We expect them to set the pace in educating towards the reconstruction and development of our country. Therefore, as I today become an alumnus of this university, I want to make an impassioned plea to all its members to recommit themselves to making it an institution of quality. This would entail discipline, hard work, respect for others and putting the common cause above short term personal considerations. Our country faces a major constraint in the form of limited resources. The needs of the poor and the previously disadvantaged are great.
Government has to prioritise carefully and maintain strict fiscal discipline.
This, however, is not only the obligation of government. Citizens in all walks of life need in equal measure to be disciplined and to utilise the resources at their disposal in the most gainful way. Tertiary institutions are major recipients of government funding and of subsidisation by the taxpayer. We all realise that much more remains to be done and that thousands of poor students are still in need of financial assistance. Recognition of that fact only re-emphasises the obligation to avoid wastefulness in dealing with resources.