The University’s Vice-Chancellor and Principal, Professor Nokuthula Sibiya, invited staff and student leaders to discuss issues that are important to all for the smooth running of the University. Professor Sibiya was honouring one of the promises she made when she was appointed to her position last year; to have an open communication channel with staff and students. Upfront, Professor Sibiya thanked staff and student leaders for dedicating their time to her request. She told them that she needed them to work with her to realise her vision for the University: to transform MUT into a leading Institution of higher learning, recognised for its academic excellence, innovation, and positive social impact. “I see MUT as a University that fosters an inclusive and dynamic learning environment, where both staff and students are empowered to reach their highest potential,” Professor Sibiya said.
Professor Sibiya said the ‘VC in Conversation’ with the MUT community was more than just a dialogue. “It is a space where both staff and students can openly engage with me, share their insights, and actively contribute to shaping a sustainable and thriving future for our Institution.” Professor Sibiya appealed to all to “seize this opportunity to engage in constructive discussions that will propel MUT to even greater heights. Together, we can make MUT stronger, more innovative, and a university we are all proud to be part of”.
Not known for shying away from the challenges, Professor Sibiya asked the staff and students to brave through the challenges with her. “Walk the journey with me. Please share your views with me,” Professor Sibiya pleaded with staff and student leaders, asking them to work with management team so the University will be recognised for groundbreaking research, intellectual advancements, and transformative innovations. The University, has on several occasions, been recognised for the progress it has made in some of these areas. Dr Anette Mienie, Director: Research, later told staff that MUT’s research profile was high.
MUT staff and the students welcomed the opportunity to have a conversation with the Vice-Chancellor and Principal by asking very frank questions which were an indication of how much they care about their Institution. The questions ranged from finances, student residences, conditions of the lecture halls, staffing, and general communication at the University. Professor responded to some of the questions and asked his management team to give responses to some area-specific questions. One of the informative responses was from Professor Marcus Ramogale, Deputy Vice-Chancellor: Learning and Teaching. Professor Ramogale, informed staff and students that one of the solutions to problems was that everyone was responsible for the development of an organisation. As much as anyone can raise concerns, they must also remember that they have an obligation to contribute to finding a solution to the problem. This is part of the “what I can do for my country” philosophy. Now the challenge is how everyone will coordinate their efforts at finding the solutions.