoria is rich. Let us prioritise our academics but also remember to live a balanced life,” he said.
Parent Devi Govendor said she came from KwaZulu-Natal to see her son settle in. She was very proud of him and realised why he had chosen the university. “He always was an independent boy and we trust he will take care of himself. He did very well with his matric results; it can only get better from here if he continues to do well,” she said.
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