After four years under administration, MUT today, 16 January 2025 witnessed a significant milestone when the Administrator, Professor Lourens van Staden, handed over governance of the University to the newly constituted Council at a meeting held at the Senate Chamber on the MUT main campus. Professor van Staden and his technical team comprised of Ms Moretlo Mokuele, Mr Paul Slack, and Dr Dhaya Naidoo, took over administration in September 2022 and have worked tirelessly to address the terms of reference prescribed by the former Minister of Higher Education and Training. During the handover, Professor van Staden expressed his gratitude for the support he received and highlighted the progress made during his tenure. He officially transferred the responsibilities and authority to the new Council, stating his confidence in their ability to lead the university towards a brighter future.
The newly appointed Council members, a diverse group of esteemed academics, administrators, business leaders, alumni, staff, and student representatives, gathered to mark this momentous occasion. Among the new Council members was Prof Stanley Mukhola, a renowned expert in higher education and academic matters who was nominated as the Interim Chairperson of the Council. He chaired the meeting immediately after being elected unanimously by the Council members. In his opening remarks, the Interim Chairperson pledged his support of MUT, and he committed to join hands with the Council in taking MUT to another level. He pleaded with the Council members to make MUT a preferred institution for young people to gain knowledge. The Interim Deputy Chairperson is Ms Connie Mametja, who brings wealth of executive experience in corporate services management and human resources and operation.
Remaking on this milestone, the Vice-Chancellor and Principal, Professor Nokuthula Sibiya said: “Today marks a new chapter in our university history. As we transition from administration to a fully constituted Council, we are filled with hope and determination. Together we will foster a culture of excellence and inclusivity.” The meeting concluded with a renewed sense of purpose as all Council members shared their commitment to work tirelessly for the betterment of the university. The establishment of the new Council marks a promising step towards a supportive, and forward-thinking university community, an environment where staff and students can look forward to a more fulfilling educational journey.