Held at the Mbombela Campus, the inauguration brought together university leadership, government and private sector representatives, higher education leaders, traditional leaders, organised labour, students, alumni, industry representatives, family and friends to witness the formal installation of Professor Meyiwa and celebrate her leadership journey.

Professor Meyiwa, UMP’s second Vice Chancellor and Principal since the University’s establishment, assumed office on 1 October 2025. In her inaugural address, she reflected on the journey that brought her to UMP and outlined her vision for the University’s continued growth and development.

Drawing on the power of storytelling and lessons instilled by her grandmother, Professor Meyiwa described her leadership journey as part of a much bigger story – one shaped by the aspirations of those who envisioned a post-apartheid university in Mpumalanga.

“As I stand before you today, I am conscious of the expectations that this talk may be a litany of achievements in the past 10 months and of future strategies and aspirations. Yet, as UMP, a young and growing African university, which aims to be future-fit or relevant, we ought to view our teaching and learning, our research strategies, our engagements, and institutional culture as unavoidably entangled with human society, in which we continue to evolve as we serve them,” she said.

Professor Meyiwa identified ethical leadership grounded in good governance and accountability, putting people before culture, student-centred leadership, and building an institutional culture that serves surrounding communities as key priorities for her tenure.

Students, she said, remain at the centre of the University’s work.

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“My students are at the centre of everything,” she said, emphasising the importance of producing graduates who demonstrate excellence, integrity, empathy and an appreciation of diversity.

She highlighted digital innovation, environmental sustainability, food security, biodiversity conservation, and research excellence with global impact among the areas requiring continued attention.

“A University must address the social and economic challenges facing South Africa and the continent through knowledge, innovation, partnerships and meaningful engagement. Our goal is to equip graduates not only for today’s jobs, but to drive Africa’s innovation and compete confidently on the global stage,” she said.

Professor Meyiwa also introduced the concept of Asicocisane – Asixoxeni, centred on dialogue, integrity and humane disagreement, as a platform for collaboration and engagement that will inform her leadership and institutional culture over the next four years.

“I believe in dialogues that are built on integrity to disagree humanely, to collaborate, to differ, to be, to become and to adapt ultimately,” she said.

She emphasised that the University’s teaching, learning and research must remain closely connected to the society it serves and responsive to the development needs of Mpumalanga, South Africa and the continent.

A Collective Commitment to UMP’s Future

Congratulatory messages reflected the expectations placed on universities and on Professor Meyiwa as she begins her tenure.

Honourable Tebogo Letsie, Chairperson of the Portfolio Committee on Higher Education and Training, highlighted the role of universities in South Africa’s development.

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“Universities are not merely institutions that award qualifications; they are places where ideas are debated, future leaders are developed, scientific discoveries are made, innovation is nurtured, and the social and economic future of our nation is shaped,” he said.

He described Professor Meyiwa as a distinguished academic and leader with a record of academic excellence, institutional leadership, research innovation and public service.

Mpumalanga Premier, Honourable Mandla Ndlovu, reaffirmed the Provincial Government’s commitment to working with UMP to address the social and economic challenges facing the province. He described UMP as a beacon of hope and highlighted its role in entrepreneurship, innovation, lifelong learning and economic development.

On behalf of Senate, Deputy Vice Chancellor: Teaching and Learning, Professor Mashudu Davhana-Maselesele, described Professor Meyiwa’s appointment as an important moment in UMP’s continued development.

“Your appointment marks not only the beginning of a new chapter in your leadership, but an important moment for us that shows continued development and advancement of UMP. You have made us proud as women,” she said.

Representing UMP Management, Deputy Vice Chancellor: Postgraduate Studies, Engagement and Planning, Professor Moses Mbewe, described Professor Meyiwa as “the trusted one” and expressed confidence in her leadership.

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“You are the trusted one, Prof. You are the trusted one with exceptional leadership. You are the trusted one with leadership of an exceptional team,” said Professor Mbewe.

Deputy Chairperson of Council, Ms Nqabisa Ravele, reaffirmed Council’s commitment to supporting Professor Meyiwa.

“We are confident that your leadership will continue to shape the University of Mpumalanga into a beacon of innovation, inclusivity and academic excellence,” she said.

NEHAWU Chairperson, Mr Sifiso Soko, and National Teacher Education Union Chairperson, Mr Phetelo Semosa, wished Professor Meyiwa wisdom, strength and resilience, emphasising the importance of collective effort, fairness, transparency, accountability and meaningful engagement.

Deputy President of the Student Representative Council, Mr Nhlanhla Maluleka, described the inauguration as a historic milestone for Professor Meyiwa and the wider UMP community.

“We have seen your leadership, and we are confident that under your leadership, the university will continue to work in excellence, transformation, and student-centred development,” he said.

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President of Convocation, Mr Sipho Mogopudi, offered a reflection on the responsibilities of leadership, reminding Professor Meyiwa that the real test begins beyond the inauguration.

