By Comfort Mamabolo, Mueletshedzi Siphuma & Nyeleti Nyathi
The University of Limpopo (UL) officially welcomed its Class of 2026 with a series of activities designed to ease the transition from high school to university life, combining inspiration, guidance and academic support for first-year students.
Held at the Oscar Mpetha Stadium . The event brought together university management, student leaders, staff members and alumni to warmly receive new students into the UL community.
Newly appointed Principal and Vice-Chancellor, Dr Jeffrey Mabelebele assured them that UL would be more than just a place to study. “The University of Limpopo is your home away from home. You must walk proudly as ambassadors of this institution and commit yourselves fully to your studies,” he said.
Dr Jeffrey Mabelebele, University of Limpopo Vice Chancellor. Photo by: Dimpho Boshomane
The programme director, Moses Moreroa Marketing and Communication Manager encouraged students to believe in their potential, reminding them that greatness often starts on the same campus they now call home. ” Clement Maosa and President Cyril Ramaphosa once sat where you are sitting today, do not fear greatness,” he said.
Executive Director for Marketing and Communications, Victor Kgomoeswana, challenged students to rise above difficulties using a simple metaphor. “Life will test you like boiling water tests carrot, and egg and coffee bean. Be the coffee bean that changes the environment instead of being changed by it,” he said
Victor Kgomoeswana motivating first year’s students on campus life. Photo by: Dimpho Boshomane
Acting Dean of Students, Melusi Nxumalo, reminded students of the 2026 welcoming theme, “My journey starts at UL is not just a slogan. it is a commitment to growth, resilience and success”
Executive Deans echoed similar sentiments. Professor Mamare Bopape acknowledged that life would not always be easy. “You will face challenges, but determination will carry you through,” she said. Professor Satsope Maoto encouraged students, particularly female students to remain focused. “Prioritise your studies, respect yourselves and never lose sight of why you are here” she advised.
Melusi Nxumalo offering messages of support to students. Photo by: Dimpho Boshomane
Comfort Komane, President of the Student Representative Council (SRC) assured students “No student will be left behind. The SRC is here to serve and protect your interests,” he said. He encouraged students to speak up and make use of student leadership structures. “If you are struggling academically, socially or financially, come to us. The SRC exists to represent your voice and make sure your concerns are heard,” Komane said. He added that student leadership works closely with university management to ensure student needs are prioritised. “We want first years to feel safe, supported and confident enough to focus on their studies,” he said.
Deputy Vice-Chancellor for Teaching and Learning, Professor Richard Madadzhe, concluded the programme by sharing his journey as a former UL student and encouraging first years to contribute solutions to Africa’s challenges.
First Year Students being guided through the library. Photo by: Forgive Hlungwane
As part of continued support for first-year students, the university hosted a Library Orientation Programme on 5 February to introduce students to key academic resources. “The library is central to your academic success. This is where you learn to research independently and take responsibility for your studies,” said one of the librarians facilitating the session. Students were shown how to access books, journals, online databases and library computers for research and assignments.
The programme also highlighted library laboratories, printing services and study spaces, emphasising the library’s role as a safe and supportive environment where students can seek assistance, build strong study habits and take responsibility for their learning.
For many students, these activities marked their first real introduction to university life. Mojela Khomotso Pheeha (19), a Bachelor of Arts student in Language and Communication from Bochum, described the Freshers Experience as informative and socially enriching, saying it allowed her to learn more about university leadership, make new friends and reconnect with former classmates.
Lerato Mokoena, a first-year BSc student in Environmental and Resource Studies, said the library orientation helped ease her anxiety about university life. “Everything feels so big coming from high school,” she said. “But the orientation helped me understand where to find information and who to ask for help. I feel more confident now.”
BCOM Economics student Thabo Ndlovu shared his excitement about the year ahead, noting that the orientation showed him that university learning extends beyond lectures. “It’s about using resources like the library to grow academically and push yourself,” he said.
Together, the Freshers Experience and Library Orientation set a positive tone for the Class of 2026, reminding students that while university life requires independence and initiative, they are supported every step of the way as their journey begins at UL.
Photo by: Forgive Hlungwane
