The Africa-Australia Forum addressed pressing sustainable development issues and the pivotal role of higher education, under the theme "Sustainable Development in Action: The 2030 Horizon and the Role of Higher Education," to explore the transitions and contributions of African and Australian higher education systems toward achieving sustainability.

UMP Vice-Chancellor, Professor Thoko Mayekiso, expressed gratitude for the opportunity to host such a significant event, as well as a new member of the AAUN.

“We are appreciative and grateful for the opportunity to participate in the network. It is encouraging to note that the highlight of this year's Forum is the formalisation of the Early Career Researcher Network of the AAUN. This is evidence of the network's commitment to building the next generation of researchers. There is a clear alignment between the theme of this conference and the strategic direction of our institution," she said.

The continued support from the National Research Foundation, and the Department of Science and Innovation in South Africa, was gratefully acknowledged, represented by Dr Thandi Mgwebi, Group Executive, and Ms Anneline Morgan, Chief Director, respectively. 

Another main goal of the AAUN Forum was to strengthen Australia-Africa relations.

Australia’s High Commissioner to Kenya, Ms Jenny Da Rin, shed light on the increasing number of African students choosing Australia for higher education, indicating a growing partnership between the two continents. This trend underscores the importance of collaborative efforts in advancing education and mutual development.

“For the first time, Kenya is among the top 20 sources of international students, and the demand continues to grow. So, it's up to all of us, the government, and new universities to build on the goodwill and shared enthusiasm to co-create an Australia Africa Education Network that keeps delivering. As leaders and custodians of the Australia-Africa education relationship, you have the power to shape the future and that will have important impacts not just for the relationship, but for our collective development,” she said.

Discussing the evolution of progress and the current state of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) in the context of higher education, Dr Heide Hackmann, Director of Future Africa from the University of Pretoria, said collaboration between scientists and policymakers is crucial for achieving sustainable development goals, and further emphasised the importance of interdisciplinary approaches in achieving the SDGs, calling for closer collaboration between different stakeholders.

Top on the agenda was prioritizing networks for research and collaboration. 

“In Africa, the SDG framework has been adopted in various countries, and there is a growing emphasis on transdisciplinary science policy. However, course corrections are needed in implementing the SDGs,” said Dr Hackmann.

Talks on the implications of Africa-Australia relations for sustainable development highlighted key challenges such as poverty, inequality, and environmental degradation, and emphasized the importance of strengthening partnerships and collaboration, particularly in areas such as science, technology, and policy.

Reflecting on the 12 years of the AAUN were Prof Cheryl de la Rey (AAUN Co-founder: former Vice-Chancellor and Principal, University of Pretoria) and Prof John Hearn (AAUN Co-founder: former DVC International University of Sydney), celebrating the original intent of the network to focus on the internationalization in African universities since there were concerns of skills shortage and local impact.

“The co-chairpersonship was established to promote mutual benefit and equity in partnership, transparency, accountability, and impact of projects between Africa and Australia,” explained Prof de la Rey.

Some discussions focused on research climate changes that align with Africa's needs.

The Vice-Chancellor's discussion on Partnerships in Action, emphasized the importance of prioritizing networks for research and collaboration, addressing the SDGs and regional trade agreements, and leveraging partnerships for economic development. Some of the actions proposed include:

• Training a critical mass of PhDs across Africa
• Bringing together stakeholders for Africa's development
• Initiating supervision arrangements leveraging Australia's expertise
• Focus on research climate changes that align with Africa's needs 
• Improving bean crop yield and taste through research collaboration.

Summarizing the levers for transformative change, Prof Aldo Stroebel highlighted the need for increased focus and integration, advocating for a deeper understanding of systems thinking and analysis to effectively address the complexity of SDGs, underlining the relevance of the "5 Ps" framework as a base for actionable transformations within the university network's future endeavours (People, Planet, Peace, Prosperity, Partnerships).

“If we want to be effective, we need an understanding of systems thinking and systems analysis for broader picture action will be required. As we delve deeper into the levers for change for fundamental transformation test rates, the so-called 5 Ps remain highly relevant. It is an informal construct to try and delineate the complexity of the numerous goals and objectives of the SDGs, but it brings an understandability to this complexity, and this is the base aspect of arguments that we can easily focus our transformations on as a university network going forward,” he said.

