Unisa recently celebrated World Senior Citizens’ Day, which is observed worldwide on 21 August each year in recognition of elderly people’s contributions, accomplishments and wisdom in society and different spheres of the work environment. For Unisa, it was about appreciating the commitment of these magnificent people during their tenures at the university.

Commenting on the context of the event during his welcome address, Johan Muller, Chairperson of the Association for Unisa Retirees, said that Unisa retirees left a legacy at the university and are still active in their communities. "At the heart of this celebration is appreciating the contributions of these retirees. They have retired from work, but not from life," he said. "Our retirees do not see themselves as former Unisa employees. They endeavour to remain ambassadors for this great institution."

Prof Boitumelo Senokoane, Executive Director, Department of Institutional Advancement: Unisa

Prof Boitumelo Senokoane, Executive Director of Unisa’s Department of Institutional Advancement and initiator of the celebration, remarked: "Unisa will always appreciate your value at the university. You, including those who are deceased, have contributed to building 'brand Unisa'." Senokoane assured the retirees that Unisa will remain their home, and that the university commits to hosting this event annually.

Delivering a presentation aligned with Ralph Waldo Emerson’s words, "The best tunes are played on the oldest fiddles," Ina Wilken encouraged the retirees to keep their minds busy, eat healthy and exercise to live longer lives. Wilken, who has vast experience in the consumer and banking fields, further explained that "grey power" is generally about the influence that elderly people have on social, political and economic matters. She noted: "In terms of political and social influence, the collective power of older people could impact policy decisions and social trends." She said that the colour grey symbolises neutrality and balance, stability and security, intellect and wisdom, and adaptability.

Christa Smit, an experienced senior office administrator, focused on "Ageism and the world of work", and spoke against the exclusion of the elderly in economic opportunities and land reform. She added: "Considering the discrimination, stereotypes and prejudice around ageism, we need new narratives on it.” Smit continued: “We live in communities that are not longevity-ready, yet there is a need to prepare for a longer life with financial security and sustainable quality, embrace age diversity, and promote social inclusion". 

Annalise Kempen, editor of Servamus, a community-based safety and security magazine, affirmed: "Age is just a number; it is not an excuse to not achieve anything". Kempen spoke firmly against cybercrime during her presentation on "Phishing is an international sport. Think before you click". She cautioned the elderly to protect their personal information, as "it is so valuable that it can provide financial access to criminals without physical contact". Among others, Kempen advised everyone to protect themselves from falling victim to phishing by confirming the web addresses of 'service providers', to report suspected compromised information to the real service provider, and never to trust the contents of any unsolicited messages requesting personal information. She said: "Think before you react, do not let your vigilance go on retirement". 

A representative from the Law Society of South Africa (LSSA) spoke on the importance of having a valid and up-to-date will. She emphasised: "A will is your voice after you have passed on. It ensures that your wishes are honoured and dictates who inherits what; thus, how your estate will be handled, and by whom." Explaining what constitutes a valid will, she stated: "It must be in writing, signed by you on each page, signed by two witnesses in your presence, and contain special clauses to ensure that it is correctly carried out". Further, Smuts made everyone aware of the National Wills Week organised by LSSA from 15 to 19 September 2025, which encourages people to draft their wills. This service is provided at no cost. "You can visit the LSSA website to check the list of participating attorneys and book an appointment," she said.

Focusing on "Health and wellness in retirement", Sister Mokgadi Tefo, professional nurse at the Unisa Clinic under the Employee Relations and Wellness Directorate, said that the Unisa Clinic started with basic services, but continues to grow due to the support of Unisa management and other key stakeholders. Tefo cautioned the audience that Covid-19 still exists and reiterated the importance of applying protective measures, such as wearing a mask in public if you suspect that you have been infected. She continued: "We render primary health care services, such as health promotion, healthcare prevention, curative measures, and rehabilitative services, mainly on referral". Further, Tefo stated that these services are also available to Unisa retirees.

In closing, Irene Chadibe, management member of the Association for Unisa Retirees, thanked the presenters for providing insightful information to the retirees, and Unisa for making the event possible. She said: "To our retirees, your contributions will also be remembered". 

* By Nancy Legodi, Acting Senior Journalist, Department of Institutional Advancement

** Photography by Mduduzi Khathamzi, Unisa Multimedia Centre