The agreement establishes a practical framework for collaboration, including shared access to specialised laboratories and testing equipment, as well as the development of targeted skills programmes, internships, and capacity-building initiatives. These interventions are designed to strengthen industry-relevant expertise and support the transfer and commercial application of research.

Through this partnership, both institutions aim to strengthen graduate readiness and build a pipeline of skills aligned to industry needs, while advancing joint research and expanding opportunities for experiential learning.

The collaboration will further support key industries within the SEZ, including nutraceuticals, renewable energy, hydrogen mobility, and recycling, while strengthening technology transfer and the commercialisation of research outputs.

The collaboration is earmarked to create meaningful opportunities for young people in the province.  

UMP Vice-Chancellor and Principal, Professor Thenjiwe Meyiwa, emphasised the importance of the partnership in addressing youth unemployment and advancing people-centred development.

“This partnership represents a deliberate response to the urgent need for economic inclusion and sustainable livelihoods. It is through collaborations such as this that we can begin to create meaningful opportunities for young people and contribute to transforming our communities,” she said.

Professor Meyiwa added that the partnership should become a living framework that drives real impact in the lives of our people, noting the importance of positioning the province within continental and global economic systems.

“We aim to leverage platforms such as the African Continental Free Trade Area and BRICS partnerships to support localisation, innovation, and industrial growth, ensuring that Mpumalanga becomes an active participant in the global economy,” she said.

The signing of the MoU outlines a commitment to attracting both domestic and foreign investment, engaging local and international partners, and strengthening innovation ecosystems.

UMP will provide expertise and support for skills development programmes. 

Nkomazi SEZ Board Chairperson, Mr Victor Windvoel, described the partnership as a critical milestone that brings together key stakeholders to address unemployment, inequality, and slow economic growth through integrated approaches to skills development, research, and infrastructure.

“The University of Mpumalanga will play a pivotal role in providing technical expertise and supporting structured skills development programmes that are aligned with industry needs. For inclusive development, traditional leaders and local communities form an integral part of the partnership,” he said.

Chairperson of the UMP Council, Mr Sabelo Mahlalela, noted that Special Economic Zones globally have demonstrated their value as catalysts for economic growth, innovation, and investment attraction.

Their success is often underpinned by strong collaboration between universities, industry, and government, and the Nkomazi SEZ presents an opportunity to strengthen regional integration and unlock economic potential across provincial and international borders.

The UMP-Nkomazi SEZ is set to position Mpumalanga as a strategic hub connecting South Africa and neighbouring countries. 

“This initiative positions Mpumalanga as a strategic hub connecting South Africa with neighbouring countries such as Eswatini and Mozambique, while advancing sustainable agriculture, innovation, and economic development,” he said.

“South Africa continues to face significant challenges of poverty, inequality, and unemployment. Investment in industrial activity is essential to creating jobs and improving the quality of life for our communities,” said Advisory Board Chairperson for Special Economic Zones, Mr Fish Mahlalela.

“With the right alignment between national, provincial, and local stakeholders, and through strong institutional partnerships such as this, the SEZ can become a catalyst for meaningful regional transformation.”

As UMP and the Nkomazi SEZ move forward with implementing the agreement, the partnership is expected to help build a resilient, inclusive, and innovation-driven economy that supports sustainable development in Mpumalanga.

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UMP has been identified as a leading reference institution, recognised for its successful planning, phased development, and operationalisation of a modern higher education institution on the African Continent.

In welcoming the Government of Malawi delegation, UMP Vice-Chancellor and Principal, Professor Thenjiwe Meyiwa, highlighted the need to enhance collaboration among universities across the African continent.

“We regard ourselves as a pan-African institution, and it always gives us a greater pleasure to engage and share best practices with our peers on our Continent,” said Meyiwa.

Speaking on behalf of the Government of Malawi, Special Assistant: Economic Affairs in the Office of the Second Vice-President, Mr Foster Harawa said, “As our country prepares to implement several major infrastructure initiatives, including the proposed Mombera University, the University of Mpumalanga’s successful campus development offers valuable lessons and insights”.

