Communications leader completed a PhD that interrogated how journalism shapes mental health narratives in South Africa. De Vries turned personal loss and lived experience into a study grounded in care, empathy and responsibility. Her research calls for newsroom cultures that treat mental health reporting as an act of public service, not spectacle.

Renowned radiologist Emeritus Professor Jan Lotz obtained his PhD in Applied Ethics from Stellenbosch University at the age of 78. The murder of his only daughter, Inge, in 2005 profoundly shaped his life. Teaching and mentoring young registrars became his source of purpose and healing, and his PhD thesis is dedicated to her. After suffering a traumatic brain injury and months of recovery, Lotz overcame significant physical and cognitive hurdles to complete his PhD.

Amogelang Moagi received her bachelor’s degree in occupational therapy. She had to overcome a traumatic assault, hip surgery and her mother’s death. She dedicates the degree to her mother.

Prof Salim Safurdeen Abdool Karim received an honorary doctorate. His scientific contributions to policy development crucial in fight against HIV and Covid-19. He fosters and supports the growth and development of African science.

Dr Luthando Tiya obtained his doctorate in pharmacology. He investigated farm workers’ exposure to pesticides. Herbicides or their breakdown products in blood of some people in farming-intensive areas.

Taswell Mabutha was diagnosed with dyslexia at age eight. He has completed undergraduate and postgraduate studies. He contributes his success to SU’s Disability Unit.

A first-generation graduate reflects on a near-decade academic path from SciMathUS to medicine. Loss, faith, and family shaped Naude’s resilience during the most demanding year of his degree. Mentorship, community and leadership helped him earn top recognition, including a Rector’s Award.

Amy Michau proves impossible goals are achievable. Elite showjumper: three FEI World Cup Qualifier wins and South African colours in 2025. Graduates from Stellenbosch University with a BSc (Agric) in Animal Science

Kerry Porrill was awarded Stellenbosch University’s top honour – the Chancellor’s Medal (2025). The Chancellor’s Medal was first instituted in 1961. Porrill is a graduate from the Mathematics Division within the Faculty of Science and this week graduated with a BSc Honours in Mathematics.

On 11 December, 21-year-old David Obagbuwa will graduate with an MBChB from Stellenbosch University, making him one of the youngest medical doctors to qualify in South Africa. Obagbuwa began his medical studies at the tender age of 15.