The two-day discussions culminated in proposals for concrete actions to accelerate transformative change and enhance impact.

The two-day discussions culminated in proposals for concrete actions to accelerate transformative change and enhance impact. The discussions assessed progress and identified potential pathways for transformative change and impact in alignment with the remaining six years of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Their pioneering work of new practices, and their education of future generations, are giving sustainable universities a special ability to create and influence change.

The Forum concluded with talks of strengthening Africa-Australia relations by forming collaborations on science and technology, hosting student exchanges such as the Erasmus programmes, establishing research collaborations and staff exchange frameworks, setting up an advisory group in Africa, and involving diverse voices and diaspora communities to raise the profile of Africa in Australia.

New leadership was elected during the Forum, and Prof Aldo Stroebel, DVC RII at UMP, and Prof Barnabas Nawange, VC Makerere University, were elected as the new Africa Co-Chairperson and Deputy Co-Chairperson respectively.

The next Africa Forum will be hosted by the University of Rwanda in May 2025.

Story by Lisa Thabethe. Pictures ChrisPLPhoto.

UMP and TUT have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) bringing together the UMP Centre for Entrepreneurship Rapid Incubator (UMPCFERI) and TUT Centre for Entrepreneurship Development (TUT CED) to cultivate a fertile ground for collaboration in this field. 

The collaboration between the two institutions aims to foster mutual support in developing educational materials and short learning programmes, as well as in exchanging and co-delivering these materials where relevant; additionally, the agreement will streamline access to networks and markets for entrepreneurs.

The strategic partnership entails the exchange of staff as guest lecturers specializing in business management and entrepreneurship development, facilitating the exchange of students and entrepreneurs, and providing support to individuals for project work at both institutions.

UMP Vice-Chancellor Professor Mayekiso and TUT's acting Deputy Vice-Chancellor for Research, Innovation, and Engagement, Professor Mokgalaka.

UMP Vice-Chancellor Professor Thoko Mayekiso said: “As an engaged University, our institution places great value on partnerships, collaborations, linkages and networks. We have identified partnerships as drivers and enablers in achieving our Vision, and strongly believe that partnerships are mutually beneficial and characterised by reciprocity and mutual respect.”

Over the past five years, TUT CED has been providing comprehensive solutions for entrepreneurs at various stages of business development, supporting them from the conceptualization phase to commercialization, and offering opportunities for funding and access to markets. TUT CED is committed to aiding UMP in implementing its ESD programme, coordinating its B-BBEE Unit, and fostering collaborative research projects and researcher exchanges as mutually agreed upon.

TUT's acting Deputy Vice-Chancellor for Research, Innovation, and Engagement, Professor Ntebogeng Mokgalaka, highlighted the synergy between the two institutions, emphasizing their pivotal role in shaping future-ready graduates.

“We would like to impart students with skills and competencies that make them relevant for the future world of work. The centre is dedicated to entrepreneurship development, fostering an environment where entrepreneurship is nurtured and promoted.”

She further explained that the CED is strongly focused on addressing sustainable development goals. “We are looking at enhancing good health and wellbeing, solutions for affordable apt enabling, also providing support for industry innovation and infrastructure and also to reduce the penalties but also to make sure that we foster responsible consumption and production equally.”

UMP and TUT Executive Management Teams, following the signing of the MoU.

UMPCFERI centre manager and lecturer at the School of Development Studies, Prof Kanayo Ogujiuba, added that the centre operates on five services, which include: Mentorship, Coaching on Recordkeeping, and Accounting, Coaching on Marketing Strategy Development, Business Compliance Planning and Registration, and Business Plan Development. 

Professor Ogujiuba explained that the centre also assists the incubates with understanding the importance of business records, how to generate basic source documents and interpret financial statements. Interventions are usually face-to-face and then follow-up sessions can be through mail correspondence. Incubates are shown how to keep the following record either manually or electronically on MS Excel.

Coaching on Marketing Strategy Development seeks to help incubates develop a framework for business operations that match industry opportunities so that the incubates can successfully pursue targeted markets.  

