Serica designs, manufactures and markets graduation rings for the tertiary educational market; we are invested in the beneficiation of South African precious metals. With an 70% empowerment shareholding we are committed to grass roots empowerment, job creation and skills transfer. Our skills and experience lie in the tertiary education field, in marketing and in management and in the manufacture of high quality jewellery. In keeping with our empowerment profile we provide significant skills training to previously disadvantaged individuals. A significant facet of our programme is the support we provide to alumni and marketing departments of our partner institutions. Combining extensive international experience with the benefits of local resources we have the skills, the drive and the capacity to provide an exceptional service to this market.

In the interest of establishing the tradition of wearing academic rings in Africa we have focused on the leading institutions in the tertiary education sector. Our rings represent a significant opportunity for Universities to leverage their brands, complimenting their own drives to establish and maintain meaningful contact with alumni.

Nelson Mandela Foundation ®

Solid Gold Rings for Solid Gold Alumni In a ceremony held at Mandela House on Thursday 20th July, Mr Nelson Mandela and seven other recipients were presented with Honorarium Rings by the Chancellor of the University of Fort Hare. The event marks the 90th Anniversary of the University and celebrated the 88th Birthday of Mr Nelson Mandela.

Honoured alongside Mr Mandela were Mr Oliver Tambo, Mr Govan Mbeki, Mr Robert Sobukwe, Archbishop Emeritus Desmond Tutu, Inkosi Mangosuthu Gatsha Buthelezi, Prof Ephraim T Mokgokong and Rev Dr Khoza Mgojo.

Having pioneered the introduction of the graduation ring programme in Africa, UFH is the first University to take the opportunity to honour Luminaries with the award of Honorarium Ring.

In his acceptance speech on behalf of the recipients, the Right Reverend Malusi Mpumlwana said: “… affirmed with today's recognition of these alumni with rings that symbolise the permanence of their glitter and glory in the memory and fabric of Fort Hare and the South African nation. … I suggest that you (Mr Vice Chancellor) institutionalise this as an initiative to help address the country's challenges …” The solid gold rings are distinguished from the rings available to alumni by the legend “Honorarium” and the inclusion of a discreet diamond. The rings were carried to the stage by ladies from the Emthuthwini beneficiation and job creation project where the rings are manufactured.