Graduation Day: The ultimate survival test

GRADUATION – Just saying the word can bring a wave of emotions: Excitement, pride and—let’s be real—relief. It’s that magical day when students can finally toss their textbooks in the air, put on a cap and gown (preferably without tripping over it) and officially transition from “student” to “graduand.” It’s one of those rare moments when everyone in the room—parents, friends and even professors—actually applaud your ability to finish something.

And in the case of higher education, that something is the years of assignments, endless exams and those terrifying supplementary tests that lurk in the background like unwanted guests at a party.

Graduation has become such a widespread event now that it feels like it’s being celebrated at every stage of schooling. It’s no longer just for the high schoolers or university graduates.

Oh no, now even little ones finishing nursery school are getting in on the action. I mean, when did we all start getting graduation gowns at age five? What’s next, a ceremony for kindergarteners who finally learn how to tie their shoes?

But let’s focus on the real deal—the grand finale: University graduation. This is the big one. The moment you walk across that stage and get handed your degree or diploma; you know you’re officially ready to face the “real world.”

You’ve survived all the stress, the all-nighters and yes, the occasional existential crisis (usually after a particularly difficult exam or the realisation that your final project was due yesterday).

But despite it all, you made it. And let’s not forget the tremendous relief that comes with it. You’re finally free of the never-ending cycle of assignments and coursework. No more pulling your hair out over assignments that feel like they’re written in hieroglyphics.

Take the 9,493 graduates from the Dar es Salaam University College of Education (DUCE), for example. They recently celebrated their 17th graduation ceremony in Dar es Salaam, marking a significant milestone in their academic journeys. Imagine the joy (and maybe a few tears) as these students donned their gowns and caps, ready to be decorated with the prestigious awards that signalled their hard-earned success. It wasn’t just the students who were excited; their families, friends and even random strangers from the street seemed to join in the celebration, clapping and cheering them on. (Hey, they probably figured it was a good excuse to attend a party.)

The presence of former President and current Chancellor of the University of Dar es Salaam (UDSM), Dr Jakaya Kikwete, made the day even more special. Not only did he have the honour of handing out the degrees, but for many students, the chance to be congratulated by a former president was an experience they’ll never forget. It’s like a VIP moment that adds an extra layer of prestige to the whole occasion.

Professor Evelyne Mbede, the Proctor of the university, kicked things off with an inspiring speech. She reminded the graduates of the words of Tanzania’s first president, Mwalimu Julius Nyerere, who famously said, “education is a tool for liberation.” In other words, education isn’t just about collecting certificates (although let’s be honest, that’s a nice bonus). It’s about using the knowledge you’ve gained to bring positive change to your community and the world at large.

She also made sure to sneak in some sage advice, warning the new graduates about the importance of protecting their health and avoiding risky behaviours that could derail their dreams. Because let’s face it, we all know someone who had big plans for the future, but a few bad decisions left them with regrets (we won’t name names).

Ambassador Mwanaidi Maajar, Chairperson of the University of Dar es Salaam’s council, also took the stage to express her gratitude for the government’s support.

She credited President Samia Suluhu Hassan’s leadership for improving the teaching and learning environment at the university. This support isn’t just about funding; it’s about creating an infrastructure that allows students to thrive and reach their full potential.

Ambassador Maajar even thanked the Ministry of Education, Science and Technology for its investment in projects like the Higher Education for Economic Transformation (HEET) programme. After all, nothing says “successful graduation” like a well-funded, well-equipped university.

Professor William Anangisye, Chairman of the College Governing Board, took a moment to reflect on the university’s progress over the years. From the construction of new buildings to the training of staff, DUCE has been working hard to enhance its academic offerings. The goal? To create an environment that prepares students for success—just like the 9,493 graduates who were about to step into the world, ready to make their mark.

But it wasn’t just about the buildings and the speeches. It was about the people—the graduates themselves. Professor Anangisye acknowledged the hard work and dedication of the students, thanking their families, friends and various stakeholders for their unwavering support. After all, getting a degree isn’t just a personal achievement; it’s a communal one. Think of all the parents who had to make sacrifices, the friends who offered moral support during the darkest days (usually after failed exams) and the family members who gave you money when your wallet mysteriously disappeared. Those are the unsung heroes of graduation.

ALSO READ: 14 new varsity campuses set to open next academic year

Speaking of heroes, the best graduate of the day, Nestory Mbilinyi, was honoured for his exceptional academic performance, earning a near-perfect GPA of 4.8 in his Bachelor of Arts with Education degree.

It wasn’t just his academic excellence that made him stand out, though; his heartfelt request for the government to create more opportunities for self-employment showed a deep sense of responsibility and foresight.

Mbilinyi knows that the road to success isn’t just about getting a degree; it’s about using that degree to create opportunities for yourself and others. And, of course, he offered some words of wisdom for the students still grinding away in the classroom: “Always work hard, go to the library and don’t just rely on lectures.” Well, that’s one way to keep those students in line!

And finally, as the best graduate, Mbilinyi had the rare honour of receiving his degree from Dr Kikwete himself. It was the kind of moment that’ll probably show up in every family photo album for years to come. (I mean, who wouldn’t want a picture with a former president, right?)

In the end, graduation day at DUCE wasn’t just about donning caps and gowns or sitting through speeches. It was about the shared joy of overcoming challenges, reaching a significant milestone and stepping confidently into the future. It’s a day filled with hope, excitement and the promise of what’s to come.

So, whether you’re graduating from university or kindergarten, it’s a moment worth celebrating. After all, it’s not every day you get to wear a gown without feeling like you’re about to get sent to the principal’s office.