The MoU will ensure that both Universities advance entrepreneurship development based on the following strategic objectives:

• Provide holistic support to individuals, communities, and emerging entrepreneurs by equipping them with specialised technical skills, business and entrepreneurial skills, knowledge, and competencies needed to run successful enterprises in their respective sectors.
• Research to support future enterprise development and better understand what is needed to ensure a high success rate of entrepreneurship development.
• Provide co-sharing infrastructure to support entrepreneurial development.
• Develop capacity through the joint organisation of seminars, workshops, symposia, and technical conferences in areas of mutual interest.

The two institutions will also provide capacity development through simulated workshops and training to improve business and entrepreneurship abilities and provide business coaching and mentorship.

Story by Cleo Makhaga. Pictures @CLphoto

Dr Nthite has extensive experience in Higher Education administration and management, particularly in research and innovation, research funding opportunities nationally and internationally, as well as overseeing postgraduate students, emerging and established researchers, and research chairs, which positions her to develop crucial supporting strategies.

These strategies will enable UMP researchers to concentrate on impactful research addressing local, national, continental, and global challenges, thus driving forward the University's research agenda.

Before joining UMP, Dr Nthite was the Deputy-Director for Research and Niche Area Support at Tshwane University of Technology (TUT). In her role as Deputy-Director for Research and Niche Areas Support at TUT, Dr Nthite formed part of the task team for TUT’s Research Output Strategy and the Council of Higher Education (CHE) Doctoral Qualification Review Task Team.

Her priority and focus were on capacitating researchers, particularly postgraduate students, by offering them research development workshops. She also introduced students to the Innovation Office and taught them about Intellectual Property, Research Ethics, and research being done in the centres or niche areas.

Dr Nthite holds an MBA and a DBA from the TUT Business School, certificates from the University of the Witwatersrand in Managing Public Policy, and the University of Pretoria in Monitoring and Evaluation. She completed courses from the Southern African Research and Innovation Management Association, including the Higher Education Leadership Programme.

Through the National Institute for Humanities and Social Sciences, Dr Nthite participated in the South African BRICS Think Tank: Post-Pandemic Socio-Economic Recovery and the 2030 Sustainable Development Agenda. She has also worked on the YEBO project, a capacity-building project on the internationalisation of doctoral studies in South Africa, funded by the Erasmus Programme of the European Commission.

She believes in the importance of collaboration with internal stakeholders, faculty management, faculty administration, researchers, and other stakeholders supporting research and development, as well as external partners and strategic stakeholders.

One of Dr Nthite's highlights was being seconded to serve as a review panel member of the Department of Higher Education and Training: University Staff Development Programme.

Story and pictures supplied.

The opening bowler and all-rounder also plays for the UMP Cricket Team and joined the provincial team when she was only 16 years old. “I’m a medium-paced opening bowler for the team and bat number 5. I’m one of the best players on the provincial team,” she asserts proudly.

Mgwenya's journey to provincial representation began in 2016 while playing for Malekutu Cricket Academy.
“I boast the best bowling figures of 10-3-18-3 against White River at White River Country Club. This was the performance that catapulted me into the spotlight. This year marks nine years playing for the provincial team,” she reflects.

Her passion for cricket ignited at the age of nine when she started playing with boys in primary school. “I then decided to join cricket. I come from a very disadvantaged background and was the first girl to play cricket in my area.”

"It hasn't been an easy journey though. I encountered initial resistance from both my parents and society due to gender norms. I would sneak off to practice only when my parents were at work, sometimes skipping sessions for days before summoning the courage to return. My mother would often question, 'Where have I ever seen a girl playing cricket with boys?' But instead of deterring me, her doubt fuelled my determination to become the first girl in Malekutu to play cricket. Today, Malekutu boasts a girls' cricket team, a testament to my perseverance in the face of skepticism.”

“Despite the challenges and skepticism I've encountered, nothing could deter my passion for the game; instead, it made me work harder and make a name for myself. I found joy in playing cricket. A special thank you to Coach Sizwe Chiloane who saw the potential in me and has been with me every step of my cricket journey and never gave up on me,” she adds gratefully.

Mgwenya envisions a career at the intersection of technology and sports.

Mgwenya finds inspiration in Kagiso Rabada as a medium-paced bowler. “His ability to consistently bowl with pace, accuracy, and control, while also possessing the skill to generate movement off the pitch, makes him my role model,” she shares, highlighting Rabada's mental toughness and competitiveness as exemplary traits.

