UMP Vice-Chancellor and Principal, Professor Thenjiwe Meyiwa, described the Lecture as an important intellectual and reflective platform shaping ongoing dialogue on leadership, education and transformation.

“The Lecture is a moment of reflection and a call to action,” said Professor Meyiwa. “It reminds us that education remains a powerful tool to open doors, transform lives, and build a just and prosperous society.”

She noted that the Lecture both honours Dr Enos Mabuza’s legacy and challenges institutions and individuals to advance equitable and innovative education systems. Emphasising the role of leadership, she said education must move beyond access to deliver meaningful change that empowers individuals and communities.

Professor Meyiwa added that UMP remains committed to partnerships, research and community engagement in contributing to social and economic development. She highlighted values associated with Dr Mabuza – integrity, humility and visionary leadership – as essential in shaping education and society.

Delivering the keynote address, Dr Maduna proposed the establishment of the Dr Mabuza Foundation.

The keynote address was delivered by Mpumalanga-born Dr Patrick Hawkins Maduna, the first Black medical doctor at Themba Hospital in KaBokweni, Mbombela, who contributed significantly to improving healthcare delivery in the KaNgwane homeland.

Reflecting on Dr Mabuza’s life and leadership, Dr Maduna traced his journey from modest beginnings to becoming a respected educationist and political figure. He outlined key academic milestones, including a Bachelor of Arts degree in 1969, an Honours degree from Rhodes University in 1974, and a Doctorate of Law conferred in 1993.

“He became the youngest Black inspector of education in South Africa at the age of 33, a remarkable milestone that reflected his commitment to education and excellence during a challenging period in the country’s history,” he said, adding that leadership grounded in ethical governance and supported by education has the potential to transform societies.

“Dr Mabuza believed that sustainable development begins with leadership that is accountable, inclusive, and driven by the needs of the people. His significant political contributions include his role in opposing apartheid-era policies that sought to undermine the unity and autonomy of communities.”

Emphasising the importance of community-driven development, Dr Maduna noted that progress must be rooted in lived realities and active public participation.

“There is the importance of multi-sectoral collaboration in addressing societal challenges, for stronger partnerships between government, academia, civil society, and the private sector," he said, proposing the establishment of a foundation to honour Dr Mabuza’s legacy, with a focus on education, dignity and sustainable development in Mpumalanga.

“Such a foundation could play a critical role in advancing community outreach programmes, particularly in addressing non-communicable diseases such as diabetes, hypertension, and cancer, through education and early intervention."

UMP Vice-Chancellor and Principall, Professor Thenjiwe Meyiwa, said the Lecture is a moment of reflection and a call to action.

Dr Mabuza's Legacy 

The Lecture also featured Ms Elizabeth Mamamolo, a recipient of the Dr EJ Mabuza Scholarship Programme, who shared her experience of the programme’s impact.

Currently pursuing an Advanced Diploma in Agricultural Production Management in Israel, Ms Mamamolo expressed gratitude for the support she has received since 2024. She explained how the scholarship, rooted in values of excellence, integrity, collaboration and empathy, helped ease financial pressures and enabled her to focus on her studies.

“For two years, I struggled to secure funding, and it was incredibly difficult for me to pursue my studies. Receiving the Dr EJ Mabuza Scholarship in my final year allowed me to focus fully on my studies. It motivated me to work harder, and I am proud to have graduated Cum Laude,"  she reflected.

Dr Mabuza also played a key role in founding Penreach, a social impact organisation working to advance education in rural communities.

Chief Executive Officer of Penreach, Ms Susanna Behrendt, reflected on his legacy, particularly his commitment to expanding access and building sustainable institutions. She stressed the need for the sector to move beyond access towards improved outcomes, especially in early childhood development and schooling.

“We must ensure alignment between research, practice, and government to truly scale impact,” she said. “Partnerships with institutions such as the University of Mpumalanga are essential in strengthening education systems and creating lasting change.”

The Lecture concluded with a renewed commitment to advancing Dr Mabuza’s vision through collaboration, innovation and leadership, with speakers emphasising the continued relevance of his legacy in building inclusive and sustainable societies.

Story by Cleopatra Makhaga. Pictures JB Creative Cinema. Copyright © UMP.

The 'She Is Forestry' competition celebrates excellence, leadership, and milestones achieved by women across diverse forestry working environments. It provides a platform to highlight the vital role women play in shaping sustainable forestry practices while inspiring the next generation of female forestry professionals.

