Univen leader aims high

THE newly-appointed president of the University of Venda (Univen) convocation, Levy Ndou aims to raise the Univen flag even higher.

Ndou, (46), a well-known political analyst and lecturer at the Tshwane University of Technology (TUT), was elected president of the Univen convocation during their annual general meeting recently.

He succeeds previous president Shumani Ravhuanzwo, who was elected as his deputy.

Ndou was born and grew up in the rural village of Lwamondo outside Thohoyandou. He matriculated from the Shondoni Secondary School.

He then studied at Univen and ended with an honours degree in political science.

“The Univen convocation has to understand the university’s strategic plan and fit its plans into that plan. The convocation has to ensure that all the members are always informed about the developments at the university at all times,” Ndou said.

He said members were encouraged to make a contribution to the welfare of the university.

“We need to get everyone involved in the activities of the convocation. There are chapters in Polokwane, Gauteng and Mpumalanga. These chapters need to be revived and new chapters need to be launched. We also have to expand and have chapters in other provinces.

“Univen has a number of students from neighbouring countries. We have to expand and have chapters in Zimbabwe and Swaziland,” he added.

He said Univen convocants had to be encouraged to participate in the development of the university and assist students with work integrated learning and internships. “Our members are influential and occupy strategic positions in government and the private sector. They should be encouraged to assist in this regard. The convocation should raise millions to help needy students,” he said.

Judge of the Northern Gauteng high court, Tshifhiwa Maumela, said he wished the newly-elected members well and hoped they would contribute to Univen’s mission and vision.