Mr Chiloane is deeply concerned about the obstacles facing students, both at UMP and across South Africa. These challenges include financial barriers, such as the impact of NSFAS accommodation policies and debt management issues, as well as the reintroduction of academic exclusion policies.
“These challenges have caused significant anxiety, with many fearing they may not be able to return to campus. The reintroduction of academic exclusion policies paused since 2021, has only heightened these concerns. Students often ask us how they are expected to meet academic standards when they lack sufficient support to improve their performance,” he explains.
To address these pressing issues, Chiloane and his team are proactively developing solutions and intend to present comprehensive proposals to university management. These proposals focus on improving financial accessibility, strengthening academic support structures, and enhancing resources for student societies and sports teams.
“This role is deeply personal to me. It’s not just about managing students’ daily concerns; it’s about laying the foundation for a transformed, inclusive university that reflects the aspirations of every student who steps onto this campus.
Serving as SRC President is both a privilege and a responsibility – it’s about building a future where my younger siblings and, one day, my children can attend a university that prioritises quality education, equity, and meaningful progress,” Chiloane says.
He also highlights the importance of policy reform, emphasising the need to modernise outdated frameworks to better support student success.
“Students should know that we are not passive observers but active advocates. We approach every issue with urgency, working tirelessly to represent the student voice. They can trust that their concerns will be heard and that we are committed to finding solutions that reflect their needs and aspirations.”
Mr Chiloane is advocating for academic programmes that align with the economic needs of the province of Mpumalanga.
A Vision for Vibrant Collaboration
Mr Chiloane envisions a dynamic partnership between the SRC, university management, and external stakeholders to foster a vibrant and engaged campus community. He aims to co-create initiatives such as mental health awareness campaigns, career expos, and sporting events to enrich student life.
“Our focus is on safeguarding students’ right to education and ensuring they can continue their studies without undue financial strain. Collaboration between the SRC and university management (MANCO) is key to creating an engaged student body.
As the SRC, we see ourselves as a bridge between students and the administration. We aim to ensure that university policies, programmes, and decisions reflect the lived realities of our students. Regular meetings, joint committees, and feedback sessions with MANCO will help us stay aligned in addressing key concerns,” he explains.
Mr Chiloane further emphasises the importance of engaging external stakeholders, including local municipalities, businesses, and civil society organisations, to enhance the student experience.
“By co-developing initiatives such as mental health awareness weeks, career expos, and sporting events with MANCO, we aim to create a dynamic and enriching campus environment. Our leadership is focused on empowering students academically, socially, mentally, and personally.”
In alignment with UMP’s “Creating Safe Spaces” initiative, Mr Chiloane is committed to promoting a zero-tolerance approach to violence on and off campus.
“To strengthen this effort, we will partner with university management and student organisations to host impactful awareness campaigns addressing gender-based violence and mental health. We’ll also advocate for enhanced security measures and accessible reporting channels. Collaborating with student societies and structures will ensure that these measures are inclusive and responsive to all students’ needs,” he says.
Journey of Purpose
Initially enrolled in a Diploma in Agriculture, Mr Chiloane discovered his true passion for policymaking and law. Although circumstances led him to pursue a Bachelor of Development Studies, he now sees this path as perfectly aligned with his vision for driving meaningful change and uplifting communities.
“This programme aligns perfectly with my goal of influencing policies that uplift communities. For me, being SRC President is about more than leadership; it’s about creating a legacy. It’s about building a university that prioritises equity, quality education, and radical progress," adds.
“By the end of my term, if I’ve inspired even one student to believe in the power of activism and change, my leadership will have served its purpose. My greatest aspiration is for a University of Mpumalanga where no student feels excluded – financially, academically, or socially.
I want to push for meaningful curriculum reforms that align with Mpumalanga’s economic landscape, ensuring every graduate is equipped with the skills and opportunities to thrive. Policies that once hindered dreams will be reimagined to prioritise fairness, inclusivity, and student welfare."
As he embarks on his term, Mr Chiloane is determined to leave a lasting impact by October 2025, when new leadership will take over.
Story by Cleopatra Makhaga. Pictures @ChrisplPhoto.