She emphasizes discipline and planning as crucial in balancing studies and sports. “I’m an organized person. Time management is crucial for ensuring that I give attention to academics and sports. I schedule my practice and study routine. Like any other student, I also deal with mental breakdowns because of the pressure that comes with schoolwork. However, cricket helps me to de-stress. It is very therapeutic and gives me a sense of relaxation and escape from daily stresses.”

“In 2018, during my first year at the University of Mpumalanga, where cricket wasn't available, I joined the Nelspruit club. Presently, I proudly represent the UMP club, competing alongside boys. My fervent hope is to see UMP establish a girls' team someday.”

Mgwenya envisions a career at the intersection of technology and sports, with a focus on cricket, after completing her Diploma in ICT. “One potential path is becoming a sports technology consultant, where I could specialize in implementing and optimizing ICT solutions for cricket teams, leagues, or governing bodies,” she explains.

She aims to fuse her passion for cricket with her expertise in ICT to innovate and make a meaningful impact in the world of sports technology and entertainment. “I could also develop software applications for performance analysis and player tracking, leveraging my knowledge of both ICT and cricket. I could also be a cricket entrepreneur, where I could establish my venture centred around cricket technology, such as wearable devices for player performance monitoring or online platforms for cricket training and development.”

Story by Lisa Thabethe. Pictures supplied.

The events, which took place on both the Siyabuswa and Mbombela Campuses, saw enthusiastic participation from members of the UMP community. Dr Paul Maminza, the Dean of Students at UMP, stressed, "UMP recognises the dedication of our staff and students. It's crucial to take breaks and focus on our wellbeing."

Highlighting the day's significance, Dr Maminza reiterated the university's commitment to wellness and unity, stating, "As a community, we will be participating in the fun run/walk. It's an important day because we acknowledge the hard work put in by both our staff and students. Coming together as a family to prioritise wellness is essential."

The event also served as a celebration of UMP's Decade of Excellence and Creating Opportunities, with Dr Maminza expressing gratitude to all participants for their dedication. He remarked, "Seeing you all in UMP
T-shirts reminds us of our shared commitment to the university's values. The spirit of our Decade of Excellence and Creating Opportunities lives on."

UMP Vice-Chancellor, Professor Thoko Mayekiso opened the Fun Run.

Regarding mental health awareness, Dr Maminza urged participants to recognise its importance, saying, "Today, although not Mental Health Month, we aim to raise awareness. Mental health issues are significant challenges in our society."

The event witnessed remarkable performances from participants across various categories. Nonhlakanipho Ntuli, from UMP Maintenance and Operations, clinched the top position in the Male Staff member's 5km run. Reflecting on his achievement, Ntuli shared, "The run was a bit challenging but I did my level best by pushing hard. Since this opportunity was presented to us last year, I have been dreaming of coming first!"

In the Male Staff member's 3km run category, Sociology Senior Lecturer Dr John Mhandu emerged victorious. Dr Mhandu expressed his satisfaction with the event, stating, "This was not challenging for me at all because it's something that I am used to. Every day in the morning and after work, I run 3 to 5km."

Staff and students participated in the Fun Run.

Kabelo Sefali, a third-year student Bachelor of Arts student, secured the top position in the 5km Male run. Sefali, who found the trail challenging yet exciting, attributed his success to his training regimen and expressed gratitude towards the university for organising such events.

On the female front, Staff member Cornelia Nkwamba claimed the top spot in the 5km run for Female Staff members. Nkwamba, an avid sports enthusiast, credited her active lifestyle for her success and thanked UMP for providing staff members with the opportunity to showcase their talents.

The event concluded on a high note, with participants expressing appreciation for UMP's efforts in promoting wellness and mental health awareness. As the university continues its journey towards excellence, initiatives like these serve as a testament to its commitment to the holistic development of its community members. The event ended with the awarding of medals.

Story by Cleopatra Makhaga. Pictures @ChrisPLPhoto.

This co-curricular initiative is a collaborative endeavour involving Higher Health, the Quality Council for Trades and Occupations (QCTO), and the Health and Welfare Sector Education and Training Authority, which seeks to tackle youth-related issues such as teenage pregnancy and Gender-Based Violence.

