VANDERBIJLPARK – What was meant to be a grand celebration for the new Vaal University of Technology (VUT) vice-chancellor (VC) Khehla Ndlovu, quickly turned into an arena of harsh words and aggressive criticism.

Instead of a warm welcome and cheerful applause after his robing at the Desmond Tutu Great Hall, union leaders hijacked the stage to unleash a hail of grievances.

One after the other, they took to the stage, not to congratulate Ndlovu, but rather lash out at the VC and his leadership.

First to grab the mic was National Education, Health and Allied Workers’ Union (NEHAWU) chairperson, Life Rihlampfu, who made it clear his speech wasn’t going to be sugar-coated.

“Upon your arrival, you made a promise that half of the employees who are on contracts are going to be converted. It is unfortunate that we are allowed to speak and you won’t have an opportunity to respond, although there are issues that these employees of VUT, which is a national asset, are not being taken care of,” he said.

With the crowd hanging onto every word and the employees he represents cheering from the back of the hall, Rihlampfu turned up the heat.

“This hall was supposed to be packed to capacity by satisfied employees, but you are representing demoralised workers. I’m standing here because of the frustration of these workers, who come to us and call us useless,” he added.

Rihlampfu was not alone in the complaining spree, National Tertiary Education Union (NTEU) chairperson, Kimberly Kempkes, also followed with her firm words.

“Your strategic ways of thinking and the constant pursuit for encouraging others to find solutions were welcomed with open arms. You let us believe that you embody the quality of vision, resilience and intellect that are vital to steer the institution to new horizons, but Haibo! You have to put your people first,” she said.

“Your appointment comes at a pivotal time. A time of mixed emotions, but we believe that under your stewardship VUT can innovate and inspire. All that we ask is that you stay true to your word and meet the obligation that management has committed. Eish re batla chelate [we want money],” she added.

“As we look forward to what lies ahead, let this be a time of collaboration, understanding, and ambitious goals. Batho pele, put your people first,” said Kempkes.