The spirit of community upliftment rose gracefully on December 2, when the Vaal University of Technology (VUT) Department of Applied Physical Sciences visited the Emfuleni Shelter for Boys in Vanderbijlpark.
The outreach sought not only to support the home through toiletry hampers and food parcels, but also to deepen the ties between the University and the community it serves. The gesture reaffirmed VUT’s enduring commitment to social responsibility.
Lecturer Tshegofatso Malatsi, representing the department, noted that the initiative was rooted in a desire to forge lasting relationships with communities that exist within VUT’s reach.
She described this relationship as a “two-way street,” emphasising that although many charity organisations operate across the region, the team intentionally chose a home close to campus.
“Primarily, our role is within the academic space, but we wanted to extend our impact beyond teaching and learning,” she said, expressing hope that this would mark the beginning of a sustained partnership.
Echoing her sentiments, Lecturer Rethabile Phokojoe underscored the significance of shared responsibility.
“VUT cannot function without the community,” he said, adding that part of the University’s duty is to support the communities around it.
He further noted that such engagements may inspire the boys at the shelter to consider VUT as a place where their futures can be shaped.
The VUT delegation received a warm welcome from centre manager Mokhethi Vinger, who expressed the shelter’s deep appreciation for the donation and the presence of the team.
Shortly after arrival, Malatsi addressed the boys, outlining the purpose of the visit and emphasising the department’s wish for this to be the beginning of ongoing collaboration.
A moving reflection was shared by Oageng Makoba, one of the boys living at the shelter and chairperson of the centre.
He explained his responsibilities, which include supporting caretakers, observing daily needs, and escalating matters requiring management attention.
Speaking from the heart, he described how the centre has reshaped his life: “I was a different person when I came in. The centre has helped me grow and opened my eyes to the right path. It showed me that I have the potential for a bright future.”
Vinger also reflected on his work, describing the shelter as a space shaped by purpose and compassion.
Responsible for ensuring that the boys’ needs for food, clothing, and other essentials are met, he said his motivation lies in wanting to see the boys become responsible young men and future fathers.
He stressed that the boy child is often overlooked in broader social support structures, yet remains in need of guidance, protection and affirmation.