The benchmarking visit included formal engagements, a campus tour, and a technical briefing that provided an overview of UMP’s development model and key infrastructure milestones.

The engagement underscores UMP’s growing role as a point of reference for modern higher education infrastructure development.

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Professor Phago is a respected scholar in public administration and governance, bringing extensive academic and policy experience to the role.

Before joining UMP, Professor Phago served as Professor and Director of the School of Government Studies at North-West University. He previously held the position of Full Professor and Head of Department for the Master of Public Administration postgraduate programme at the Faculty of Management and Law at the University of Limpopo.

He also holds an Adjunct Professorship in Governance at the Graduate School of Business Leadership at the University of South Africa and previously served as an Adjunct Professor at Uganda Technology and Management University.

Beyond academia, Professor Phago has contributed extensively to governance and public sector development. He has facilitated short learning programmes for municipalities as well as provincial and national government departments, and has collaborated with several departments of the South African government, the African Union Commission and the BRICS partnership. He also served as an expert member of the Presidential Remuneration Review Committee in South Africa.

His work has included participation in international capacity-building initiatives, including programmes that trained senior civil servants from South Sudan in South Africa, as well as similar programmes supporting officials across local, provincial and national spheres of government.

Public Administration and Governance Expert

Professor Phago began his academic career at Vista University in 2002 before lecturing at Tshwane University of Technology. He later joined the University of South Africa, where he served as an Associate Professor in the Department of Public Administration and Management until 2012.

He is actively involved in scholarly publishing and academic leadership, and currently serves as Africa Editor for the Journal of Local Economy and Associate Editor for the Journal of Public Affairs, both SCOPUS-indexed journals. He is also Editor-in-Chief of the Journal of Public Administration and recently co-edited the book Local Government Administration in Eastern and Southern Africa.

He is a member of the Ministerial Advisory Committee on Curriculum and Quality Assurance (2025 – 2029) and serves on the board of the South African Association of Public Administration and Management.

Professor Phago's research interests include public administration, good governance, local government, municipal service delivery, local economic development, integrated development planning, and housing and public policy. He has presented widely at national and international conferences and supervised numerous Master’s and doctoral candidates.

“We are pleased to welcome Professor Phago to UMP. He brings a wealth of knowledge and experience, which will contribute to the growth and impact of our institution as we forge ahead to fulfil our 2030 institutional goals,” said UMP Vice-Chancellor and Principal Thenjiwe Meyiwa..

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The engagement explored opportunities for collaboration in education, research, innovation and industry development, highlighting strong alignment between MISIS University’s technical expertise and UMP’s strategic priorities, particularly in relation to Mpumalanga’s key economic sectors.

The meeting, held at UMP’s Mbombela campus, brought together representatives from MISIS; Professor Dr Masamba Kah and Dr Mthetho Moyo from the Department of Higher Education and Training (DHET); Ms Boipelo Jarvis from the Subsoil of Africa Consortium of Mining Universities; Chairperson of the CFERI Board; UMP Vice-Chancellor and Principal, Professor Thenjiwe Meyiwa; and Professor Kanayo Ogujiuba, CFERI Director.

Speaking during the meeting, Professor Meyiwa mentioned that the collaboration with MISIS reflects a shared commitment to student-centred education, entrepreneurship, and innovation.

“MISIS is a leading institution in new technologies, and this partnership creates an opportunity for us to strengthen our global outlook while advancing our academic and research agenda,” she added.

“UMP is intentionally opening up more international collaborations, particularly within BRICS+ networks, to expand opportunities for joint programmes and research.”

She also mentioned that the partnership aligns with the Memorandum of Understanding signed with the Mpumalanga Provincial Government, which emphasises the role of universities in driving economic growth and development.

“Universities can no longer operate as ivory towers. We must actively engage with industry and communities to remain relevant and impactful. Through our Centre for Entrepreneurship Rapid Incubator, we are strengthening university–industry linkages and creating platforms for student entrepreneurship.

Key areas discussed included collaboration in energy, mining, biomedicine and industrial development. 