Two UMP students, Mamelodi Mphasha and Silindokuhle Xulu, emerged victorious in the competition to participate in the National Higher Health Civic Education and Health Skills Programme, and were trained and have received certificates, affirming their preparedness to contribute to community development, alongside their academic qualifications certifying their readiness for the workforce.

Ms Xulu, pursuing a BA Honours in Psychology and serving as the chairperson of the UMP Peer Educators, expressed gratitude for the opportunity, stating, "I am grateful to be part of the Civic Education and Health Skills course. The course is interesting, and I have gained a lot."

Reflecting on her personal growth, Xulu mentioned benefiting from improved problem-solving and time-management skills. "The civic education course became a very useful tool for me to gain knowledge on health matters," she added.

The two students trained in the co-curriculur programme are ready for the workforce. 

Mphasha, a third-year Bachelor of Administration student and Peer Educator, described her experience in the programme as incredibly rewarding, offering valuable insights into civic engagement, education, and public health.

"I gained knowledge of the socioeconomic determinants of health and the function of advocacy in addressing those issues."

The programme fosters collaboration and teamwork among participants, creating a positive learning environment. Xulu highlighted the opportunity to interact with students from various universities across the country, enriching her perspective.

About the Civic Health Skills Programme

The co-curriculum is accessible to all students and staff registered in the Post School Education and Training sector, irrespective of their NQF Level. It encompasses modules such as Civic Education, Gender-based Violence, Gender Equality and Diversity, and Transforming Mentalities.

It was launched by Dr Blade Nzimande, the Minister of Higher Education, Science and Technology. The co-curriculum is available in all 12 official languages, including sign language, and also offers 10 soft skills required by employers, such as active listening, conflict resolution, decision-making, and digital literacy.

The co-curriculum aims to address pertinent issues facing youth today, including health, mental health, and social challenges, as well as Gender-Based Violence, while instilling values of respect, compassion, community building, and commitment to social causes.

Ultimately, initiatives like the Civic Education and Health Skills Programme contribute to fostering good citizenship and voter education among the youth, driving social transformation in our country.

Story by Cleopatra Makhaga. Pictures supplied.

The event, held on 18 April 2024, was the first of its kind for the School of Hospitality and Tourism Management and catered to students enrolled in the Diploma in Culinary Arts, Diploma in Hospitality Management, and Higher Certificate in Events Management programmes.

The Hospitality Summit's primary objective was to provide students with a comprehensive introduction to their respective fields of study, covering critical topics such as industry trends, technological advancements, future skills, and employment opportunities. This initiative reflects UMP's commitment to preparing its students for the dynamic challenges of the hospitality industry.

"Where preparation meets opportunity" was the chosen theme for this year's Summit, aligning perfectly with UMP's mission of creating pathways for student success, as highlighted by Professor July Sibanyoni, Head of the School of Hospitality and Tourism Management.

"Since the establishment of the university, we've witnessed remarkable growth in enrolment, reflecting the increasing demand for skilled professionals in the industry," he remarked adding the importance of practical experience through the Work Integrated Learning (WIL) programme, which provides students with valuable industry placements.

"Our university-industry collaborative teaching and training ensure that students are well-prepared to meet the expectations of the industry." 

Experts in the Hospitality industry presented the latest trends.

On the day students engaged with guest speakers who offered industry insights, networking opportunities, and practical knowledge and skills. They also had hands-on experiences with organisations within the industry, enriching their understanding and preparing them for future endeavours.

Among the distinguished speakers was Chef Duduzile Mkhabela from the South African Chef Association, who shared her inspiring journey from facing unemployment to establishing her own food business. Mkhabela further encouraged students to engage with culinary organisations to help them achieve their career goals in the industry.

"I learned the importance of seizing opportunities and continuous learning. Market yourself every chance you get, don't be afraid to start small, and create your signature dish," she advised students.

Chef Victor Zidonga provided insights into the South African hospitality market, highlighting its significant contribution to the country's GDP and employment opportunities.

"Tourism is the fastest-growing economic sector in South Africa," Chef Zidonga stated. "It not only drives economic activity but also fosters development and reduces poverty. The influx of tourists drives up local businesses' demand for services and products, creating jobs, increasing revenue, and reducing poverty. Direct benefits include those created by tourism-related activities such as accommodation, transport, and the various attractions around our country."