“The test doesn’t begin now as we congratulate you, but tomorrow as you start your work. Whenever you are met with temptation, trials and tribulations, remember it is only then that your character gets to be tested,” he said.

Professor Meyiwa’s inauguration affirmed a shared commitment by Council, Senate, management, staff, students, government and the University’s broader stakeholder community to work collectively towards the advancement of UMP.

Her inaugural address set out a leadership vision focused on students, people, ethical governance, meaningful engagement and a University that remains responsive to the needs of society. As UMP continues to grow, these priorities will shape its contribution through knowledge, research, innovation and partnerships, while strengthening its role as a future-fit African university.

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

The South African Chemical Institute plays a leading role in promoting professional competence, scientific integrity, and international collaboration while advancing diversity, inclusivity, and equity within the chemical sciences.

The Institute is committed to supporting excellence in chemical sciences across academic, industrial, and government institutions while strengthening the profession through credible scientific research and innovation.

"I am grateful for the trust placed in me and look forward to working with colleagues to strengthen chemistry, support the next generation of scientists, and advance the impact of our profession," said Dr Khanyile.

Dr Khanyile's research focuses on nanotechnology, green chemistry, environmental remediation, and water treatment applications. She is particularly interested in developing materials that can improve everyday life.

Her PhD research focused on developing colourimetric sensors using gold nanoparticles hosted in electrospun nanofibres to detect dopamine, a neurotransmitter associated with neurological disorders such as Parkinson's disease, Alzheimer's disease, and schizophrenia.

In addition to her research activities, Dr Khanyile has held several leadership positions at UMP. She serves as Chairperson of the Faculty Teaching and Learning Committee in the Faculty of Agriculture and Natural Sciences, represents the School of Chemical and Physical Sciences on several committees, including the Faculty Postgraduates Committee and the Faculty Research & Innovation Committee, and leads the Nanomaterial Research Group.

An accomplished academic, researcher, and mentor with more than a decade of experience in higher education, Dr Khanyile has led large undergraduate programmes and coordinated chemistry modules across multiple programmes in three Schools.

She also encourages more young women to pursue careers in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM), emphasising that they have the same opportunities as their male counterparts to make meaningful contributions to the field.

Dr Khanyile believes that women in leadership positions should support one another and work together to strengthen organisations and create opportunities for future generations.

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Story and picture supplied. Copyright © UMP.

Held under the theme Resilience During Your Most Challenging Moments: Let’s Engage, the celebrations brought together women from across the University to reflect on the challenges women face and explore practical ways of strengthening their mental, emotional, physical and financial wellbeing.

The programme included discussions on mental health, workplace wellness, legal matters, financial planning and personal resilience, providing an opportunity for women from different professional backgrounds to share perspectives and experiences.

UMP Vice-Chancellor and Principal Professor Thenjiwe Meyiwa said resilience should not be understood as having to remain strong or endure difficulties alone.

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“Resilience does not mean that we are strong all the time. We should allow ourselves to acknowledge when we are not okay,” she said.

Professor Meyiwa encouraged women to draw strength from their support networks, including family, friends and trusted colleagues, particularly during difficult periods.

“Being a strong woman does not mean carrying all the burdens alone,” she said, emphasising the importance of reaching out rather than withdrawing when facing challenges.

She also encouraged women to practise self-care and recognise that their own wellbeing deserves attention, particularly when they are balancing responsibilities at work, in their families and in their communities.

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“Radical self-care is necessary,” she said, highlighting the importance of making time to rest, meditate, pursue hobbies and seek professional assistance when needed.

Setting boundaries, she added, was an essential part of protecting one’s wellbeing.

“‘No’ is a complete sentence,” she said, encouraging women to recognise their limits rather than becoming overwhelmed by trying to meet every demand placed on them.

The Women’s Month programme extended beyond discussion of mental health, addressing several areas that can affect women’s ability to cope with challenging circumstances.

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Panel discussions explored physical and mental wellbeing, workplace pressures, legal protection and financial resilience. Participants were encouraged to delegate responsibilities, make time for activities outside work and address emotional burdens associated with past experiences, relationships and difficult situations.

The conversations reinforced the importance of seeking support and making informed decisions during challenging periods, while recognising that resilience can take different forms.

For UMP women, the celebrations provided a space to reflect, engage with one another and consider practical ways of protecting their wellbeing while continuing to navigate their responsibilities at work, at home and in their communities.

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

South Africa continues to face challenges related to food security, food safety, and sustainable agricultural production. According to Dr Stempa, research plays a critical role in developing practical solutions that improve lives and strengthen communities.

As a researcher and lecturer, she supervises postgraduate students, develops innovative teaching approaches, and collaborates with researchers and industry partners to ensure that academic work translates into practical outcomes.