Our goal is to equip students with critical skills that respond to industry needs and contribute meaningfully to addressing youth unemployment in Mpumalanga. This collaboration demonstrates our commitment to innovation, global engagement, and building a truly student-focused institution,” said Professor Meyiwa.

Professor Ogujiuba explained that opportunities for joint projects in solar energy solutions, mining technologies and materials science were discussed, alongside the development of industry-aligned technical education programmes. Initiatives aimed at strengthening ICT and digital skills were also considered, with potential collaboration in agriculture and agro-processing.

“With Russia experiencing a shortage of mango products, UMP is well-positioned to explore export opportunities for dried mango and other fruit products. The opportunities identified, particularly in agro-processing and industry-linked research, have the potential to unlock value for our students, local communities, and the broader economy,” said Professor Ogujiuba.

The discussions also opened pathways for the development of agro-processing enterprises involving local farmers and student entrepreneurs, as well as possible partnerships with Russian institutions in rice production through student exchange programmes.

Professor Ogujiuba emphasised that the engagement represents a strategic milestone for UMP and CFERI as the University continues to position itself as a catalyst for innovation, entrepreneurship and regional development.

“Through collaborations of this nature, we are not only expanding our international footprint but also strengthening our capacity for research, innovation, and skills development. These partnerships enable meaningful knowledge exchange and open doors for our staff and students to access global opportunities,” he said.

The engagements highlighted opportunities for scholarships, staff and student exchange programmes.

The engagement further highlighted opportunities for scholarships, staff and student exchanges, and capacity-building programmes facilitated through the DHET Internationalisation Unit. These include short courses in project management, innovation and entrepreneurship, as well as joint training initiatives aimed at enhancing institutional capabilities.

In addition, MISIS University shared its endowment fund model, offering UMP insights into developing sustainable funding mechanisms to support innovation and strategic initiatives.

In a significant development, UMP has agreed in principle to host the inaugural Africa–Russia Universities Consortium Summit in 2026. The summit is expected to enhance the University’s international profile while creating a platform for large-scale academic, research and industry partnerships, as well as attracting investment and development opportunities.

Professor Ogujiuba noted: “Hosting the Africa–Russia Universities Consortium Summit will position UMP as a continental hub for collaboration and innovation. It presents a unique opportunity to bring together key stakeholders from academia, industry, and government to drive impactful partnerships.”

The proposed collaborations align closely with UMP’s strategic priorities, including internationalisation, research and innovation development, entrepreneurship, and regional socio-economic advancement.

As a next step, the University will initiate follow-up engagements with the delegation, identify pilot projects in agriculture and agro-processing, explore suitable endowment fund models, and establish a task team to drive implementation. Plans are also underway to assess the feasibility of hosting the 2026 Consortium Summit and to engage further with DHET on scholarship and mobility opportunities.

This engagement marks a significant step in strengthening UMP’s global partnerships and reinforces its commitment to becoming a developmental and entrepreneurial university with a strong international outlook.

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The Academy of Science of South Africa (ASSAf) Distinguished Visiting Scholar (DVS) Programme brings internationally recognised scholars to South African universities to promote research collaboration, intellectual exchange and public engagement with science.

The lecture was delivered by Professor Lindiwe Sibanda, a Zimbabwean-born food systems scientist, policy advocate and global leader in sustainable agriculture. She is widely recognised as one of Africa’s foremost experts on sustainable food systems, bridging science, policy and practice to ensure that agriculture and food systems support both people and the environment. Her work focuses on connecting farmers, research and decision-makers, keeping smallholder voices central to global discussions on agriculture and food security.

During her lecture, Professor Sibanda explored the importance of sustainable food systems in addressing Africa’s food challenges. She emphasised the need for nature-positive food production that reduces environmental emissions while promoting sustainable farming practices such as minimal soil tillage, maintaining ground cover and implementing crop rotation.

She also highlighted the role of science in strengthening resilience within communities, noting that scientific advances can help societies recover from climate shocks such as drought while supporting equitable livelihoods through agriculture and food systems.

“If Africa gets the food challenge right, we will stabilise health, strengthen climate resilience, create jobs and restore dignity, because we will no longer rely on others to feed us. We will produce food that nourishes both our bodies and our environment,” she said.

