The English and Communication programme Sharon Wilson Award was claimed by top student, Tawananyasha Diane Hwata. The annual award ceremony took place on November 1, at the Rendezvous Restaurant on Steve Biko Campus, where Hwata’ s exceptional achievement of 91% in the Communication Literacy 101 module was celebrated.
While presenting the award, the English and Communication programme Co-ordinator and senior lecturer, Dr Maleshoane Rapeane-Mathonsi expressed that it was not a surprise that Hwata emerged as the top achiever and winner of this award as she remembered him as a hard worker who was dedicated to his studies.
“When I learnt that Hwata was the top achiever, I went back to check the attendance registers because I recalled he never missed a lecture, the registers indeed confirmed that. Even during lectures, he was an active student in class who displayed remarkable dedication to his work,” said Dr Rapeane-Mathonsi.
Hwata, a second-year student in the Department of Town and Regional Planning is no stranger to academic excellence recognition as he revealed that he had recently obtained a top achiever award in his home department.
“I have just come from another award ceremony, where I received a certificate recognising me as the top student in my department for academic performance. I was also surprised by the kind words my lecturers shared about me, highlighting my academic achievements for both awards,” said Hwata.
“Success comes from sacrifice and focus. When you find something, you love, give it everything and more. You never know when luck will strike,” added Hwata.
This year’s Sharon Wilson Awards ceremony was attended by staff from the English and Communication programme, Department of Town and Regional Planning and Hwata’s family.
Speaking at the ceremony, Ms. Terry Herd, a former senior lecturer in the English and Communication programme gave background about the Sharon Wilson award. She explained that the late Sharon Wilson, who was a lecturer in the programme, passed away in 1988 and she was passionate about teaching.
“When Sharon passed, her husband, Clive Wilson decided to invest R2000 in honour of his late wife because she loved teaching. Through the years the award amount has increased, and this year’s winner gets to walk away with over R16 000,” said Ms. Herd.
“It’s unfortunate that Clive could not be here this year to present this award because he was not feeling well, but he sends his best regards, Ms Herd added.
A Lecturer in English and Communication, Dr Jade Smith, highlighted the importance of the programme for students.
“Most students develop new skills and take pride in their improved articulation in English. I have attended all the awards since I joined the programme, and I must mention the compound interest. It’s not just about communication; it’s about the life lessons,” said Dr Smith.
Pictured: Top student, Tawananyasha Diane Hwata with Dr Rapeane-Mathonsi.
Photographer: Mnqobi Mngobese
Silindile Ntombela
