After years without a university since the dawn of democracy, the University of Mpumalanga has, over the past decade, emerged as a beacon of hope for countless students. Beyond transforming lives, UMP has played a pivotal role in boosting economic activity in Mbombela and its surrounding area.
In its 10 years of existence, the university has been a beacon of hope for students and aspiring students. It has also contributed immensely to stimulating economic activity in the City of Mbombela and the surrounding areas.
Since its inception in 2013, UMP has experienced remarkable growth, exceeding expectations. Under the guidance of its previous strategic plan, UMP Vision 2022, the university successfully implemented 96.4% of its planned measures, consolidating progress while setting new goals critical to building a sustainable and resilient institution.
In 2014, the University registered 169 students, and the number has increased to over 10,000 students in 10 years. Some of the students are relieved to study at a university in the province of their birth.
UMP Vice-Chancellor Professor Thoko Mayekiso said the university is producing graduates who are responsive, who are responsible, and graduates who are critical thinkers, who are entrepreneurial and innovative, who are adaptable and who are effective communicators. So that is our value proposition as the institution
"The university has achieved an excellent pass rate ranging from 80 to 85% over the years, and over 6000 students have graduated since 2014. The target is to enrol about 25,000 students once the tertiary institution is fully developed. The aim is to ensure that more young people are given a chance to pursue different fields of study in the next few years," she said.
Newsroom Afrika journalist Mweli Masilela has captured UMP's growth and contribution to the Mpumalanga Province.
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