UMP Vice-Chancellor and Principal, Professor Thenjiwe Meyiwa, reflected on the importance of the ASSAf programme in addressing the food crisis in South Africa.

Professor Sibanda stressed that achieving sustainable agriculture requires strong stewardship of natural resources and supportive policy frameworks.

“For us to do agriculture right, as outlined in the Sustainable Development Goals, we must be good stewards of our soils and address the energy and water challenges. Science, technology adoption by farmers and the right policy environment are all critical,” she explained.

She added that academic research should be communicated in ways that are accessible to broader communities so that knowledge can inform public decision-making and practical solutions.

Professor Sibanda also noted the importance of strengthening livestock systems in Africa while maintaining a focus on both human and planetary health. Sustainable food systems, she said, should prioritise diet quality and nutrition rather than simply increasing food quantity.

“We can only bounce back better if we nurture our soil and environment. Climate-smart crops are nutrient-dense and resilient, yet they are not produced in sufficient quantities,” she said.

Professor Sibanda further highlighted the role of youth in transforming agriculture and food systems, noting that agro-processing and innovation can create significant employment opportunities.

She encouraged researchers and universities to take an active role in shaping policy by generating evidence and empowering communities affected by food insecurity to advocate for solutions.

“My proposed intervention is that everyone must become a seed of change. Researchers must generate evidence and equip those affected by the problem – farmers and communities – to engage with policymakers and influence decisions,” she said.

Professor Sibanda emphasised that sustainable agriculture depends on responsible resource management and supportive policy frameworks.

She also emphasised the importance of platforms that bring together scientists, policymakers and diplomats to collectively consider future food systems and the research needed to address challenges over the next 25 years.

According to Professor Sibanda, addressing food security requires breaking disciplinary silos and embracing transdisciplinary approaches that combine science, policy and community engagement.

She further called on universities to rethink their academic offerings to respond to global challenges such as climate change, nutrition, agricultural innovation and entrepreneurship.

“We are no longer training students only to become farmers but to become employers. By developing technologies and innovations, graduates can start their own businesses. Universities are vital centres for education, community trust and societal change,” she said.

UMP Vice-Chancellor and Principal Professor Thenjiwe Meyiwa said the ASSAf programme plays an important role in strengthening scientific dialogue and collaboration in South Africa, noting that since its establishment in 1996, the Academy of Science of South Africa has contributed significantly to building an inclusive and vibrant scientific community.

“This scholar programme brings distinguished thinkers into our institutions and ensures that our academic conversations remain bold, relevant and evidence-based,” she said.

 Faculty of Agriculture and Natural Sciences Dean, Professor Ndiko Ludidi.

Professor Meyiwa further added that public lectures create spaces for interdisciplinary engagement and encourage institutions to explore innovative responses to global challenges such as food insecurity.

“The public lecture reminds us to think differently about solutions. In today’s world, collaboration across disciplines is essential if we are to respond effectively to the food crisis,” she said.

The event concluded with a formal dinner attended by academics and researchers, including Professor Christine Wick from the University of Hohenheim, who serves as the principal investigator and leader of the DVS programme, and Professor Korsten from the University of Pretoria, who is both a director at the Centre of Excellence in Food Security and president of the African Academy of Sciences.

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South Africa has officially launched an ambitious international higher education collaboration through the Erasmus+ Programme titled FUTURE21, a project valued at €800,000 and designed to transform how universities teach sustainability and address socio-ecological challenges.

Running from 2026 to 2029, the initiative is led by Nelson Mandela University, with UMP serving as a key partner. International collaborators include Häme University of Applied Sciences in Finland and the University of Inland Norway. South African partners also include Forestry South Africa, the Garden Route Biosphere Reserve, and the Kruger to Canyons Biosphere Region.

At UMP, the project team includes Dr Ratsodo Phillip Tshidzumba (local coordinator and Lecturer: Forestry), Dr Lucky Makhubela (project participant and Lecturer: Forestry), Dr Marinkie Madiope (project participant and Director: Academic Support Services), and Dr Woudi Von Solms (project participant and Senior Lecturer: Tourism). 

