TUT Giyani campus refurbishment finally underway
Refurbishment of TUT’s Giyani campus has begun, with leaders vowing to complete the long-awaited project in time for its January 2026 opening.
LIMPOPO – The long-anticipated refurbishment of the Tshwane University of Technology (TUT) Giyani Campus has officially begun, contractors handed over the site on Friday to commence work. The campus is scheduled to open in January next year.
The handover ceremony, attended by TUT leadership, local government officials, and traditional authorities, marked a significant milestone in the community’s decades-long fight for access to higher education in Giyani.
TUT vice-chancellor and principal, Prof Tinyiko Maluleke, addressed the event, stating that the campus is intended to serve not just Giyani but the entire country. He emphasised the importance of transforming the long-neglected and vandalised facility into a university campus worthy of the Department of Higher Education’s mandate.
“This campus should not be mistaken for a local high school or general dealer. It is for all South Africans, regardless of class, gender, or birthplace,” Maluleke said. He added that the university aims to attract top-tier students and lecturers to support the national education agenda.
Interim campus rector, Isaac Tlhabadira, urged contractors to avoid delays, warning against non-payment of workers or failure to provide proper equipment.
“We do not want excuses. This campus must be ready by January,” he stressed.
Traditional leaders welcomed the project, celebrating it as a victory for rural education. Speaking on behalf of Tsonga traditional leaders, Hosi Xilungwa said the campus would bridge the education gap in Limpopo.
“Our children and grandchildren will no longer have to travel far to access higher education,” he said.
Greater Giyani Mayor Thandi Zitha also hailed the development as a key asset for the municipality and the wider Mopani District.
“This project will help combat underdevelopment, open opportunities for locals, and boost the economy,” she said, encouraging continued support from traditional leaders.
Despite the late appointment of contractors, the university remains committed to meeting the January 2026 opening deadline.
