Professor Mayekiso was honoured during the 21st Annual Premier Black Business Quarterly Awards (BBQ Awards) held at Radisson Hotel and Convention Centre in Johannesburg on 05 September 2025. She received the award for her exceptional leadership in leading the institution as one of the new universities established in the democratic era.

In handing over the award, Professor JJ Tabane, Editor of BBQ Magazine, said, “As a new University in our country, the University of Mpumalanga needed a leader who could take it to the highest level. Prof Mayekiso has managed to be a shining light in higher education and is worthy of this outstanding service award.”

Professor Mayekiso was honoured at the BBQ Awards recently held in Johannesburg.

BBQ Awards, South Africa's most prestigious and longest-running Black Business Awards Ceremony, has for the past 21 years celebrated and recognised champions of excellence in transformation. The BBQ celebrates good corporate governance, leadership, and excellence.

Watch the highlights on our YouTube channel: https://youtu.be/swrSi7RgEbg

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Now in its tenth year, the lecture continues to strengthen UMP’s vision of shaping leaders rooted in integrity, compassion, and accountability. By fostering dialogue and reflection, the university affirms its role as a hub of academic excellence and ethical development.

UMP Vice-Chancellor Professor Thoko Mayekiso stressed the importance of applying the lessons of ethical leadership beyond the academic space.

“The lessons shared here today must not end in this lecture hall. They must be applied in our roles as leaders, students, and members of society so that we may improve our communities and contribute meaningfully to a just South Africa,” she said.

Delivering the lecture, Professor Gobodo-Madikizela placed Ubuntu at the centre of ethical and moral leadership, urging leaders to confront the legacies of historical trauma and build bridges of healing.

“Ubuntu calls us to empathic repair. It demands that we create spaces of proximity and recognition between people from different sides of history, so that we can begin to heal and rehumanise our fractured world,” she said, reflecting on examples including the Truth and Reconciliation Commission (TRC) to illustrate the enduring wounds of the past.

 Professor Gobodo-Madikizela, Research Chair at Stellenbosch University, focused her lecture on Ubuntu as a notion of ethical leadership.

By revisiting moments of profound human suffering and resilience, she emphasised the role of love and justice as guiding principles for leadership.

“In a world defined by political polarisation and widespread societal fracture, the concept of ethical leadership has never been more critical. Yet our current discourse often shies away from the quality that may be its most potent component, the quality of love.

Love, not as an emotion, but as an ethic of commitment to justice, resonates deeply with the notion of ethical leadership and with the ethic of Ubuntu,” she added.

“Ubuntu represents a loving and caring outlook that recognises our profound interconnectedness, making our neighbour’s humanity a condition for our own. Ethical leadership requires a radical commitment to love and caring for others, not as a substitute for justice, but as the very foundation upon which justice can be built.

The reverberations of past violence show us that the wounds of history require more than a traditional justice process. They demand a continuous act of ethical leadership, a reparative humanism that gestures toward solidarity, recognition, and the creation of a more humane society.

 Ms Lungelwa Makgoba, Professor Thoko Mayekiso and Professor Pumla Gobodo-Madikizela.

The cries of history are not merely memories. They are demands for leadership willing to engage with the pain of its people, not as weakness, but as a source of strength. A leader guided by Ubuntu cannot turn a blind eye to suffering. This ethical framework demands radical love, a love that interrupts cycles of dehumanisation and repairs the fragmented body politic.”

Professor Gobodo-Madikizela encouraged attendees to view ethical leadership not only as a professional responsibility but also as a moral imperative for societal transformation.

Through a recorded message of support, Archbishop Thabo Makgoba highlighted the role of the ATMDT in advancing education, food security, and social justice.

“The lecture series provides a vital platform for reflection, dialogue, and transformation beyond academia. It is a space for engaging national issues and strengthening moral leadership,” he said.

Vice-Chancellor Professor Mayekiso congratulates Ms Mbali Mahlane, who won the student essay competition on ethical and moral leadership.