Her research focuses on meat science, animal welfare, food safety, and sustainable livestock production. Through her work, she aims to improve agricultural productivity, strengthen food systems, and support emerging and smallholder farmers in South Africa.

“I am particularly passionate about research that can help strengthen food systems while supporting farmers and protecting consumers,” she says.

Agriculture Offers Diverse Opportunities for Women

Dr Stempa says agriculture has evolved far beyond traditional farming and now encompasses fields such as biotechnology, food safety, climate resilience, innovation, entrepreneurship, and animal welfare.

She believes these developments have created opportunities to make meaningful contributions across the sector, and encourages young women to pursue their ambitions and remain committed to their goals, even when faced with challenges.

“As a woman, you must never limit your ambitions. I am standing where I am today because I believed that my dreams were valid, even when the journey was difficult. If I can do it, many other young girls can too.

There will be moments when you question yourself, but don't give up. Find mentors, ask questions, work hard, and never stop learning.”

In August 2026, Dr Stempa was recognised by the Mail & Guardian as one of the Young South Africans Under 200 in the Agriculture and Rural Development category.

She says the recognition reminded her of her own journey as the first graduate in her family.

“This moment reminds me of my humble background as the first graduate in my family and that your beginnings do not determine your future. 

It takes me back to my academic journey, from being a student financially supported by NSFAS and National Research Foundation (NRF) funding to becoming the lecturer, researcher, and student mentor I am today," she says.

Dr Stempa is currently involved in several research projects aimed at improving food safety, animal health, and sustainable livestock production in South Africa.

“One of the most rewarding parts of my career is mentoring young scientists and seeing them grow into confident researchers who will shape the future of agriculture. I hope to continue building meaningful collaborations, mentoring young researchers, and ensuring that science makes a real difference beyond the university.”

She hopes that her story will inspire young people, particularly those from rural communities, to believe in their potential and pursue their aspirations.

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Story by Lisa Thabethe. Picture supplied. Copyright © UMP.

The call was made during the 2026 Women in Housing Symposium, hosted at the University of Mpumalanga (UMP) Mbombela Campus from 18 to 21 August 2026. Held in partnership with University Housing Officers–International Southern African Chapter (ACUHO-I SAC), the symposium was themed From Empowerment to Impact: Women Transforming Housing Systems; She Grows, She Glows: Leading Change, Shaping Futures.

The four-day symposium brought together women from across the housing sector to share knowledge, strengthen professional networks and explore how women’s leadership can contribute to supportive and inclusive student housing environments.

ACUHO-I SAC President Ms Jay Pillay of Rhodes University said the symposium was particularly significant as the Association celebrates its 20th anniversary.

“Student housing is far more than the provision of accommodation. It is a space where students discover community, develop leadership, build resilience, and find a sense of belonging.

“These transformative experiences are made possible by dedicated housing professionals, many of them women, whose compassion, expertise, and vision have helped shape residence life across the region. Their leadership shows that creating a home away from home requires more than facilities; it requires people who lead with purpose, empathy, and excellence,” she said.

Ms Pillay said the Association’s two-decade legacy had been built through professional development, collaboration, research and strengthening institutional practice across Southern Africa.

UMP Vice-Chancellor and Principal Professor Thenjiwe Meyiwa emphasised the need for women to move beyond empowerment towards meaningful impact by taking up leadership positions and helping to transform the systems in which they operate.

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She encouraged women not only to demand a seat at the table, but also to have the courage to redesign the table so that diverse voices are heard and represented.

“Empowerment must translate into impact. It must create opportunities for women to lead, influence and transform systems. Leadership is about creating spaces where people feel that they belong, where they are supported and where they can grow,” she said.

Professor Meyiwa also encouraged delegates to embrace continuous learning, have difficult conversations, learn from failure, prioritise self-care and support others.

“Student housing extends beyond providing accommodation. Residences are spaces where students develop their identities, confidence and resilience, making the work of housing professionals central to the broader student experience,” she said.

Businesswoman and Executive Chairperson of Buscor (Pty) Ltd Dr Norah Fakude highlighted the role of student residences in fostering personal growth, identity, confidence, resilience and belonging.

She challenged conventional views of leadership, saying it was not defined by titles or authority, but by the ability to listen, serve, create safe spaces and bring about meaningful change.

“True leadership is characterised by listening, inclusive policy-making and creating safe spaces for students to dream,” she said.

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Dr Fakude called on women to question existing systems and use their voices and experiences to reshape structures that may not have adequately considered women’s perspectives.

“There is a generational responsibility to maintain the doors opened by previous movements,” she said, referring to the progress achieved by earlier generations of women, including those who participated in the historic 1956 Women’s March.

UMP Director of Student Housing Dr Nomvula Twaise said the symposium celebrated women’s vision, resilience and leadership in creating inclusive communities and advancing innovation in student housing.

“What stood out most was how quickly professional dialogue turned into genuine solidarity, mentorship offered freely, encouragement shared generously, and stories that reminded us we are never alone in this work,” she said.

