“Discover how VUT engaged stakeholders at the 2025 Data Governance Framework Workshop to collaboratively build a student-centred data governance framework—the foundation for improved academic support and institutional accountability.”
10 November 2025 | Story: Qhawekazi Memani | Photo: Supplied
From 3 to 4 November 2025, the Vaal University of Technology (VUT) Centre for Academic Development (CAD) hosted a two-day Data Governance Framework Workshop, marking a significant milestone in the university’s journey towards becoming a truly student-centred institution, as envisioned in its Strategy 2033+.
The workshop brought together key stakeholders from across the university, including representatives from Information Technology (IT) Services, Co-operative Education, the Registrar’s Office, the Library, and various academic faculties.
The primary aim was to collaboratively develop a comprehensive Data Governance Framework that supports effective student success interventions through structured data management, clear accountability, and evidence-based decision making.
In her welcoming address, Dr Mukondeleli Grace Kanakana Katumba, Deputy Vice-Chancellor for Teaching and Learning, emphasised the importance of accurate data collection and analysis. She stated: “It is very important to collect data and analyse it correctly. Our goal is to support students to pass, not just to do reactive measures.”
Adding to this, Ms Tisetso Mohloai, VUT E-Learning Manager and workshop lead, underscored the university’s commitment to data driven transformation, noting: “This proactive approach reflects VUT’s ongoing commitment to leveraging data strategically to enhance student success and academic outcomes. If we work together, grounded on this foundation, we will see meaningful progress in ensuring data driven support for our students.”
Over the course of the two days, participants collaborated to shape the data governance framework through open dialogue and active engagement across departments. This inclusive approach promoted shared ownership and ensured the emerging framework aligns with VUT’s broader strategic priorities.
Several departments delivered insightful presentations showcasing their contributions to data governance and student-centred innovation. These included IT Services, Institutional Learning and Teaching, and the E-Learning Unit. The presentations highlighted how data is currently being utilised across the university and how improved governance can strengthen academic support, drive digital transformation, and enhance institutional accountability.
Reflecting on the collaborative nature of the workshop, Ms Veronica Cathing, Lecturer in IT, shared: “The workshop united different departments in a common goal of improving data quality and governance to support students better.”
Mr Rachidi Mediamere Lucas, Senior Systems Analyst in IT Services, described the initiative as a vital step towards embedding data as a strategic asset. He explained: “The initiative provides the essential blueprint VUT needs to transition from simply storing data to managing it strategically as a core institutional asset. A well-structured data governance framework will enable the university to ensure data integrity across systems, from student records in ITS to research outputs and financial information, empowering leadership to make confident, evidence-based decisions.”
He further added: “By establishing clear ownership, standardised definitions, and quality controls, this framework will help break down the data silos that currently hinder a holistic view of our operations. It will foster a culture of trust in our data and position VUT for greater agility, accountability, and impact in the higher education landscape.”
In her closing remarks, Ms Elizabeth Booi, Siyaphumelela Coach and Head of Business Intelligence at the University of the Western Cape (UWC), reminded attendees that collaboration remains the key to success, stating: “Building a university framework is not a one man show; everyone should be accountable.”
The workshop concluded with a renewed sense of shared purpose, reaffirming VUT’s commitment to establishing a robust, student centred data governance framework that will drive innovation, accountability, and excellence in teaching and learning.