The event also recognised student voices, with the announcement of the winner of the annual essay competition on ethical and moral leadership. The award was presented to Mbali Mahlane, a fourth-year Bachelor of Education student in Foundation Phase Teaching, for her outstanding essay reflecting on the significance of morals and ethics in leadership.

This recognition underscored the importance of nurturing ethical consciousness among future leaders and highlighted UMP’s commitment to creating platforms for student engagement.

The annual lecture remains central to UMP’s efforts to inspire leaders and students to embrace ethical and moral principles in their everyday decisions. As the institution grows in stature, such events reaffirm its commitment to nurturing a culture of ethical leadership that extends beyond campus into communities and society at large.

Story by Cleopatra Makhaga. Pictures by CL Photography. Copyright ©UMP

At a farewell gala dinner held on 18 September 2025, University leadership expressed gratitude for the role student leaders played in strengthening the culture of engagement and representation at UMP.

UMP Vice-Chancellor Professor Mayekiso acknowledged the student leadership for their dedication, servant leadership, and advocacy for student welfare. She applauded the student leaders for their leadership and commitment to serving UMP students.

“You have excelled as brand ambassadors of UMP,” she said. "True leadership is about living a legacy and leaving the world in a better state than we found it. It is the seemingly small things, the caring, the following up, the representation and advocacy, that made it possible for all of us at UMP to have the kind of year we have experienced.”

She further added: “You understood that UMP comes first and worked always in the best interests of the University and its students. Striving for common good and common ground has proved to be a winning formula.”

The student leaders were recognised for their dedication and commitment.

Dean of Students, Dr Paul Maminza, emphasised the importance of integrity in leadership, noting the crucial role the outgoing SRC and CRCs played in guiding students with commitment and care.

“Such an occasion allows us to reflect on the year that has passed and look at the lessons and insights gained. Gala dinners are there to humanise and remind us not to forget counting our blessings and appreciating one another.

Moreover, my task is to remind us of the psychological safety we all need, to feel trusted, valued, appreciated and needed, and to raise our consciousness about our connectedness to one another,” he said.

The outgoing leadership was applauded for serving the interests of students.

Outgoing SRC President, Mr Hlompho Prosper Chiloane, reflected on the team’s journey, describing leadership as a commitment to excellence, integrity, and service. He acknowledged their collective efforts and urged the incoming SRC to lead with humility and courage.

“Service is never glamorous. It meant standing in queues during registration to assist students personally, sleepless nights drafting proposals, and intervening when landlords threatened to evict students during exams. We showed up because we understood the timeless truth that the doors of learning and culture shall be open, and our task was to make sure they stayed open.”

“Real leadership is collective. It is forged in the sleepless nights of planning, in the difficult conversations where compromise is necessary, and in the unwavering hands of comrades who stood shoulder to shoulder when it mattered most.”

He added, “To those who will take up the baton after us, remember that you are not inheriting titles. You are inheriting responsibilities. The SRC is not a platform for personal ambition; it is a covenant of trust with the student body. Lead with humility, serve with courage, and value collaboration.”

The event also marked the beginning of a new chapter for the incoming student leadership at UMP. Their role will be central to advancing the University’s vision of nurturing responsible citizens and ethical leaders who contribute meaningfully to society.

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Long-standing partners, the collaborative framework includes dedicated research engagements, high-level capacity advancement, and innovation, broadly focused on sustainable water security and food security.

During the signing of the agreement in Perth, Australia, the DVC Research, Innovation and Internationalisation at UMP, Prof Aldo Stroebel (representing Prof Thoko Mayekiso, VC of UMP), and the Executive Director of the Gullibali Institute, Prof Lee Baumgartner, CSU (representing Mike Ferguson, PVC International), were joined by Prof Kanaya Oguijuba, UMP and Prof Gordon O’Brien, CSU and Research Associate at UMP.

Both Universities are members of the growing Australia-Africa Universities Network (AAUN).

