Graduation celebrations or cultural chaos? Expert weighs in

Education activist Hendrick Makaneta has voiced his concerns over what he describes as “chaos masquerading as cultural celebration” on university graduation stages.

Autumn graduation ceremonies for various South African universities in 2025 are scheduled between April and May. The University of Witwatersrand [Wits] undergraduate graduations took place from 25 March to 3 April 2025, while the University of Cape Town held its Autumn ceremony on 31 March to 4 April 2025.

While graduations continue at other institutions throughout the year, Makaneta urged institutions to rein in disruptive traditional practices during ceremonies.

Cultural celebration

Makaneta on Wednesday criticised the growing trend of graduates bringing knobkerries, assegais and other traditional items onto the graduation stage.

He argued that the practice poses safety concerns and undermines the dignity of the event.

“As we celebrate the achievements of our graduates, it is essential to reflect on the conduct of waving knobkerries and assegais at our graduation ceremonies,” Makaneta stated.

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“Waving knobkerries and assegais can be perceived as intimidating or threatening.”

While acknowledging the importance of cultural expression, he called for a more measured approach that balances tradition with safety and decorum.

“We love African celebration, but some of the things that we see on the graduation stage are no longer celebration but chaos,” he said.

Order must prevail

Makaneta emphasised that the well-being of professors, guests and fellow graduates must be the top priority.

He warned that traditional dances and displays of weaponry during ceremonies can cause unnecessary delays and create discomfort for other attendees.

“Our graduation ceremonies are a celebration of academic achievement and cultural diversity.

“Let us ensure that these events remain a source of pride and joy for all attendees, while also promoting a culture of respect and safety,” he said.

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He encouraged students to express their heritage in safer, less disruptive ways.

“We urge our graduates to reflect on their actions and consider alternative ways to celebrate their achievements. There are many ways to express cultural pride and joy without compromising safety or disrupting the ceremony,” Makaneta added.

Institutional responsibility

The activist also urged universities to set clear guidelines protecting the integrity of graduation ceremonies while honouring South Africa’s diverse cultural backgrounds.

“Graduation should be a sacred moment. Graduates should be encouraged to respect the stage and to respect others who are waiting for their names to be called,” he said.

“Traditional dancers must also respect the families who have travelled long distances to come and witness the graduation ceremony of their child.”

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