By Celani Sikhakhane
- Vice Chancellor Xoliswa Mtose joined students on the dance floor, winning hearts across social media with her joyful energy.
- A mother from eMpangeni stopped the show by tossing her wig and dancing in celebration as her daughter graduated.
The University of KwaZulu-Natal and the University of Zululand went viral on social media after their graduation ceremonies turned into full-blown celebrations, with parents dancing, students in traditional outfits and crowds cheering.
The stand-out moment came when UniZulu Vice Chancellor Professor Xoliswa Mtose ditched the formalities and joined students and parents in dance, celebrating their big day with joy and flair.
“She’s not a Vice Chancellor but a mother — her smile says it all,” posted one social media user.
Another show-stopping scene happened at UniZulu when a mother from eMpangeni near Richards Bay stole the spotlight.
When her daughter’s name was called, the proud mom jumped from her seat, tossed her wig and handbag into the crowd and broke into a full Zulu traditional dance. Her joy brought the audience to tears.
Another user, who was in the crowd, said: “I was there and I saw her. I’m normally shy, but our kids made us proud. Super proud mom.”
Another posted: “Step aside UKZN — UniZulu has upped the ante this year!”
Another user posted: “Ok, I’ll pursue my studies at Wits, but I’ll graduate from UniZulu. I want that vibe.”
UKZN students also brought the heat, especially a group of Indian students who got the crowd roaring when one of them took to the stage in full Zulu attire, dancing and getting the university’s top executives clapping along.
But not all universities are allowing the fun.
Durban University of Technology (DUT) students begged for a more festive experience.
One user pleaded: “@DUTOfficial, please let us celebrate our victory in a way that’s more memorable. Vice Chancellor, we want that moment where you would even kiss our foreheads.”
But DUT Vice Chancellor Professor Thandwa Mthembu shut the idea down.
“This is not a place for theatrical behaviour,” he said. “If you want to shine and celebrate, do it at home with your family, not here.”
He added that long celebrations delay the event and prevent other graduates and families from hearing their names.
Pictured above: Anele Xulu with his mother Thembani Rosemary Xulu at the UKZN Westville campus graduation on Monday, 12 May 2025.
Image source: UKZN