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Mr Khoza, a Mathematics teacher and principal at Laerskool Numbi in White Hazy 1 Circuit, Ehlanzeni District, was declared the 2025 National Teaching Award winner in the category of Excellence in Technology Enhanced Teaching.

The National Teaching Awards acknowledge teaching performance and aim to highlight effective practices in education. They recognise teachers and schools for their work and encourage the adoption of best practices. The awards also seek to motivate educators to engage in professional development and improve their teaching methods.

Mr Khoza is passionate about using ICT tools in the classroom and beyond to support early learning. He believes that challenging the perception that mathematics and the sciences are difficult subjects from an early stage is critical in raising future scientists.

“My primary goal is to facilitate teaching and learning for students, aiming to encourage critical and analytical thinking that enables them to develop tools and devices to address various challenges and improve everyday life.”

For Mr Khoza, being recognised as a regional winner of the National Teaching Awards was a rewarding experience.

“It was a validation of our hard work and dedication to teaching, and it motivated us to continue striving for excellence in our profession,” he said.

Mr Khoza believes that effective teaching requires strong classroom leadership, keeping up to date with new methods and technologies, and collaborating with colleagues to share best practices.

Mr Khoza emphasises the importance of staying updated on new methods and technologies.

“Give 100% effort, research and collaborate with colleagues, and treat everyone with respect and humility,” advises Mr Khoza to aspiring teachers and new educators.

With a passion for helping students learn and grow, Mr Khoza has developed a teaching approach that is both innovative and practical. His journey in education began in high school, where he discovered his enthusiasm for mathematics and science.

Encouraged by his teachers to pursue a career in education, he went on to earn a Bachelor of Education degree and later completed a Master’s degree in Education at the University of Mpumalanga (UMP). This shaped his approach to teaching, particularly in integrating ICT tools into lessons and developing a more confident and innovative style.

“A quality teacher is caring, hardworking, passionate about their job, punctual, and ethical,” says Mr Khoza.

As a principal, he works to embody these qualities, setting a positive tone for his school and inspiring learners to reach their full potential. His teaching approach is focused on encouraging creativity and critical thinking through research-based assessments and practical applications. One particularly successful initiative was a Natural Sciences and Technology project where learners were asked to design 3D figures and posters about planets.

“This project not only taught students about science, but also encouraged them to think creatively and develop problem-solving skills. The project was a success, with almost all students using recycled materials and demonstrating a deeper understanding of the subject matter.”

Mr Khoza’s commitment to teaching and learning is truly inspiring. His innovative approach to teaching, passion for helping learners learn and grow, and dedication to excellence in education make them a role model for educators everywhere. He is currently pursuing his PhD with a research paper focused on ICT Integration and Robotics Implementation in the Foundation Phase.

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Co-curricular activities – including sport, cultural groups, and student organisations – play a vital role in developing leadership, strengthening social engagement, and supporting student well-being.

The Dean of Students, Dr Paul Maminza, emphasised that these activities are an integral part of UMP’s culture and policy, shaping well-rounded graduates and enriching student life.

“Tonight we recognise dedication, talent, and the spirit of community that our students bring to the institution,” he said. “This is about celebrating excellence while acknowledging participation, resilience, and commitment.”

Students were recognised for their sterling performance.

Vice-Chancellor Professor Thoko Mayekiso underlined the role of co-curricular involvement in holistic student development, encouraging students to embrace excellence as a way of life.

“Excellence is not a single act, but a habit. The 12 Cs of Excellence – consistency, commitment, courage, curiosity, collaboration, confidence, creativity, caring, competence, constructiveness, clarity, and enthusiasm – are the pillars that will guide you into your future as leaders,” said Professor Mayekiso.

She reaffirmed UMP’s commitment to preparing students for leadership roles in a rapidly changing world. “Excellence comes from high intention, sincere effort, intelligent direction, skilful execution, and persistence. At UMP, we support and celebrate you as future leaders who will inspire others and drive positive change,” she said.