Strengthening sustainability education

FUTURE21 aims to strengthen universities’ capacity to respond to pressing environmental and social challenges, including climate change, biodiversity conservation, sustainable livelihoods and green skills development.

Through the project, universities will introduce new academic programmes, revise existing curricula and expand opportunities for students to engage with real-world sustainability challenges.

Key outputs include the development of new honours-level programmes, revised modules in natural resource management and sustainability science, and short learning programmes. These initiatives are expected to benefit more than 125 short-course participants and over 40 honours students annually.

Dr Marinkie Madiope, Director of Academic Support Services and a member of the UMP project team, said the collaboration offers valuable opportunities for the University.

“We are excited to be part of the Erasmus+ FUTURE21 project. This collaboration provides a unique opportunity for the University of Mpumalanga to contribute to innovative sustainability education while strengthening partnerships with international universities and industry stakeholders.”

UMP project leader and local coordinator, Dr Ratsodo Phillip Tshidzumba, added that the team is enthusiastic about contributing to international collaboration that will strengthen sustainability education and prepare students to address real socio-ecological challenges in South Africa and beyond.

By combining international collaboration, curriculum innovation and applied learning, the Erasmus+ FUTURE21 project aims to position South African universities at the forefront of sustainability education in Africa while preparing graduates to address complex environmental and societal challenges.

The UMP team will contribute to curriculum innovation, staff development and the implementation of socio-ecological learning initiatives.

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Mr Nkosi, who studied Development Studies at UMP, has built a dynamic career as a Development Strategist, Drone Technology Specialist and Community Innovation Expert.

A significant component of his work focuses on land reform, one of South Africa’s most complex socio-economic challenges. With over nine years of experience across government and development sectors, his work spans land redistribution, tenure reform, agricultural support and community empowerment, all aimed at advancing inclusive and sustainable development.

He has been actively involved in facilitating land redistribution under the willing buyer–willing seller model and in supporting state land lease programmes through the Department of Land Reform and Rural Development. His experience has enabled him to develop a strong understanding of policy frameworks, including Section 25 of the Constitution, tenure reform and communal land governance systems.

“Land reform in South Africa is not just about transferring land – it is about restoring dignity, creating economic opportunity and ensuring long-term sustainability. However, policy fragmentation and lack of alignment between different frameworks remain major challenges,” he said, highlighting the complexities surrounding communal land.

There's a need for systems that balance traditional leadership structures with modern governance models. We need systems that provide communities with clear land rights while still respecting traditional authority. When communities have certainty and ownership, they are better positioned to participate meaningfully in the economy." 

In addition to his policy work, Mr Nkosi is advancing innovation through the use of drone technology. As a certified Remotely Piloted Aircraft Systems (RPAS) drone pilot with Beyond Visual Line of Sight (BVLOS) authorisation, he is integrating aerial and geospatial data into development practice.

He applies drone technology to land use analysis, agricultural planning, environmental monitoring and infrastructure assessment. His technical expertise includes mapping, tower surveying, powerline inspection and geospatial intelligence tools, enabling more efficient and data-driven decision-making.

“Drone technology allows us to generate real-time data on land use, agricultural productivity and environmental changes. This information is critical for policymakers, farmers and communities to make informed decisions that support sustainable development." 

Mr Nkosi is also committed to empowering young people through skills development and innovation. He is currently developing an initiative to establish a drone and technology training academy aimed at equipping youth with advanced digital and technical skills.

Mr Nkosi is also committed to empowering young people through skills development and innovation.

“Young people, especially in rural and communal areas, have the potential to innovate and lead. What they often lack is access to technology, skills and opportunities. This initiative is about bridging that gap and preparing young people for a future shaped by technology,” he said.

The initiative aims to address youth unemployment while positioning Mpumalanga Province as a hub for innovation and technological advancement. By introducing young people to fields such as drone operations, geospatial analysis and artificial intelligence, Mr Nkosi seeks to unlock new economic opportunities.

