Wits congratulates alumni awarded National Orders by the president

The Order of Mapungubwe, awarded to South African citizens for excellence and exceptional achievement:

• Dr Bernie Fanaroff (Silver)
  
• Dr Glenda Gray (Silver)

The Order of the Baobab, awarded to South African citizens for distinguished service. The service awarded is well above and beyond the ordinary call of duty:

• Dr Ridwan Mia (Silver)

The Order of Luthuli, awarded to South Africans who have made a meaningful contribution to the struggle for democracy, human rights, nation building, justice and peace, and conflict resolution:

• Dr Essop Essak Jassat (Silver)
  
• Dr Arthur Letele (Silver, posthumous)
  
• Amina Cachalia (Silver, posthumous)

National orders are the highest awards that a country can bestow on its citizens or eminent foreigners. South Africa's new national orders, first awarded by President Thabo Mbeki in 2002, reflect the inclusiveness and diversity of a democratic South Africa, our people and our place in the African continent. For information on the national orders, go to SA Government Online.