Honouring Excellence: A Celebration of Growth, Gratitude, and the Future of Food Systems

The pre-graduation celebration on Tuesday, 25 March, was a heartfelt occasion filled with hope and gratitude as we honoured 15 transdisciplinary MSc students (Food & Nutrition Security and Sustainable Agriculture) and one PhD student. A sense of anticipation and excitement filled the room as these graduates prepared to embark on their next chapter.

Prof Gunnar Sigge and Dr Ethel Phiri, along with Prof Mbhenyane (in absentia), extended heartfelt congratulations, acknowledging the significant achievements of each student. The graduates, in turn, shared moving accounts of their academic journeys, highlighting the profound impact their studies have had on both their personal and professional lives.

The connection between food systems, food production, and our fundamental right to food was a central theme. Recognising the inherent inequalities and disparities within these systems, the programs’ emphasis on a systems approach proved invaluable. As demonstrated by the graduates, this approach has equipped them to navigate complex challenges across diverse domains, from primary production to health and nutrition.

Now poised to make a difference, many graduates are joining esteemed organisations such as UNICEF, the World Bank, and the food processing and retail sectors. Their success serves as a beacon of hope for the future.

We extend our warmest congratulations to each graduate. A special thank you also goes to the dedicated staff from the Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences and AgriSciences, whose collaborative efforts have been instrumental in bringing this hopeful vision to life.