He emphasised the importance of collaboration in achieving sustainable development outcomes, noting that partnerships between higher education institutions, government and the private sector are essential.

“Partnerships are critical if we are to address the challenges facing our country. Institutions like the University of Mpumalanga, together with government and industry, have a responsibility to support innovative initiatives that create opportunities and build capacity among young people,” he said.

As a forward-thinking leader, Mr Nkosi remains focused on advancing inclusive development, strengthening land reform systems and leveraging technology to improve lives. His journey reflects the transformative power of education and the role of young professionals in shaping the future.

“The future belongs to those who are prepared to build it. As young people, we must move beyond identifying problems and start creating solutions that uplift our communities and drive meaningful change,” he said, concluding that the gap between research and practice must be met. 

His work reflects a strong commitment to evidence-based solutions, institutional strengthening and community-centred development.

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TESA is a leading professional body representing academics from institutions of higher learning that offer tourism and hospitality programmes across South Africa. The organisation promotes collaboration among educators with the aim of strengthening the quality, relevance and impact of tourism education and training.

Dr Thwala will serve in a dual role as Director and Government Engagement Officer. In these positions, she will contribute to national dialogue and strategic initiatives aimed at strengthening tourism education and aligning academic programmes with industry needs and government policy frameworks.

Her responsibilities include facilitating engagement between tourism academics and key national stakeholders, undertaking commissioned research, and supporting Memoranda of Understanding with sector partners. These partners include the National Department of Tourism (NDT), South African Tourism (SAT), the South African National Convention Bureau (SANCB), and other stakeholders involved in policy and strategic discussions relating to the Tourism Sector Master Plan (TSMP) and broader tourism development priorities in South Africa.

Dr Thwala also serves as an Executive Committee member of the Provincial Tourism Stakeholder Forum, also known as the Tourism Think Tank. The forum is led by the Mpumalanga Tourism and Parks Agency (MTPA) in partnership with the Department of Economic Development and Tourism (DEDT).

Through these platforms, she contributes to strengthening collaboration between academia, government and industry while supporting tourism policy engagement and sector development at both provincial and national levels.

Her national engagement enhances the visibility of the University of Mpumalanga within tourism education networks, while also creating opportunities for research collaboration and ensuring that academic programmes remain aligned with national policy frameworks and industry priorities.

This engagement further supports the development of industry-ready graduates through strengthened partnerships with employers, professional bodies and sector stakeholders.

Dr Thwala’s work reflects the University’s commitment to impactful and forward-looking higher education. Through her scholarship, postgraduate supervision and mentorship, programme leadership, and national stakeholder engagement, she continues to contribute to the advancement of tourism education and sustainable tourism development in South Africa.

Tourism Educators South Africa promotes collaboration among tourism and hospitality academics and postgraduate students through research partnerships and Memoranda of Understanding with accredited academic journals.

The association advances tourism and hospitality education through national and international research collaboration, the sharing of best practices, and engagement with industry and government stakeholders. It provides a platform for tourism educators to contribute to national skills development, curriculum innovation and policy dialogue within the sector.

TESA also hosts student-focused research events, facilitates industry-linked webinars that address graduate employability, and supports access to potential internships, bursaries and employment pathways for students in the tourism and hospitality field. These initiatives contribute to tourism skills development, tourism human resource development, and the professionalisation of the tourism and hospitality sector.

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The PGDip (HE) is designed to support academics in strengthening their teaching practice. The programme encourages participants to examine their teaching philosophies, curriculum design, assessment practices, and approaches to student engagement within the context of South African higher education. 

Through scholarly engagement and reflection, participants are encouraged to place student learning at the centre of their teaching while responding to issues of access, transformation, and inclusivity.

Balancing the demands of teaching, research, community engagement, and administrative responsibilities, these staff members have demonstrated commitment to their professional development. The programme provided an opportunity for them to reflect on their roles as academics, reconsider aspects of their teaching practice, and explore approaches that support student learning.

The knowledge and skills gained through the PGDip (HE) will contribute to teaching and learning at UMP. Graduates of the programme are better equipped to design coherent curricula, implement appropriate assessment practices, and contribute to the scholarship of teaching and learning within their disciplines and across the institution.

