South African Revenue Service Commissioner Edward Kieswetter was awarded an honorary doctorate in Business and Management Sciences in Taxation by Cape Peninsula University of Technology on Monday, describing the recognition from his former institution as “a full circle moment”.
The ceremony took place during CPUT’s final graduation ceremony in the Autumn Grad Series, with Kieswetter reflecting on his journey from apprentice to one of South Africa’s most senior public servants.
Kieswetter began his academic journey at the institution in 1978 when it was known as Peninsula Technikon, arriving as a young apprentice seeking his start in life.
“I started here as a young man trying to get his start in life. It is ironic that it is the impact of the work that I have done over these past decades which brings me back now,” Kieswetter told the graduation audience.
“I came to Peninsula Technikon as an apprentice in 1978. That turned out to be one of the greatest gifts in my life because this institution taught me that theory must connect to application. I walked these grounds back then with remarkable people who expanded my sense of what was possible.”
The commissioner thanked both past and present management at CPUT for their role in shaping not only his life but also that of other young people who look to education to transform their circumstances.
Recognition for broader community
Kieswetter emphasised that he accepted the honour on behalf of young people from the Cape Flats and beyond who face limitations in their lives.
“I receive this Honorary Doctorate on behalf of all the other young people on the Cape Flats and beyond who have had limits set on their lives,” he said.
Among those in attendance was a particularly significant figure from Kieswetter’s past – his former high school principal Victor Ritchie, from Harold Cressey High School. Kieswetter credited Ritchie as a formidable influence who recognised his potential and nurtured it.
The ceremony also served as a platform for Kieswetter to reflect on his legacy as he prepares to hand over leadership of Sars. The incoming Sars Commissioner Dr Johnstone Makhuba was present, along with other senior members of the tax authority and Kieswetter’s family.
READ ALSO: UFS celebrates as vice-chancellor receives prestigious award
“The best leaders work themselves out of a job. I am proud to hand over an institution which is better today than when I received it,” Kieswetter stated.
“My legacy is the ethical and disciplined staff who will take it forward.”