Highlighting the importance of resilience and adaptability, she added: “Students must be resilient, informed, and empathetic. These qualities will not only prepare you for personal success but will also enable you to contribute meaningfully to your communities and to society at large.”

Reminding students of the need for continuous growth, Professor Mayekiso urged: “Avoid complacency and always strive to be better. Excellence is a journey, not a destination. At UMP, we encourage you to keep pushing boundaries, building on positive trends, and inspiring those around you to reach higher.”

Co-curricular awards recognise students for excelling in non-academic activities.

SRC President, Mr Prosper Hlompho Chiloane, congratulated the award recipients and reminded students that impact goes beyond academics. “Success is not measured only by grades, but by the difference you make in the lives of others. Education extends beyond the classroom. Dream big, challenge the status quo, and lead with purpose.”

He added, “Whether you received an award or not, you have the power to make a difference in your community. At UMP, we are not just producing graduates – we are nurturing leaders who will transform Africa and the world.”

The award ceremony brought together the university community to celebrate student achievements in diverse activities – from leadership and sport to culture and community engagement – reaffirming UMP’s commitment to fostering both academic excellence and the holistic development of its students.

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The award celebrates the group’s project, “Ethnobotanical insights into medicinal plants for managing childhood diseases and promoting wellbeing in South Africa”, which explores how indigenous plants can be used to improve child health while promoting biodiversity conservation and safeguarding traditional knowledge.

“This is more than recognition,” Dr Ndhlovu said. “It inspires us to continue exploring indigenous flora with renewed energy. Our work contributes to Sustainable Development Goal 3 (Good Health and Wellbeing) by promoting plant-based healthcare for children, and Goal 15 (Life on Land) by supporting biodiversity conservation and the sustainable use of indigenous plants.”

The research, conducted in collaboration with postgraduate students and fellow researchers, has documented numerous plant species across several provinces, including Mpumalanga, expanding the indigenous pharmacopoeia and strengthening child healthcare through affordable and accessible plant-based remedies.

By drawing attention to plants that have historically been used in South African ethnomedicine, the project seeks to provide sustainable healthcare solutions in communities where communicable diseases and malnutrition remain leading causes of childhood mortality.

Advancing Indigenous Knowledge

Dr Ndhlovu explained that his passion is rooted in personal experience: “I have always been fascinated by the deep cultural connections people have with plants and their untapped scientific potential. Ethnobotanical research allows me to connect indigenous knowledge with modern science, preserving cultural heritage while uncovering innovative solutions for health and environmental sustainability.”

Presenting on a global platform in Naples was both humbling and rewarding. The conference provided invaluable opportunities to exchange ideas, receive feedback, and engage with experts from around the world.

“Standing among international researchers, I felt immense pride in representing the University of Mpumalanga and showcasing the richness of African indigenous knowledge,” Dr Ndhlovu reflected. “The award has also enhanced the visibility of UMP’s contribution to global knowledge systems, highlighting the university’s growing impact in research and innovation.”

He further mentioned that the recognition has not only raised the international profile of the research but also opened doors for further collaborations, partnerships, and funding opportunities.

“It has encouraged greater participation among UMP’s postgraduate students, who are actively involved in collecting, documenting, and analysing plant species. Collaboration is the heartbeat of our research,” Dr Ndhlovu noted. “From data collection to analysis and interpretation, our collective effort has been central to the success of the project.”

The research team hopes to expand their studies to cover more communities and integrate their findings into practical healthcare strategies. Their goal is to develop solutions that are not only scientifically sound but also culturally appropriate, ensuring that indigenous knowledge continues to play a vital role in modern healthcare systems.

Dr Ndhlovu encourages students and emerging researchers to embrace indigenous knowledge systems: “Our biodiversity and cultural heritage are treasures waiting to be explored. By combining traditional wisdom with innovative science, we can create solutions that are locally meaningful and globally relevant.”

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The Catalysts' winning idea, the Hologram Hub, is a digital platform that uses holographic projections to showcase South Africa’s history and cultural figures while linking tourists with local vendors. The project is designed to preserve heritage, create opportunities for small businesses, and support sustainable tourism.