In anticipation of the 2026 competition, the UMP Forestry programme seeks to nominate capable, focused, and highly motivated female students from across all four academic year levels. These students will compete against peers from other higher education institutions offering forestry qualifications, including Fort Cox Agriculture and Forestry Training Institute, Stellenbosch University, the University of Venda, and Nelson Mandela University.

The University of Mpumalanga has already demonstrated its strength in this prestigious competition. In 2024, a UMP student emerged as the overall winner, marking a historic achievement for the institution. Building on this success, Ms Moratwa Mbali Hlabane, the 2024 competition winner, expressed confidence that the institution's female forestry students have the determination, capability, and academic grounding to claim victory once again.

Speaking on the programme readiness for the 2026 'She Is Forestry' undergraduate competition nominations, Forestry Lecturer at the University of Mpumalanga, Dr Ratsodo Tshidzumba, said, “Our female students consistently demonstrate resilience, academic excellence, and professional maturity.” 

He added. “We are confident that UMP is once again well-positioned to compete at the national level and showcase the strength of our training.”

Participation in the 'She Is Forestry' competition aligns with the University of Mpumalanga’s commitment to gender equity, student empowerment, and inclusive excellence within the forestry sector. It further reinforces the institution’s mission to cultivate graduates who are not only academically strong but also confident leaders ready to contribute meaningfully to the transformation and sustainability of the forestry industry.

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Ms Mashego enrolled at UMP in 2018 for a Bachelor of Science in Agriculture. Her interest in nematology emerged in 2021 during her final year while researching indigenous plant extracts and their effects on plant-parasitic nematodes affecting cassava. 

After completing her studies at UMP in 2022, Ms Mashego was awarded a VLIR-UOS ICP Connect scholarship to pursue an International Master of Science in Agro- and Environmental Nematology at Ghent University in Belgium.

During her master’s studies, she gained practical research experience in Kenya, where she worked with VegPro and conducted laboratory research at the International Centre of Insect Physiology and Ecology (ICIPE) in Nairobi. Her work included soil and root sample analysis of crops such as coriander, carrots, squash, and baby corn to study plant-parasitic nematodes in agricultural systems.

Her research exposure further extended to Germany, where she investigated bacteria-derived compounds and their effects on plant–nematode interactions. It aims to contribute to improved understanding of nematode dynamics in African cropping systems, with implications for sustainable agricultural practices and food security.

"The research examines nematode community structures in African leafy vegetable croplands, an area relevant to crop productivity and the protection of indigenous food systems, particularly for smallholder farmers," she says, adding that nematodes are often overlooked despite their impact on crop production. 

Ms Mashego's research contributes to improved understanding of nematode dynamics in African cropping systems. 

Ms Mashego's research contributes to improved understanding of nematode dynamics in African cropping systems. Through her work, Ms Mashego aims to contribute to improved agricultural practices, inform policy, and support rural farming communities. Her academic journey reflects UMP’s commitment to developing graduates who are globally engaged and socially responsive.

In November 2024, she was selected for a four-year sandwich PhD programme between Ghent University and the University of Mpumalanga, funded by VLIR-UOS. She commenced her doctoral studies in January 2025.

 She also contributed to capacity-building initiatives across Africa as a facilitator in a Basic Crash Course in Nematology, engaging with extension officers, laboratory technicians, and students.

Currently, Ms Mashego is pursuing her PhD studies between South Africa and Belgium. 

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The Nexus is an annual event hosted by UMP in partnership with industry stakeholders, aimed at providing students with a practical understanding of the sector while exposing them to real-world expectations, career pathways, and emerging global opportunities.

The event also serves as a platform to showcase the University’s academic strength and advance its mission of producing industry-ready graduates through meaningful engagement and collaboration.

Head of the School of Hospitality and Tourism Management, Professor July Sibanyoni, emphasised the purpose of the Nexus, noting that the initiative is designed to strengthen the integration of theoretical learning with practical experience, adding that the platform plays a crucial role in developing well-rounded graduates.

The Nexus contributes significantly to addressing youth unemployment in South Africa by positioning graduates as capable contributors to the country’s economic development, explained Dean of the Faculty of Economics, Development and Business Sciences, Professor Kedibone Phago.

“Collaboration with industry stakeholders is essential to provide students with meaningful exposure to the world of work before they complete their studies, enabling them to transition more effectively into employment,” he said.

Deputy Vice-Chancellor for Teaching and Learning, Professor Mashudu Davhana-Maselesele, emphasised the importance of moving beyond discussion to actionable strategies that enhance student learning and preparedness, and highlighted the value of strong university–industry partnerships in shaping relevant and responsive curricula.