Dr Twaise said the network demonstrated that women’s work in student housing extended beyond individual institutions to building a community in which women could support one another and lead with courage and compassion.

Delegates also explored challenges limiting equitable leadership opportunities and the role of mentorship in shaping the next era of student housing.

Through dialogue, mentorship and collaboration, the symposium encouraged women to move from empowerment to meaningful impact, creating lasting opportunities and stronger communities for future generations.

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

Dr Nduku believes that the future of agriculture will depend on young people who can develop practical solutions to challenges such as food security and environmental sustainability.

Her contribution to the sector was recently recognised when she was named among the Mail & Guardian Young 200 South Africans in the Agriculture and Rural Development category, which celebrates young leaders who are advancing sustainable farming, strengthening food security and promoting rural development.

"The acknowledgement is a meaningful affirmation of the work I have been doing in agriculture, particularly in animal production science, research, teaching and learning. It is not only about where I am in my career, but also about the potential to make a broader impact," she says.

As an academic and researcher in animal science, Dr Nduku says her work extends beyond producing knowledge.

"My goal is to contribute to sustainable systems, improve livestock production, support farmers and inspire the next generation of agricultural professionals,” she says, adding that the recognition has reinforced the important role that young people can play in shaping the future of the agricultural sector.

"Being recognised at this stage of my career reminds me that young people have an important role to play in shaping the future of agriculture. It gives me greater motivation to continue building my profile and mentoring students to do the same. It is especially encouraging because agriculture is such a critical sector for South Africa, yet the contributions of young professionals in the field are not always visible."

Dr Nduku's research focuses on the impact of poultry production factors and nutrition on bird health, performance and food safety, with a particular emphasis on promoting the healthy and safe production of poultry meat and eggs.

Her work explores sustainable livestock production and poultry nutrition, including the use of functional feed additives as possible alternatives to conventional antibiotic growth promoters.

"I am particularly interested in approaches that promote gut health, improve feed efficiency and contribute to more sustainable poultry production," she explains.

Dr Nduku is also involved in research investigating water hyacinth, an invasive aquatic weed, as a potential feed resource for poultry.

"I am involved in research evaluating water hyacinth as a potential functional feed resource for poultry, looking at its nutritional value, safety, effects on bird performance and the environmental implications. The project speaks to an important challenge: how we can turn an environmental problem into a potential agricultural resource while ensuring animal and human safety."

Beyond her research activities, she remains committed to teaching and mentoring students in animal production.

"Developing the next generation of agricultural scientists is just as important as the research itself,” she says. 

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Story by Lisa Thabethe. Picture supplied. Copyright © UMP.

As a child, Ms Zikhali experienced discrimination that left a lasting impact on her self-esteem. In Grade 3, she was publicly mocked by a teacher because of her dark complexion, and this led her to speak openly about colourism.

“I had never been targeted for my skin colour in primary school before, and hearing that from an authority figure took a piece of my innocence away,” she says.

The experience continued into high school, where she attended an all-girls boarding school. During her first year, she was repeatedly bullied because of her appearance and was made to feel that her complexion made her less attractive.

“I grew to hate being dark. I could not comprehend why my complexion made me a target,” she says.

Despite the emotional challenges, Ms Zikhali remained committed to her studies. With the support of her classmates in the 2010 Grade 8A3 class, she found the confidence to stand up for herself and embrace her identity.

That turning point inspired her to adopt the name Melanin, which has since become synonymous with her advocacy work.

Today, through her social media platform, she shares her experiences while encouraging dark-skinned women to embrace their identity and recognise the value of education as a tool for personal growth and empowerment.

Her academic journey has developed into a commitment to community empowerment and sustainable development, particularly in rural and under-resourced communities.

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As a PhD candidate in Development Studies at UMP, Ms Zikhali is focused on translating research into practical development strategies that can improve people's lives.

Her studies have also created opportunities beyond the classroom.

Through the UMP Centre for Entrepreneurship and Rapid Incubator, she represented the University at the Intra Africa 2063 competition in Egypt. The experience marked her first international trip and culminated in a significant achievement when she and her team secured first place.

“Walking onto that international stage, I realised that the boundaries of my upbringing could no longer contain the magnitude of my destiny,” she says.

Behind her academic achievements is a story shaped by perseverance and the sacrifices of her family, particularly her mother, who worked tirelessly to provide for her children.

“My mother poured everything she had into us. She gave us her time, her energy and her youth, ensuring that we had what we needed.”

Today, Ms Zikhali continues to build on that foundation through her research, advocacy and entrepreneurship. Her journey reflects the transformative role of education and her determination to use her experiences to create meaningful change for others.

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Story by Cleopatra Makhaga. Pictures supplied. Copyright © UMP.

In an interview on the Sunday World podcast, Professor Meyiwa discussed her journey in higher education, UMP’s potential as a young African university, student success, innovation, good governance and the importance of preparing graduates to become change agents.