Ms Nkosi was one of 48 students from 21 higher education institutions who worked on AI-driven solutions to encourage job creation and inclusive growth in tourism.

Speaking about the project, Ms Nkosi emphasised the importance of combining Ubuntu values with technological advancement.

“As much as innovation is shaping the hospitality industry, people still want to see the human element. The Hologram Hub is about preserving culture, empowering local vendors, and giving tourists a safe space to experience the true spirit of our communities.”

Ms Nkosi also runs a branding and marketing company that assists small businesses with design and web services.

Ms Nkosi credits her success to the mentorship of Ms Bulelwa Naku, the visionary leadership of Professor July Sibanyoni, the Head of the School of Hospitality and Tourism Management at UMP, and the support of the Future Leaders Challenge and Game Changers community.

She also showed appreciation for the Department of Tourism for hosting the first G20 Tourism Hackathon in Africa and for empowering young people to co-create transformative solutions.

Her success highlights the impact of student-led projects at UMP and the role of young entrepreneurs in shaping the future of tourism and hospitality. Alongside her studies, Ms Nkosi runs Shiloh Innovations, a branding and marketing company that helps small businesses with design and web services.

She has also been part of the UMP Centre for Entrepreneurship Rapid Incubator, which has helped her refine her ideas and strengthen her focus on community development through innovation.

The University congratulates Ms Nkosi on her achievement and recognises the example she sets for fellow students.

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The seminar explored research that integrates proteomics, metabolomics, and metagenomics to better understand how plants and their associated microbes respond to stresses such as drought, heat, salinity, and heavy metals.

During his presentation, Dr Ali discussed the complexities of plant responses to abiotic stresses, with particular focus on drought and heat. Drawing on his PhD research into sorghum genotypes, he highlighted how proteomics revealed differential protein expressions under stress conditions and how microbial interactions in soil influence plant growth and resilience.

His study presented quantitative proteomics analyses of leaf and root tissues of two contrasting sorghum genotypes grown under normal conditions, water deficit stress, heat stress, and combined water deficit and heat stress. The findings revealed biological processes and molecular pathways associated with sorghum responses to these treatments. Integration of these proteomics data with other ‘omics’ signatures may provide insights into the mechanisms underpinning sorghum adaptation to stress.

Dr Ali’s research also extends to maize, barley, and okra, where he investigates stress tolerance and nutrient composition. His work continues to contribute to strategies aimed at enhancing food security in the face of climate change.

“Abiotic stresses are among the most serious threats to global food production. By understanding the molecular, physiological responses of plants and their interactions with microbes, we can develop resilient crops that withstand the challenges of climate change,” he said.

He further emphasised the importance of cross-species comparisons and metabolite analysis in identifying pathways that improve crop resilience, noting that while plants may share some universal stress responses, they also exhibit unique adaptations depending on genotype and environment.

Dr Ali is currently a Senior Lecturer at the University of Mpumalanga.

Currently, Dr Ali supervises and co-supervises Honours, MSc, and PhD students both locally and internationally. He collaborates on projects funded by the National Research Foundation (NRF) and the German Federal Ministry of Food and Agriculture (BMEL). His ongoing studies also explore innovative approaches, such as the use of beneficial soil microbes and medicinal plant extracts, to enhance crop resistance against stress and pathogens.

Dr Ali holds a BSc Honours in Botany from the University of Khartoum, and an MSc and PhD in Biotechnology from the University of the Western Cape. He has also undertaken research visits to the University of Padova (Italy) and the University of Missouri (USA).

He has published widely in international journals, serves as an active reviewer, and is currently a co-guest editor for a special issue in Plants. In recognition of his teaching contributions, he received the Dean’s Merit Award at UWC in 2025. He also founded the Biochemistry Education Network (BEN), which promotes cross-institutional collaboration in teaching and learning.

Story and pictures by Cleopatra Makhaga. Copyright ©UMP