The Nexus offered exhibitions and practical engagement sessions.

Industry engagement and practical learning

The Nexus also featured interactive elements, such as culinary demonstrations and exhibitions, offering hands-on learning experiences and reinforcing the importance of experiential learning in preparing students for industry demands.

Mr Sam Chauke, Assistant General Manager at Skukuza Safari Lodge, spoke about the dynamic nature of the hospitality industry, noting its significant growth and its role as a major employer.“The industry remains deeply rooted in human interaction and customer service. I encourage you to approach the profession with passion and dedication. Success in hospitality requires more than technical skills – it requires a genuine commitment to serving others.”

The UMP Hospitality and Culinary Nexus reflects the University’s commitment to developing graduates who are not only academically competent but also industry-ready. By fostering strong partnerships, promoting practical learning, and exposing students to global opportunities, UMP continues to position its graduates for success in a competitive and evolving industry.

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Formally launched in November 2024, AFRIAK is a learning and mentorship programme dedicated to nurturing a new generation of African researchers and practitioners who work alongside indigenous knowledge keepers to generate transformative ideas, solutions and pathways for the continent’s future.

The fellowship is inspired by and honours the legacy of Dr Sulley Gariba, a Ghanaian intellectual whose work championed indigenous knowledge and evaluation in Africa. AFRIAK continues this vision by ensuring that African knowledge systems are not only preserved, but actively mobilised for the continent’s transformation.

In March 2026, Dr Bhuda joined academics from across Africa for a month-long programme that included workshops, research presentations and campus engagements.

“The programme was launched with a mandate to strengthen research and training rooted in indigenous and endogenous knowledge perspectives. It affirmed that my work on Indigenous Knowledge Systems, pedagogy and curriculum transformation is aligned with a broader continental agenda,” said Dr Bhuda.

She explained that the initiative also encourages the application of Indigenous knowledge within local contexts, while assessing how such knowledge can contribute to growth in priority sectors and stimulate economic activity that creates dignified livelihoods for African youth and their communities.

“Being at Masinde Muliro University of Science and Technology for the residency, this broader vision immediately became tangible,” she said.

Highlights of Dr Bhuda's visit included seminars, field visits and cultural site engagements.

Dr Bhuda added that the orientation sessions, campus tour and initial workshops introduced her to the MMUST–AFRIAK Hub and its intellectual grounding.

“The programme structure, together with the local institutional and cultural context, and early inputs on CODESRIA’s tradition, Pan-Africanism and AFRIAK’s intellectual positioning, situated my fellowship within a lineage committed to epistemic justice and decolonial knowledge production.

Presenting my research concept on accredited Indigenous Knowledge Systems programmes in South African universities, and receiving rigorous feedback, pushed me to refine my problem statement, theoretical framing and methodology,” she said.

Reflecting on the experience, Dr Bhuda highlighted a rich combination of thematic seminars, field visits, cultural site engagements and structured writing sessions.

“The experience deepened my theoretical framework, advanced my literature review and consolidated my empirical work. Sustained interactions with Indigenous knowledge holders and fellow scholars from across the continent sharpened my understanding of knowledge as lived, relational and embedded, and strengthened my commitment to ethical, co-produced and community-grounded research.

The Kigali induction and the MMUST residency mark a continuum in my AFRIAK journey. From selection and affirmation, to induction and orientation, to a transformative residency that has clarified my scholarly identity and long-term contribution to Indigenous and Alternative Knowledges in Africa,” said Dr Bhuda.

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Led by Mr Thabo Dikgale, Director: International Partnerships & Networks, the engagement brought together several institutional leaders, including Dr Naledi Nthite, Director: Research Management, and Professor Kedibone Phago, Dean of the Faculty of Economics, Development and Business Sciences.

The discussions were highly productive, with both institutions outlining their academic strengths, geographical advantages, institutional priorities, and long-term ambitions for sustained global collaboration. The conversation revealed strong mutual interest in several key areas, including collaboration in research, curriculum development, and student and staff exchanges.

Additional opportunities to be explored include, inter alia, joint conferences, proposal development, and leveraging opportunities within the Erasmus+ and Horizon Europe funding frameworks. Both institutions expressed strong enthusiasm for advancing entrepreneurship and developing mechanisms to support the sustainability of small to medium enterprises.

This visit also builds on UMP’s existing partnership with FH JOANNEUM University of Applied Sciences in Austria, enabling the University to further strengthen its presence in Central Europe.