It wasn't planned. I never thought of being a manager. My first love is teaching, and my second love is research, so I'm more a researcher than an administrator.

But the two sides are connected. To be an administrator who can make an impact, you need to understand what other administrators do and be alive to your context. Ultimately, people should be able to look back and say, “That was the time that we had transformation.”

I'm very fortunate to have a good grounding in a university that has been built from scratch. It has very good infrastructure and a strong grounding in terms of values and people who are eager.

Having been to five other universities, I can say with confidence that our staff are very young, hungry and energetic. Because it is a new university, it has youth, energy and a sense that we can do things boldly because we are growing.

It meets very strongly. I define UMP as an African university, and our geographical position is very important. Eswatini and Mozambique are close, as are the borders with other South African provinces.

We need to be rooted in Mpumalanga, speak to and be alive to the challenges of the province, while focusing on our neighbours and the continent. At the same time, we need a global focus and to be known as a university making a contribution beyond our immediate surroundings.

It is the university sector that should be prepared for the so-called unprepared students. At UMP, we have programmes that support students when they are at risk of falling behind. We have mentors and tutors, in addition to lecturers, professors and laboratory support.

Our throughput rate is close to 80%, which is very good for a growing university. But it is also important to recognise the knowledge that students bring with them. Each student who walks onto the university campus has brought knowledge, and we need to build on that knowledge rather than treating students as empty cups.

We need to prepare students not only to become employees but also to become entrepreneurs.

We offer entrepreneurship programmes, operate an entrepreneurship hub to incubate ideas, and have established a Technology Transfer Office. We also launched the Centre for Continuing Learning and Executive Education to respond to the needs of the working world.

We don't simply decide what people should learn. We ask organisations about their “pain points” – what they are experiencing and what they want to see changed – and develop programmes around those needs.

We need to balance where we are and where we want to go without disrupting our processes so much that we lose people.

Technology is important, but people remain very important. Systems are made by people, broken by people and can be reorganised by people.

We are working with companies on AI mastery so that students and staff can do work that may previously have taken a day in a few hours. We have also signed memoranda of understanding to ensure that UMP does not fall behind.

We want to respond to the needs of our communities and of Mpumalanga. We want to be distinct by being a one-stop shop for our communities and government.

When municipalities or government have problems they need to solve, we want them to know that UMP can assist. If there is a beautiful policy gathering dust because it is not being implemented and changing people's lives, we want to help make it implementable.

I've been a registrar and, through my experience, a compliance officer. Good governance is therefore central to my leadership.

My philosophy is simple: “You just do the right thing every day without blinking and for the benefit of the student and for the benefit of the university.”

Accountability is not merely something we talk about. I tell my students and staff: “Hold me accountable because I am going to hold you accountable.”

I would like people to remember me as somebody who cared, but who got governance straightened up, who got people to account, but who was equally very compassionate.

I want us to be able to look back and say that during that tenure we transformed not only the tangibles but the University's value system – that we became more ethically astute in the way we manage our resources.

I'm fortunate to have inherited a university whose infrastructure has been delivered on time, within budget and to a high standard. The opportunity now is to strengthen the culture around it.

It is possible, but it will not happen by default. It will happen by intentionality. It will happen through networking and identifying mentors – not necessarily one, but several people you can learn from. It is about holding hands, learning outside your usual pigeonhole and seeking examples that can inspire you. 

Hold your head up high, woman. Hold your head up high, girl. It is possible. It starts in your mind, but it also requires collaboration with other people and having a voice that says: “I want to be counted."

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For the full interview, please visit https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QJQxdqzWGbI&t=2169s 

The second-year Bachelor of Development Studies student is a poet, opera singer, motivational speaker and advocate for mental health and quality education. An aspiring town planner, Ms Ndlovu believes that every person deserves the opportunity to pursue their dreams, regardless of their circumstances.

Her name, Bohlari, means wisdom, a value she strives to embody in both her academic and personal life. “I am working tirelessly to follow it,” she says.

Her passion for the performing arts recently earned her a place on one of UMP's most significant stages when she was selected to prepare and perform a poem in honour of Professor Thenjiwe Meyiwa during her formal inauguration as UMP Vice-Chancellor and Principal.

Instead of presenting a conventional tribute, Ms Ndlovu carefully researched Professor Meyiwa's academic journey, leadership philosophy and commitment to human development and social justice.

“I knew that a momentous occasion like this required more than just a generic tribute. It demanded something that truly captured the unique spirit and weight of her leadership,” she says.

Although she initially felt nervous, the positive response to her performance gave her renewed confidence.

“For me, that moment healed the inner child in me that never thought my talent would put me on bigger stages like that,” she reflects, noting that the experience also reinforced the importance of preparation.

“There is a profound difference between feeling nervous and feeling unprepared. Because I had grounded myself so deeply in the preparation process, studying Professor Meyiwa's vision and listening to the campus community, I had a solid foundation to stand on,” she says.

