VANDERBIJLPARK – The Vaal University of Technology (VUT) reaffirmed its commitment to collaboration, accountability and institutional renewal during its Internal Stakeholders Engagement Roundtable, held over two sessions on June 24 at the VUT Southern Gauteng Science and Technology Park in Sebokeng and concluding on July 8 at the VUT Conference Centre.
Held under the theme “Fostering a culture of engagement and collaboration with internal stakeholders”, the roundtable was part of the university’s ongoing efforts to strengthen internal collaboration and to track progress on commitments made during previous stakeholder engagements in 2025.
Rather than revisiting existing challenges, this year’s engagements focused on reflecting on achievements, evaluating ongoing interventions, and identifying priorities to continue driving the institution forward.
Opening the roundtable, Vice Chancellor and Principal Professor Khehla Ndlovu reflected on the journey that led to the stakeholder engagement process, following recommendations from Parliament’s Portfolio Committee on Higher Education and Training.
He noted that the institution has progressed from identifying challenges to implementing practical solutions, emphasising that the university must now demonstrate measurable improvements in governance, operational effectiveness, financial sustainability and service delivery.
Professor Ndlovu encouraged delegates to critically assess the progress made across the institution, highlighting the importance of evidence-based reporting as VUT continues to implement its Strategy 2033+.
The presentations delivered across the two engagements reflected a university that was steadily translating strategy into action.
Although each portfolio reported on different focus areas, a common message emerged: sustainable institutional success depends on collaboration, shared accountability and continuous improvement.
Across Finance, Human Resources, and Governance, delegates heard about efforts underway to strengthen the university’s internal systems through improved financial management, organisational capacity, policy development, and institutional governance.
These initiatives continue to strengthen the foundation for effective decision-making and long-term sustainability.
We also emphasised creating an environment that helps both staff and students succeed. Updates from the Resources and Operations, Student Support Services, and Teaching and Learning portfolios highlighted progress in infrastructure maintenance, campus improvements, digital transformation, upgraded teaching facilities, and expanded student support services.
Delegates also heard about initiatives aimed at improving student wellbeing through healthcare, counselling, food security, accommodation, leadership development, entrepreneurship programmes and sporting opportunities, reflecting the university’s holistic approach to student success.