UMP congratulates these academics on this achievement and acknowledges their commitment to strengthening teaching and learning at the University.

“On behalf of the University of Mpumalanga, we extend our appreciation to our funder, the Department of Higher Education and Training (DHET), for making it possible for seven UMP staff members to complete the Postgraduate Diploma in Higher Education (PGDip HE) through Rhodes University,” said Dr Madiope Marinkie, Director of Academic Support Services at UMP.

UMP staff members who completed the programme.

Prof Tim Forssman, Associate Professor in Cultural and Heritage Studies, School of Social Sciences.

“The PGDip (HE) strengthened my teaching practice through reflective learning, collegial engagement, and renewed scholarly focus. Returning to the role of a student enhanced my appreciation of purposeful curriculum design, assessment, and feedback, and helped me move from intuitive teaching to a more theoretically grounded approach. I am grateful to the University of Mpumalanga for its support and to colleagues who contributed to the experience.”

Dr Xola Nduku, Lecturer in Animal Production, School of Agricultural Sciences.

“Pursuing the PGDip (HE) was a deliberate step to grow beyond my disciplinary expertise in Animal Science and develop as a reflective, student-centred educator. While my subject knowledge and research experience provided a strong foundation, effective teaching in higher education requires a deeper understanding of pedagogy, curriculum design, and student learning. The programme equipped me with tools to examine my practice and implement strategies that support student engagement and learning.”

Dr Rudzani Mhlari, Lecturer in Psychology, School of Social Sciences.

“I undertook the PGDip HE to bridge the gap between subject expertise and effective teaching. The programme shifted my approach from delivering content to designing learning experiences informed by pedagogical theory. Through this process, I developed skills in scaffolding, assessment, curriculum development, the use of AI in teaching, and peer and student evaluation.”

Dr Themba Lukhele, Lecturer in Developmental Studies, School of Developmental Studies.

“Over the past eight years, my teaching was largely guided by disciplinary knowledge, with limited engagement in pedagogical theory. The PGDip HE helped me become a more reflective practitioner and supported the integration of sound pedagogical principles with my disciplinary expertise. The programme strengthened my confidence as an academic and my commitment to inclusive teaching.”

Washington Makuzva, Lecturer in Events Management, School of Hospitality and Tourism Management.

“Enrolling in the PGDip (HE) programme was an important step in my academic career. The programme challenged my teaching practices and strengthened my understanding of teaching and learning. It influenced how I facilitate classes, design assessments, and provide feedback to my students. I appreciate the opportunity provided by the University of Mpumalanga and the support that enabled my completion of the programme offered in collaboration with Rhodes University.”

Dr Nkareng Klaas-Makolomakwe, Lecturer in Social Work, School of Social Sciences.

“I am grateful for the opportunity and support that UMP provided for me to complete the PGDip-HE at Rhodes. When I joined UMP, I brought experience from practising as a social worker, researcher, and policy developer. While this experience supported my teaching, the programme helped me incorporate deeper reflection and critical engagement into my practice and develop a teaching philosophy grounded in the values of both UMP and social work.”

Dr Nonzwakazi Maqubela, Senior Lecturer in Sociology, School of Social Sciences.

“Completing the PGDip has been an important stage in my professional development. The programme strengthened my teaching philosophy and practice, and equipped me to be a reflective practitioner and curriculum developer. I also gained a deeper understanding of curriculum transformation and the role of assessment in supporting student learning. I am grateful to the University of Mpumalanga for investing in my development.”

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Ms Msiza is currently serving as a tutor for Public Administration 101 and as an administrator in the Public Administration Student Society, where she contributes to both academic support and student development initiatives.

In her tutoring role, she assists newly enrolled students as they transition into university life by providing structured academic support and helping them navigate the University’s learning environment. She works closely with first-year students to strengthen their understanding of coursework, prepare for assessments and develop effective study strategies.

Student tutors at UMP are selected from senior students who demonstrate strong academic performance, leadership qualities and exemplary conduct. They are assigned to support students within their respective programmes, offering guidance throughout the academic year.

