The purpose of the visit to the Mbombela campus was for the MEC to show support for the university’s Vice Chancellor, Professor Thoko Mayekiso, to develop relations, and to start building on future collaborations that will help the university succeed for generations to come.
The University of Mpumalanga Vice-Chancellor Professor Thoko Mayekiso and her management team hosted the MEC and his delegation. Professor Mayekiso presented the university’s journey and the success the institution has achieved since its inception – from increasing student intake numbers to adding more study programmes, as well as the formidable partnerships the university has formed with local and international stakeholders.
UMP started with only six programmes and today offers 26, five of which were added this year. The Vice Chancellor also noted that UMP has registered almost 87% of students from the province and majority of the registered students are female. This growth does not happen in isolation, and partnerships are vital. As can be seen and proven through the university’s healthy relationship with provincial government.
The university management with the MEC of Education, Mr Bonakele Majuba and the Mpumalanga Department of Education delegates.
The Mpumalanga Provincial Government has over the years contributed to the growth of the university, contributing 77% of its Funza Lushaka Bursary allocations to the foundation students studying Bachelor of Education (BeD), teaching in SiSwati and IsiNdebele indigenous languages and later Sepedi.
MEC Mr Bonakele Majuba said: “The Mpumalanga Department of Education has contributed to the growth of the university through its Fundza Lushaka Bursary Aid. More bursaries are allocated to students pursuing programmes that are aligned with the Mpumalanga Economic Growth Path.
He further added that the department is committed to supporting the university in any which way possible. “My key personal interest is in teacher development. There is still more to be done in this area. This visit is to confirm our availability at the department and to say that – you should not feel alone in this enormous journey we have undertaken to grow this university.”
He added that for the first time Mpumalanga Province recorded 47% candidates who met the requirements to undertake bachelor studies, which is why more than 85% of students have registered at UMP.
The MEC expressed his appreciation and gratitude to the Vice Chancellor for the incredible progress she has shown in building the university, in demonstrating excellent leadership and in steering the university towards becoming a world-class institution.
“I would like to appreciate the wonderful job you have done by admitting more students from our province. I am encouraged by the work that has gone into making UMP the great institution it is. The proximity of our offices must enable us to enhance all progressive collaborations. We are a stone’s throw away therefor we can close ranks from time to time for mutual benefit.”
The visit was concluded with a tour, led by Professor Mayekiso, of the university’s iconic buildings, the state-of-the art libray and information services centre, the laboratories, on-campus accommodation and other facilities.
@ Story by Cleopatra Makhaga. Pictures @Chrisplphoto