Her love for the performing arts began long before she arrived at UMP. In 2025, she successfully auditioned for the UMP Choir as a first-year student, combining her passion for opera with her commitment to campus life.

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Ms Ndlovu is also an active member of the UMP Debate Society and the UMP Models Society, where she currently serves as Miss University of Mpumalanga Queen 2026.

Through this role, she hopes to encourage fellow students, particularly young women, to believe in themselves and pursue opportunities beyond their comfort zones.

“For me, it is about empowering and enriching students on campus, especially women, to firmly believe in themselves and to form a sisterhood that allows them to dream beyond their comfort zone.”

Ms Ndlovu credits her family with helping her develop the confidence to pursue her interests. From primary school through to high school, her parents and sisters encouraged her to participate in debates, speeches, poetry competitions and other extracurricular activities. Her father, who is partially sighted, taught her valuable lessons about courage and self-expression.

“He relentlessly taught me my clan names and would encourage me to perform at our family events and ceremonies. That taught me the skill of articulation and courage, and I am grateful for that,” she says.

Her academic journey at UMP has also been one of growth. While adjusting to university life initially felt overwhelming, she quickly recognised the importance of discipline and effective time management.

“I believe entertainment actually helps my academics because it keeps me motivated and gives me a way to relieve stress,” she says.

Her talents have also created opportunities beyond the university. She regularly receives bookings for poetry performances, motivational speaking engagements and Master of Ceremonies duties, providing her with an additional source of income.

As Miss University of Mpumalanga Queen 2026, she also participates in events that encourage young girls to pursue their ambitions and draw inspiration from people who have overcome challenges.

For Ms Ndlovu, every opportunity comes with a responsibility to represent herself and UMP with pride.

As South Africa celebrates Women's Month, her story highlights the importance of creating spaces where young women can discover their voices, develop their talents and use their abilities to contribute meaningfully to society.

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Story by Cleopatra Makhaga. Pictures supplied. Copyright © UMP.

The Mbombela Open Day was held on 1 August 2026, followed by the Siyabuswa event on 12 August. The events formed part of UMP’s engagement with prospective students and communities, providing learners with an opportunity to experience the University environment first-hand.

Marketing Officer Kealeboga Marole said the Open Days aimed to showcase UMP’s academic programmes and encourage prospective students to apply.

Learners were introduced to UMP’s programmes and engaged with academics about admission requirements. They also toured key facilities, including the library, residences, lecture halls, laboratories and computer laboratories.

Information sessions covered funding opportunities, student accommodation and the National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS), giving learners an overview of the support available to students.

For Grade 12 learner Olwethu Carol Mahlalela from Thembeka Secondary School, the Open Day provided valuable insight into opportunities available at UMP.

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“I am happy for the opportunity to be brought to the Open Day. I found out that if you want an opportunity to go abroad, the University of Mpumalanga is one of the best places to go,” she said.

Ms Mahlalela also learned about the Vice-Chancellor’s Scholarship and said the opportunities available at UMP had increased her interest in studying Agricultural Sciences.

“I am really excited to study at UMP and pursue Agricultural Sciences,” she said.

Another Grade 12 learner, Shelled Fakude from Busisiwe High School, said she was encouraged by UMP’s focus on innovation and creativity. She expressed an interest in Physical Science and Geography.

“I like the environment here because there are many opportunities for students. The University encourages innovation and gives students a chance to develop their creative minds through different projects. I believe UMP is a place where students can achieve their dreams,” she said.

The Open Days enabled learners to engage directly with UMP staff, explore campus facilities and learn more about academic programmes and student support.

Applications for the 2027 academic year are open and will close on 30 November 2026. Prospective students are encouraged to explore UMP’s programmes and apply for admission.

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

As an ATSP Fellow in the School of Biology and Environmental Sciences, Ms Mamabolo has taken on responsibilities in teaching, supervision, research, mentorship and leadership.

Before becoming an Associate Lecturer, she served as a mentor and tutor. She is also involved in the First-Year Experience Programme and serves on the School Research and Engagement committees.

Her appointment is another milestone in an academic journey that began at UMP, where she distinguished herself as an outstanding Environmental Science and Geography student.

She graduated cum laude, obtaining 12 distinctions out of 19 modules, and received the Best Initial Degree Award at UMP's 2022 Academic Excellence Awards Ceremony. In October 2024, she became the first ATSP Fellow and Associate Lecturer in the School of Biology and Environmental Sciences.

For Ms Mamabolo, academic achievement is not an end in itself, but a platform from which she can contribute to the development of others.

Her commitment to creating opportunities for young people was strengthened by her participation in Seamester VII, South Africa's Class Afloat programme aboard the SA Agulhas II in June 2024.

The programme exposed her to oceanographic sampling, laboratory operations and multidisciplinary scientific collaboration involving South African and international students.

