The informal celebration of the inauguration of Stellenbosch University’s (SU) new Rector and Vice-Chancellor, Prof Deresh Ramjugernath, started on a festive note with a lively procession, led by the VGK Cloetesville Brigade, through town. 

The threat of spring rain did little to dampen spirits as friends, family, academic peers in their formal regalia, students and well-wishers, many waving Matie-maroon flags, walked in step with the man who moments earlier had shared his vision of SU becoming Africa’s leading research-intensive university in service of society. 

Although the heavens opened soon after guests arrived at Coetzenburg Stadium, this could not deter the festive audience. There was a full lineup of music and dance to match the jubilance of the occasion. Two youth groups, Jamestown Sounds Choir and Dance for All, joined to perform When You Believe by Mariah Carey and Whitney Houston. They also enthralled with a Miriam Makeba medley. Later, a double act of SU Acapella – a collaboration between Huis ten Bosch and Aurora, and from Dagbreek men’s residence – delighted guests with their lively renditions. 

In her welcome, SU’s Deputy Vice-Chancellor: Research, Innovation and Postgraduate Studies, Prof Sibusiso Moyo, called the rain a “blessing” on the day. “This celebration is about all of us,” she added, linking it to the Rector’s commitment to staff, students and alumni in his earlier address.

Stellenbosch Executive Mayor Jeremy Fasser described Ramjugernath’s inauguration as a “significant and symbolic moment in the life of this great institution, and indeed, in the life of our town”. He praised the town-and-gown partnership, noting that “when we work together, we not only solve challenges but also create opportunities to transform lives”.

A few words from Dr Rudi Kimmie, a close friend of Ramjugernath, added a personal touch to the programme. ​Roceshia Februarie​, 2025 Student Representative Council Chairperson, referred to Ramjugernath as a “deeply human” and accessible leader who “meets us where we are”, when engaging on student-related issues. “Now, we get to say that we see you too. Thank you for showing up, even before you became our Rector and Vice-Chancellor.”

Council Deputy Chair Nadine Moosa presented Ramjugernath with a framed puzzle, assembled by guests before the inauguration, featuring images of the University, town, research, student life and even the Rector’s beloved family dog, Pal. “This is a collective gesture from all of us, celebrating your leadership and the exciting journey ahead. It is a gift that embodies the spirit of ’Shaping Tomorrow Together’, which reminds us that your vision is not yours alone, but one we all share and build together.” 

She added that the imagery included the number 13 – coincidentally Ramjugernath’s favourite number – as a “tribute to your place in our history and your belief in the power of transformation”. 

Looking relaxed, with the formalities concluded, Ramjugernath shared that the procession to the Coetzenburg Stadium reminded him of the much-anticipated Dream Walk, which marks the start of each academic year. He said he too planned to follow the example of the students who pin their dreams onto the trees lining Victoria Street, by adding a note on his plans for SU. Reiterating his vision of SU being an institution committed to excellence and that has impact in service of society, Ramjugernath said: “We want SU to change the world”. 

The festivities concluded with music from the Maties Jazz Society, a collective of current and former jazz students from the SU Music Department. They were joined by special guest, South African jazz legend Leslie Kleinsmith. 

Late in the afternoon, as guests continued to mingle and a sliver of sun broke through the grey clouds, SU’s new Rector and Vice-Chancellor departed in deep conversation with his wife, Prathieka, who, he had noted earlier, “keeps me humble, keeps me grounded and thankful for the blessings in my life”.