Following the meeting, Professor Kapferer was taken on a guided tour of UMP’s growing campus, offering her first-hand experience of the University’s modern facilities, dynamic learning environment, and impressive institutional growth trajectory.

The partnership promises to be both impactful and forward-looking, positioning UMP for deeper global collaboration in the near future.

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For her Master’s research, Ms Chauke examined the nutraceutical potential of indigenous fruits, and found that many of these fruits possess strong nutritional and medicinal properties, yet remain largely underexplored and under-commercialised.

“I noticed a clear gap in the market; there are very few indigenous food-based products available, despite many of these fruits being consumed and well known in local communities. My findings also confirmed that these fruits have nutraceutical potential,” she explains.

This combination of scientific evidence and market opportunity led her to product development, with the aim of translating research findings into accessible nutritional products. That realisation informed the establishment of RitaVita Naturals, which focuses on developing functional food products – particularly juices and jams made from indigenous fruits.

“These products are designed to be rich in essential minerals, vitamins, and antioxidants that can contribute to daily mineral intake, help meet nutritional requirements, and support the management of mineral deficiencies,” she explains.

Following the launch of her products, Ms Chauke began testing the market through entrepreneurship and pitching competitions. She reached the finals of the 2025 EDHE Intervarsity Competition, participated in the national rounds of the 2026 Hult Prize South Africa competition, and pitched in the TIA YAE Provincial Competition.

“All this was made possible by the UMP Centre for Entrepreneurship and Rapid Incubator (CFERI), which has assisted in cultivating my entrepreneurial mindset and exposed me to several business development opportunities." 

She was also recently selected through UMP CFERI to attend an entrepreneurship workshop organised by the Technological Higher Education Network South Africa, where she further developed skills in pitching, investor engagement, business development, and management.

“These experiences have strengthened my confidence and belief in the future of RitaVita Naturals. Reaching these stages has been encouraging and has reinforced my belief in the potential of the business,” she said.

Ms Chauke began testing her business idea and entrepreneurship skills by pitching at competitions.

Research with real-world application

Currently in the second year of her PhD, Ms Chauke is focused on research with practical relevance. Her work centres on understanding the value of indigenous plants that have long been used by communities, yet remain scientifically underexplored and under-commercialised.

She believes indigenous African plant resources hold untapped potential for nutrition, healthcare, and economic development. Through her research and entrepreneurial work, Ms Chauke is demonstrating how science, innovation, and indigenous knowledge can intersect to produce solutions that are both socially relevant and economically viable.

Her long-term vision for RitaVita Naturals is to grow into a globally recognised natural products company that promotes and commercialises African indigenous plant resources sustainably.

"I want the business to work closely with local communities and contribute towards employment creation and income-generating opportunities.

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In line with the EDHE 2026 theme, the competition offers a national platform for student entrepreneurs to turn innovative ideas and academic research into viable, scalable businesses with measurable social and economic impact. 

Previously known as the EDHE Entrepreneurship Intervarsity, the competition identifies, recognises, and showcases top student entrepreneurs across South Africa’s 26 public universities.

Speaking at the launch held on 16 April 2026, Deputy Vice-Chancellor for Research, Innovation and Internationalisation, Professor Aldo Stroebel, emphasised the strategic role of entrepreneurship in higher education and UMP’s commitment to developing solution-driven graduates.

He mentioned that UMP is intentionally transitioning from being a transmitter of knowledge to becoming a generator of solutions, building ecosystems that empower students to seek employment and to create it. 

"This platform affirms our direction as a university and strengthens our resolve to address real-world challenges such as youth unemployment and inequality, particularly within our province,"  he said.

Director of Entrepreneurship at Universities South Africa, Dr Edwell Gumbo, highlighted the importance of repositioning graduates as active participants in the economy by driving innovation, creating jobs, and contributing to economic development.

Speakers emphasised the need to develop innovative and responsive graduates.

Absa Group Regional Manager for Public Sector Banking, Mr Alfred Nkosi, said the bank encourages young people to leave university with qualifications and bankable business ideas.

 “Entrepreneurship is about solving real societal problems and building sustainable businesses that can transform communities," he said.

Director for the University Capacity Development Programme at the Department of Higher Education and Training, Ms Mandisa Cakwe, emphasised the role of higher education institutions in fostering innovation and growth.

“Entrepreneurship and innovation are key drivers of employment creation and national competitiveness,” she said. “Through cross-sector collaboration, we are building an ecosystem that empowers students to become job creators rather than job seekers.”

