On 27 November 2025, the University of Mpumalanga (UMP) hosted a dinner to welcome the new Vice-Chancellor, Professor Thenjiwe Meyiwa.
The ceremony brought together council members, executive leadership, academic and support staff, the SRC, organised labour, Convocation and the broader university community, marking an important moment as UMP enters a new phase of leadership.
UMP Deputy Chairperson of Council, Ms Nqabisa Ravele, reflected on the significance of the evening, describing the appointment of Professor Meyiwa as a milestone for an institution that recently celebrated its first decade.
“This next phase requires all of us to change gears,” she said, emphasising collective responsibility across the university.
Ms Ravele added that the role of Vice-Chancellor demanded passion, commitment and strategic clarity.
“The success of the new Vice-Chancellor depends on the collaboration, guidance and unity of all of us here,” she said, assuring Professor Meyiwa of Council’s full confidence. “We believe deeply in your leadership, and we stand ready to walk this journey with you.”
DVC Postgraduate Studies, Engagement and Planning, Professor Moses Mbewe, highlighted the historical significance of welcoming only the second Vice-Chancellor in UMP’s history.
“You join us at a time when UMP is midway through its growth trajectory,” he said, noting the university’s steady expansion. “We have over 12 000 students now, and we are well on our way to reaching our long-term planned enrolment of over 23 000.”
Professor Mbewe underscored the need to support the new Vice-Chancellor.
“Our responsibility is to help you navigate the pressures that come with leading a growing institution,” he said.
Using a gentle metaphor, he added: “A shepherd guides with firmness, courage and compassion – and we commit to standing with you as you lead us forward.”
Speaking at the ceremony, Mr Mahlalela outlined that the Council’s aspiration is for an institution that strengthens research productivity, champions innovation, ensures financial sustainability and cultivates global partnerships.
Delivering remarks on behalf of the Institutional Forum, Council Member Dr Adv. Mphalane Makhura expressed enthusiasm about the road ahead, describing the evening as the start of a new chapter.
He reaffirmed the Forum’s commitment to strengthening governance and institutional alignment.
Dr Makhura noted that UMP was entering a critical planning phase that required renewed vision.
“We stand ready to provide advice, support and constructive guidance,” he said. “We are prepared to work with you as we map out the next five and even ten years of this institution.”
In his address, Chairperson of Council, Mr Sabelo Mahlalela, spoke about the rigorous recruitment and selection process that led to the appointment of Professor Meyiwa.
“We wanted to ensure that UMP appoints a leader with both the experience and the heart to take this university forward,” he said.
Referencing Vision 2030, Mr Mahlalela outlined the Council’s aspirations: “We want an institution that strengthens research productivity, champions innovation, ensures financial sustainability and cultivates global partnerships.”
He also reflected on UMP’s remarkable growth. “From 169 students in 2011 to 11 885 today, our progress speaks for itself. We are aiming for 17 445 enrolments by 2030, and we are confident this is attainable under your leadership.”
Mr Mahlalela encouraged the new Vice-Chancellor to continue forging collaborations and benchmarking against leading global universities.
“We have full faith that you will lead us with purpose and distinction,” he said.
Speakers described the appointment of Professor Meyiwa as a milestone for an institution that recently celebrated its first decade.
Responding with deep appreciation, Vice-Chancellor Professor Thenjiwe Meyiwa reflected on the journey ahead and the confidence placed in her.
“Tonight, as I listened to your messages, I felt the heartbeat of this university. I have done the emotional, psychological and spiritual work required to lead an institution of this magnitude,” she said.
Emphasising her commitment to students, she added: “Our students are the reason we exist; their well-being and their success will always be my priority.”
Professor Meyiwa stressed the importance of collaboration and mutual respect across the institution. “We must build a culture of cooperation, coordination, empathy and ownership,” she said, expressing her intention to strengthen community engagement and academic development.
“We want to ensure that UMP contributes meaningfully to the development of our local municipalities, and that we continue to embed ourselves as a university that serves.”
On staff development, she noted the need for adaptability. “We must continuously upskill and reskill ourselves to meet the demands of a rapidly changing sector. While I believe in consultation, I am also aware that leadership requires making decisions – even difficult ones – with integrity and courage,” she remarked.
She expressed gratitude for the warmth she had been shown. “The warmth and confidence you have shown me give me the strength to lead with conviction.”
Professor Meyiwa concluded: “I walk into this journey with hope. Hope in our students, hope in our staff, and hope in what UMP can become when we move forward with unity and purpose.”
The Welcome Dinner marked the beginning of a new chapter for the University of Mpumalanga. The evening reflected a shared commitment to academic excellence, institutional growth and a clear sense of direction. Under the leadership of Professor Thenjiwe Meyiwa, UMP is poised to deepen its impact, strengthen its identity and continue its development as a university committed to quality, transformation and sustainable progress.
Follow the link to watch the welcoming dinner of newly appointed UMP Vice-Chancellor, Professor Thenjiwe Meyiwa:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=g9_S9I-17cE&t=24s
Story by Cleopatra Makhaga. Pictures by JB Creative Cinema. Copyright © UMP