“The experience broadened my understanding of scientific research and strengthened my belief in the importance of creating opportunities for young people, particularly young women, to gain exposure to fields where they may not always see themselves represented,” she explains.

The experience later translated into action when she encouraged a young Black female Honours student, Ms Lungisile Zulu, to apply for the programme. Zulu was successfully accepted into the 2026 cohort.

For Ms Mamabolo, mentorship is therefore not simply about giving advice. It is about opening doors and helping others recognise opportunities they may not have considered possible.

Her interest in developing future researchers has also led to research supervision. In 2025, she co-supervised an Honours research project investigating pollutants in surface waters in a coal mining region in Emalahleni.

Ms Mamabolo's commitment to environmental science extends into her research. In 2026, she presented her study, Water Quality and Macroinvertebrate Response to Wastewater Effluent in the White River, South Africa, at the Water Institute of Southern Africa (WISA) conference in Cape Town.

“These platforms have allowed me to share my work with academics and professionals in the water management sector while gaining valuable exposure to different perspectives and approaches to environmental challenges,” she says.

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“For me, research is not confined to laboratories, classrooms or academic publications. It is also about creating opportunities to exchange knowledge and engage with researchers and professionals from different disciplines.”

She is currently pursuing a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Environmental Science under the supervision of Dr A. N. Shabalala from UMP and Professor J. N. Edokpayi from the University of Venda.

Her research focuses on per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), a group of persistent emerging contaminants, and explores methods for their sequestration in water bodies.

Through the research, she aims to contribute to the limited body of knowledge on PFAS in South Africa, particularly in Mpumalanga, while supporting improved water resource management and informed decision-making.

Ms Mamabolo's belief in the value of exposure also extends beyond academia.

Her passion for travel began at the age of 17 when she participated in the Freundeskreis für Südafrika Youth Exchange Programme between Germany and South Africa in 2017.

The experience inspired her to establish Solo Frengy, a travel brand that seeks to create meaningful travel and adventure experiences for young people.

The brand recently completed its first international trip to Mozambique, where participants explored the country's food and culture and connected with local communities.

“My vision is to grow Solo Frengy into a platform that brings travel, education and mentorship together,” she says.

She hopes to create opportunities for South African young people to explore the world while welcoming international young people to experience South Africa's diverse cultures, food and communities.

From an award-winning UMP student to an emerging academic, researcher, mentor and entrepreneur, Mamabolo's journey demonstrates how opportunities can extend beyond the individual.

As she continues her PhD and develops her academic career, she remains committed to using science, education and mentorship to create opportunities for others.

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Story by Cleopatra Makhaga. Pictures supplied. Copyright © UMP.

The awards – Best Waste Management Institution, Best Exhibition and Green Institution of the Year (Newcomer) – recognise the University’s student-led innovation and commitment to sustainability.

The UMP Green Campus Initiative (GCI) was established in 2025 under the leadership of the Student Housing Unit and the guidance of Director of Student Housing, Dr Nomvula Twaise.

Held under the theme Advocacy & Sustainability: Smart Campuses for the Future, the conference brought together student leaders, housing professionals and researchers from across the SADC region.

UMP showcased three student-led innovations: Green-Flow Bin, a smart waste management system; Botanical Cube, a vertical garden that repurposes plastic waste while promoting food security; and Hydroflora, a smart farming solution that uses sensor technology to improve plant health and water management.

GCI Chairperson, Ms Kurhula Khoza, said the conference was a significant moment for the initiative and for women in sustainability leadership.

“It was inspiring to attend a conference that celebrated not only environmental sustainability but also the women leading this movement,” she said.

“Seeing ACUHO-I-SAC celebrate its first female President, Ms Jay Pillay, made me especially proud to represent UMP as the first Chairperson of our Green Campus Initiative. It reminded me that women have an important role to play in shaping a more sustainable future.”

UMP delegates also participated in a panel discussion on Smart Campuses for the Future, exploring what the concept means for South African universities.

The programme included keynote addresses, workshops and practical learning sessions. Dr Sibusiwe Hlela from the Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment addressed delegates on cultivating green skills.

Delegates also visited the Anglo American Digital Dome to explore how technology and innovation can contribute to a more sustainable future.

For a GCI chapter established just over a year ago, the three awards mark an important milestone in UMP’s sustainability journey and highlight the potential of student-led initiatives to contribute to greener campuses.

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Invited by the Department of Higher Education and Training (DHET), Dr Bhuda was one of only three South African delegates selected to present at the conference, which was hosted virtually from India.

The BRICS Network University brings together universities from Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa to promote cooperation in higher education, research and academic mobility. Its conferences and thematic activities give scholars and policymakers opportunities to exchange perspectives on shared priorities, including the preservation and promotion of Indigenous Knowledge Systems (IKS).

The Culture and Heritage Studies lecturer brought a South African perspective informed by decolonial research methodologies and African epistemologies, describing her selection as both an honour and a responsibility.

