The visit formed part of the Department’s State of Readiness Monitoring Programme, which seeks to ensure that institutions are fully prepared to deliver quality teaching and learning from the outset of the academic year.
The engagement brought together University management, student leadership, departmental officials, and key stakeholders to secure a stable, student-centred start to the year.
UMP Vice-Chancellor, Professor Thenjiwe Meyiwa, underscored the importance of collaboration and reaffirmed the University’s commitment to student-centred excellence. She noted that operational preparations began in early January, with the first student intake commencing on 02 February 2026.
“UMP’s focus and commitment are on seamless registration processes, stable systems, and comprehensive student support,” she said. Professor Meyiwa explained that the University had prepared a detailed institutional readiness presentation outlining key statistics, systems and interventions to ensure smooth registration and academic continuity.
“Our preparations began early because we understand that readiness is not an event, but a process,” she said. “Although we have presented a shortened overview today, it reflects the depth of our planning, coordination, and commitment to student success.”
Reaffirming UMP’s student-centred approach, she added: “At the heart of our planning is the well-being, access, and success of every student who walks through our gates. We remain committed to ensuring stable systems, effective registration processes, and comprehensive student support services.”
Dr Gondwe emphasised that the DHET 's mission is to ensure that no student is left behind.
Dr Gondwe emphasised that DHET views itself as a partner in higher education, working alongside institutions to strengthen the sector and ensure that no student is left behind.
“It is important for us to come to institutions on the ground, to listen, to engage, and to understand the realities you face,” she said, acknowledging ongoing challenges such as financial pressures and accommodation constraints.
“We are aware of the budget constraints institutions are navigating. However, we must continue to plan carefully around access, residence capacity, and academic infrastructure to ensure that deserving students are accommodated within the system.”
She further highlighted the importance of student voice in evaluating institutional health. “We must also listen to student leadership,” she added. “Their lived experiences give us insight into what is working and where support may still be required.” In closing, Professor Meyiwa expressed appreciation for the Department’s continued engagement.
“We value these engagements because they strengthen our accountability and reinforce our shared mission,” she said. “Together, we are building a responsive, inclusive, and forward-looking higher education system.”
UMP Vice-Chancellor, Professor Meyiwa,
reaffirmed the University’s commitment to student-centred excellence.
Dr Gondwe also encouraged institutions to explore innovative approaches to expanding access, including online and blended learning models.
“If online learning can assist in expanding capacity while maintaining quality, institutions should consider it seriously. Through the Ministerial Development Fund, we are prepared to support initiatives that enable institutions to reach more students.”
The visit concluded with a shared commitment to sustained collaboration between UMP and the Department, with both parties emphasising that institutional stability, proactive planning and strong partnerships remain central to a successful academic year.
Story by Cleopatra Makhaga. Pictures by JB Creative Cinema. Copyright © UMP.