The 20-year-old works alongside five other tutors to support a large cohort of between 300 and 400 students enrolled in Public Administration 101.

“On Tuesdays, I attend the class to support the lecturer and assist first-year students with their academic work,” said Ms Msiza. “Each tutor works with a specific group of students, helping them understand the course content, prepare for tests, quizzes and examinations, and respond to questions where additional support is needed.”

Ms Msiza notes that her tutoring experience has deepened her understanding of the challenges faced by first-year students while also opening new opportunities for her own development.

“The tutoring opportunity exposed me to resources and support systems I did not initially know existed within the University,” she said. “It also showed me that there are income-generating opportunities within the university space.”

Her academic excellence has been recognised by the Ndebele Student Association, where she achieved eight distinctions out of 11 modules.

Beyond academics, Ms Msiza is also making strides as a young entrepreneur. She has participated in workshops hosted by the University of Mpumalanga Centre for Entrepreneurship, Rapid Incubation and Innovation, including the Be Wallet Wise series, which have contributed to her business development skills.

Ms Msiza believes that access to opportunities is essential for success, particularly for young women.

She recently secured first place in the Charged-Up Africa Network Entrepreneurship Competition, receiving a R10 000 cash prize, a tablet, a certificate of area growth and an Absa support package.

Her winning business, AeroGrow Haircare Range, focuses on producing organic, chemical-free haircare products. The achievement has strengthened her resolve to transition her business from concept to full operation.

“The win represents a future I used to only imagine,” .she added,  “I am now doing this not only for myself, but for the community that will one day benefit from the solutions I am creating.”

While she values the prizes, Ms Msiza emphasised that the recognition of her efforts was most meaningful. “Winning reminded me that hard work pays off and that every setback contributed to this moment,” she said.

Her journey is grounded in leadership and service. She has served as Deputy Secretary and currently serves as Secretary of Enactus UMP, and has also held a leadership role as a residence floor representative.

“Leadership is not about holding a title, but about understanding people, showing patience and being willing to serve. Anyone can succeed when given the right opportunities. Women deserve to be at the forefront of entrepreneurship, and I want to contribute to that change,” she said.

Ms Msiza’s road to success reflects the University of Mpumalanga’s commitment to Creating Opportunities, as she continues to support her peers while building her own path as a future leader and entrepreneur.

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The FPP is a two-year initiative aimed at accelerating the development of early- and mid-career academics into high-performing professors. It identifies and supports scholars with exceptional potential for leadership in South Africa’s higher education sector.

The programme is intensive and structured, offering workshops, mentoring, networking, residential seminars, and international mobility opportunities, with a particular focus on advancing black and women academics.

“This is an exciting opportunity to contribute more meaningfully to UMP’s academic mission,” Dr Dalu said. “It affirms the institution’s commitment to developing its academic staff and enhancing the quality of teaching and research available to students.”

She added that participation in the programme will help create a representative professoriate, strengthen research outputs, and develop academic leadership.

“I hope the programme will provide advanced training in leadership, curriculum development, and research supervision. The skills and networks I gain will directly improve undergraduate and postgraduate teaching, enhance research output, and strengthen UMP’s capacity to produce well-prepared graduates.”

Dr Dalu also emphasised the benefits for students. “The knowledge gained will translate into updated teaching methods and expanded opportunities for collaborative research, ensuring that the programme strengthens the university as a whole.”

Holding a PhD in Environmental Science from Rhodes University, Dr Dalu has a respected record of publications in leading international journals and has secured competitive national and international research funding.

She is actively involved in postgraduate mentorship within the Faculty of Agriculture and Natural Sciences. In 2025, she was inducted into the South African Young Academy of Science (SAYAS), further affirming her status as an emerging research leader in South Africa.

Upon completing the FPP, Dr Dalu plans to use the knowledge and networks gained to enhance UMP’s research profile, develop new interdisciplinary programmes, strengthen postgraduate supervision, and contribute to strategies that improve student outcomes and academic success.

Dr Dalu works at the intersection of environmental science, sustainable livelihoods, and governance.

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