“Being chosen as one of three South African delegates recognises years of commitment to community-engaged research and the preservation of Indigenous Knowledge Systems.

It also provides a unique platform to represent the University of Mpumalanga and our region’s perspectives at an international level, while creating opportunities for collaborative research, funding and policy influence that can strengthen Indigenous Knowledge work in South Africa.”

Her presentation, titled South Africa: Mapping, Identification and Systematic Documentation of Indigenous Knowledge, contributed to discussions on strengthening collaboration among BRICS countries in recognising, documenting and protecting Indigenous Knowledge through ethical and community-centred approaches.

“Mapping and documenting Indigenous Knowledge should not be treated simply as a technical exercise, but as an ethical and political process that places Indigenous and local communities at its centre,” she said, emphasising that communities should be recognised as the primary custodians of their knowledge.

“Documentation initiatives must avoid repeating historical practices in which knowledge was extracted without acknowledging community ownership or authority.

The critical questions are not only what we document and how we document it, but also for whom the knowledge is documented and under whose authority that documentation takes place. Indigenous communities must remain the primary knowledge holders and decision-makers throughout the process.”

Building International Research Partnerships

Conference discussions highlighted the value of community-led digital repositories, stronger legal protection for traditional knowledge holders, collaboration among universities, government and Indigenous organisations, and culturally appropriate consent and benefit-sharing mechanisms.

Dr Bhuda noted that delegates also shared approaches that combine Indigenous Knowledge protocols with digital technologies to improve accessibility while protecting knowledge and supporting its long-term sustainability.

“The conference could create opportunities for UMP to strengthen its international partnerships and research profile through research collaborations, student and staff exchanges, and joint funding proposals focused on Indigenous Knowledge Systems and African epistemologies.

It can catalyse formal research partnerships, student and staff exchanges, and joint funding proposals focused on Indigenous Knowledge Systems and African epistemologies. For our students, it opens opportunities for collaborative fieldwork, internships and exposure to comparative research methodologies, while helping the University strengthen community engagement, research and curriculum development,” she said.

Dr Bhuda’s participation at the conference highlights UMP’s contribution to international research discussions on Indigenous Knowledge and its commitment to scholarship that recognises Indigenous Knowledge Systems as an important resource for sustainable development, innovation and social transformation.

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Story by Cleopatra Makhaga. Picture supplied. Copyright © UMP.

The students graduated during an official ceremony on 31 July 2026 and returned to South Africa on 01 August 2026 after completing the intensive one-month international academic programme.

Representing UMP were Bonginkosi Innocent Hlatshwayo, a PhD candidate; Cebolenkosi Michael Mkhize, a Master's student; Molatela Merriam Mamabolo, a third-year Education student; and Karabo Muthadi, a second-year Education student.

The students received Fulda International Summer School Certificates in recognition of their successful completion of the programme, which brought together participants from universities around the world.

The Summer School combined academic activities with cultural experiences, allowing students to participate in research workshops, innovation and entrepreneurship sessions, collaborative learning projects, German language classes, and intercultural activities. The programme also included visits to historical landmarks and cultural sites across Germany.

For Karabo Muthadi, the experience extended far beyond academic learning. "Every day was an opportunity to learn something new. We learned about the German language and culture while interacting with students from many different countries. 

Adjusting to the food was probably our biggest challenge – we certainly missed our pap – but that became part of the adventure. The experience opened my eyes to international collaboration and showed me how much we can learn from people with different backgrounds and perspectives."

He added that the programme inspired him to pursue greater international research collaboration and strengthened his confidence as a young scholar.

Third-year Education student Molatela Merriam Mamabolo described the experience as transformative, and said: "This programme has prepared me for my future studies, especially the research component of my fourth year.

I learned about research methods, different cultures, the German language and global perspectives on education. Every day brought a new learning opportunity."

One of the highlights of the programme for Mamabolo was visiting the Berlin Wall.

"Standing at the Berlin Wall made history come alive. It reminded me of what I learned about Germany and Europe, but seeing it in person was something completely different. I also experienced many firsts – I visited a Catholic church for the first time, went on a boat cruise, and explored a zoo. Those experiences helped me appreciate different cultures and ways of life. I am deeply grateful for this opportunity."

The students agreed that the Summer School strengthened their leadership abilities, improved their intercultural communication skills, expanded their international networks, and broadened their understanding of the role young graduates can play in addressing global challenges.

Their successful completion of the programme reflects UMP's commitment to producing graduates who are globally engaged, socially responsible, and academically competitive.

As they return to campus, the students bring back valuable international experience, enhanced research skills, new professional networks, and a deeper appreciation of cultural diversity that will continue to shape their academic and professional journeys. Their achievements also highlight the value of international education and encourage other UMP students to pursue opportunities that extend learning beyond national borders.

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Story and picture supplied. Copyright © UMP.