VANDERBIJLPARK – Vaal University of Technology (VUT) swapped its lecture halls for running shoes as the Convocation Office, the Office of the Deputy Vice Chancellor for Teaching and Learning, and the Stakeholder Engagement Department joined hands with Pick n Pay (PnP) to host a spirited Fun Run Walk fundraiser on November 29.
What began as a simple morning run quickly blossomed into a festival of movement, unity, and purpose, all in support of student financial aid.
From the first warm-up stretch at Isak Steyl Stadium, the atmosphere felt charged: Council members and senior management mingled easily with students, SRC members, and staff.
The Vice Chancellor and Principal, Professor Khehla Ndlovu, the Deputy Vice Chancellor for Teaching and Learning, Dr Mukondeleli Kanakana Katumba, union representatives, and alumni all stood shoulder to shoulder, proving that community is not a slogan at VUT, but a living practice.
Guiding the programme with effortless charm was Vincent Mdluli, Assistant Coordinator of the Institutional HIV/Aids Unit.
His voice carried the crowd from one moment to the next, and his energy stitched the entire event together.
Red Bull added its own spark by donating 100 cans, a symbolic offer of “wings” that many participants gratefully accepted before taking on the course.
Dr Kanakana Katumba opened the morning with a stirring call to generosity and shared responsibility.
“The first thing is to raise awareness about the culture of giving back to our community and young people, because when we invest in them, we are investing in the future. May you run safely,” she said, her words settling over the stadium like a gentle challenge.
Professor Ndlovu picked up the same melody in his short address.
He reminded the gathering that small acts such as running, walking, and showing up build the foundation of a stronger institution.
“It is important that, as a university, we continue to find time to do these kinds of initiatives to support our students. It also allows us to get together,” he said, before sounding the official start of the race.
Participants had the choice of a 4km or 8km route.
The shorter distance traced a brisk path toward Suncrest High School.
At the same time, the longer route stretched across Andries Potgieter Boulevard and brushed the borders of the North West University Vaal Triangle Campus.
Along the way, VUT’s own aqua water stations kept the runners fresh, grounded, and hydrated.
The finish line turned into a small celebration of grit and camaraderie. Convocation representatives, Makhosonke and David Matsaung, recognised the top performers in each category.
For the 4km race, accolades went to Thapelo Kgakatsi, Ikaneng Maphalane, Sandile Magqaza, and Mpho Mokaeane.
In the 8km race, the leading runners were Lucky Mogwasa, Theo Mokgele, Omphulusa Mundalamo, and Kealeboga Mmutle.
Speaking after the race, 8km champion Mogwasa captured the day’s spirit in simple, grounded words: “It was quite a good run, to be honest. The surface was quite wet, but it was worth it.”
Second place 4km finisher, Ikaneng Maphalane, added, “This was a great initiative that also encourages a healthy lifestyle. Keep it up, VUT.”
As the sun softened and the last runners caught their breath, Professor Ndlovu returned to close the event.
He thanked everyone who gave their time, energy, and generosity, reminding the community that every step taken on the track translated into hope for a student who needs financial support.