Programme Specialist at the SAB Foundation, Ms Onthatile Ditshego, added: “This platform is not the destination, but the starting line. Innovation requires action, consistency, and a willingness to take risks. Our goal is to turn potential into measurable impact.”

Speaking on behalf of the Director, Economic Activation Officer Ms Irondina Maile reflected on the centre’s growth since its establishment in 2020, mentioning that the centre, which was launched during the pandemic, has developed into a dynamic hub for entrepreneurship and innovation. 

"In 2026 alone, the centre has supported more than 37 businesses, created 36 jobs, and sustained 71 jobs – demonstrating tangible impact in enterprise development. “These achievements show that entrepreneurship in higher education is not theoretical, but practical, measurable, and impactful,” she said.

The launch brought together stakeholders from higher education, government, and studentpreneurs. 

Advancing entrepreneurship through impact and learning

Since its inception, UMPCFERI has achieved key milestones, including international recognition through a Best Pitch Award in Malaysia, hosting major entrepreneurship events, and establishing strategic partnerships that strengthen the university’s innovation ecosystem. The centre has also mentored more than 120 entrepreneurs and engages over 2 000 students annually through workshops, boot camps, and enterprise development programmes.

Senior Lecturer in Agricultural Economics and 2025 EDHE Teaching and Learning Awards second runner-up, Dr Bongiwe Mcata, highlighted the importance of embedding entrepreneurship within the curriculum.

“We must move from classrooms to marketplaces. Our role is to equip students with the mindset, skills, and confidence to turn ideas into real solutions," she said, emphasising experiential learning, problem-based approaches, and contextually relevant teaching that responds to local challenges and enhances graduate readiness.

UMPCFERI continues to play a critical role in addressing graduate unemployment and advancing economic development, particularly in rural and township communities. As it evolves towards a more sustainable and autonomous model, the centre is expected to expand its reach and deepen its impact.

The launch brought together stakeholders from higher education, government, and industry, reflecting a shared commitment to strengthening student entrepreneurship across South Africa.

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This achievement places UMPFSA among a distinguished global network of forestry student associations, representing the South African Region within IFSA. The affiliation creates new opportunities for Bachelor of Science in Forestry students to actively engage with peers and professionals from around the world, fostering collaboration, leadership, and innovation in forestry and environmental sustainability.

Through its membership with IFSA, UMPFSA members gain access to international conferences, symposia, workshops, student exchanges, and collaborative projects that address critical global forestry challenges. The partnership enhances students’ academic and professional experiences by exposing them to global perspectives, best practices, and emerging trends in forest management, conservation, and sustainable development.

Commenting on the milestone, UMPFSA Chairperson, Mr Ted Tsepo Masilela, expressed pride and excitement at receiving the official IFSA membership certificate.

“We are truly honoured to receive our IFSA membership certificate finally,” said Mr Masilela. “This recognition opens up meaningful opportunities for international engagement, collaboration, and active participation in IFSA symposia. It creates a platform for UMP forestry students to contribute to global forestry discussions while bringing valuable knowledge back to our local context.”

The integration of UMPFSA into IFSA aligns with the University of Mpumalanga’s commitment to producing globally competitive graduates who are socially responsible and equipped to respond to both local and international environmental challenges. It also strengthens the university’s role in advancing forestry education, research, and student leadership within South Africa and beyond.

Promoting Student-led Activities

As a registered IFSA Local Committee, UMPFSA looks forward to expanding its activities, strengthening partnerships, and promoting student-led initiatives that contribute to sustainable forestry and environmental stewardship on a global scale.

However, “It is critical that our Forestry students actively participate in the activities of the University of Mpumalanga Forestry Student Association (UMPFSA) and the International Forestry Student Association (IFSA), as such engagement plays a decisive role in shaping their forestry careers both locally and internationally,” said Dr Lucky Makhubele, emphasising that meaningful involvement in professional student bodies exposes students to leadership development opportunities, networking platforms, and global forestry discourse.

Echoing these sentiments, Dr Ratsodo Tshidzumba highlighted a tangible example of this impact, noting that “the nomination of one of our Forestry students, Mr Mgcotsheni Mlotshwa, to serve on the South African Region Committee of IFSA during the 2025 academic year is a clear demonstration of the leadership capacity, competence, and value of our students at both national and international levels.”

“We are further optimistic about the future and look forward to seeing one of our students take on leadership at the highest levels of the International Forestry Student Association – whether as Chairperson of the South African Regional Committee, occupying the IFSA presidency, or serving in any other strategic board position,” Dr Tshidzumba added.

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