The Summit served as a platform for students to connect with industry professionals, and gain valuable insights.

UMP alumnus Zwelakhe Mahumane, now working as a Duty Supervisor, shared his experience of pursuing higher education and career advancement. "Returning to school and obtaining my Diploma in Hospitality Management from UMP was a turning point in my career," he said. Mahumane encouraged students to balance their studies with socialising, and to explore scholarship opportunities.

Thando Mathebula, a third-year Diploma in Hospitality Management student, expressed how the Hospitality Summit has provided her with invaluable insights that will greatly benefit her upon entering the workforce. "I acquired essential knowledge, particularly regarding hygiene practices within the hospitality industry," she remarked.

The UMP Hospitality Summit served as a platform for students to connect with industry professionals, gain valuable insights, and prepare themselves for rewarding careers in the dynamic field of hospitality and tourism. With a focus on practical experience, industry collaboration, and seizing opportunities, UMP continues to empower its students to excel in the ever-evolving hospitality landscape.

Story and pictures by Cleopatra Makhaga. 

Hosted at the Siyabuswa campus, the Sports Day drew enthusiastic crowds, comprising both participating students and staff members, as well as avid supporters who came to cheer on their favourite male and female athletes.

Participants eagerly embraced the array of sporting challenges offered at UMP, engaging in disciplines ranging from athletics to football (both male and female divisions), from the strategic manoeuvres of chess to the traditional games of Diketo, Morabaraba, and Encuva.

 It was an exhilarating day for sports stars and fans. 

Below are the results of the competition:

BASKETBALL
Women: Mbombela
Men: Mbombela

FOOTBALL
Women: Mbombela
Men: Siyabuswa
Staff Men: Siyabuswa

NETBALL
Students: Mbombela
Staff: Mbombela

VOLLEYBALL
Women: Siyabuswa
Men: Siyabuswa

ATHLETICS
100m Women
1. Tondani Ndou: Mbombela
2. Maymoonah Nhate: Mbombela

100m: Men
1.Sfiso Ngwenyama: Mbombela
2.Ntiyiso Makhobela: Mbombela

200m: Women
1.Fortunate Banda: Siyabuswa
2. Kgotlelelo Rammabi: Siyabuswa

200m: Men
1. Ntiyiso Makhobela: Mbombela
2. Sfiso Makhobela: Mbombela

400m: Women
1. Maymoonah Nhate: Mbombela
2 .Ofentse Sebela: Mbombela

 Staff and Students from the Mbombela and Siyabuswa campuses were competing against each other.

400m: Men
1.Nhlanhla Maluleka: Siyabuswa
2.Kgopotso Mahlare: Mbombela

800m: Women
1. Tondani Ndou: Mbombela
2. Maymoonah Nhate:  Mbombela

800m: Men
1. Mahlatse Sethwane: Mbombela
2. Kabelo Sefali: Mbombela

4x100m Relay: Men
1. Siyabuswa
2. Mbombela

DIKETO
1. Thlokomelo Maswaneng: Siyabuswa
2. Molatelo Mamabolo: Siyabuswa

ENCUVA
Women
1. Onthathile Mahlomonyane: Siyabuswa
2. Khethiwe Shongwe: Siyabuswa

Men
1. Samuel Mello: Siyabuswa
2. Thokozani Mahlangu: Siyabuswa

MORABARABA
Women
1 .Nhlanhlane Jiane: Siyabuswa
2. Jessica Masilela: Siaybuswa

Men
1.Butane Kgabo: Mbombela
2. Tiisetso Letageng: Siyabuswa

CHESS 
Women: Retshephile Khiba: Mbombela
Men: Lindokuhle Mkhabela: Mbombela

Some of the UMP Executive Management team that attended the event, included Vice-Chancellor Professor Thoko Mayekiso, Dean of Students, Dr Paul Maminza, Siyabuswa Campus Director, Dr Emmanuel Tshikwatamba, DVC: Postgraduate Studies, Engagement and Planning, Prof Moses Mbewe and Registrar Mr Sello Legodi.

Story and Pictures by the University of Mpumalanga.