“The Vaal University of Technology celebrated outstanding student excellence at the 2025 Student Life Achievement Awards, hosted at Sebokeng Campus. The event honoured exceptional leadership, innovation, and community service among VUT students, featuring performances, speeches, and inspiration from university leaders.”
04 November 2025 | Story: Tshepiso Kaibe | Photo: Naledi Nkosi
3 minutes read time.
The Vaal University of Technology (VUT) came alive with celebration and pride on Thursday, 30 October 2025, as the Student Support Services Department hosted the prestigious Student Life Achievement Awards at the Sebokeng Campus, Science Park. The evening recognised outstanding student leaders, athletes, creatives, and societies who have made remarkable contributions to the holistic student experience at VUT.
Guests were welcomed by the vibrant cultural sounds and rhythms of Bana ba Basotho, whose traditional songs and dances set an energetic and festive tone for the evening.
The formal proceedings began with the singing of the National Anthem, followed by a warm welcome from Mr Scelo Mahlalela, Deputy Vice-Chancellor: Resources and Planning. In his address, Mr Mahlalela expressed his enthusiasm for celebrating VUT’s student achievements and highlighted the importance of co-curricular activities in developing well-rounded graduates.
“The Student Life Achievement Awards is a special occasion where we gather to recognise the hard work and sacrifices of our students. Even amid economic and social challenges, our students continue to embody excellence and resilience,” he said.
VUT Vice-Chancellor and Principal, Professor Khehla Ndlovu, delivered an inspiring message commending students for their innovation, leadership, and determination. His remarks reaffirmed the university’s commitment to enhancing student life through academic excellence and infrastructure development.
“VUT is not just a place of learning; it is a home for all who walk through its gates,” said Prof Ndlovu. “Our goal is to build a university of the future, one that is technologically advanced, socially conscious, and academically formidable.”
The highlight of the evening was the awards segment, which recognised excellence across academic, cultural, social, and sporting categories. Among the accolades presented were Community Engagement, Environmental Stewardship, Gender Equality and Women’s Empowerment, and Sports Awards.
Notable winners included Keneilwe Thabethe (Community Engagement), Karabo Tsoeu (Gender Equality and Entrepreneurship of the Year), the Green Campus Initiative (Environmental Stewardship), and Carcidio Khoza, who received the coveted Flagship Award for exemplary leadership and service.
The evening was enlivened by captivating performances from talented VUT students, including poets Savonnika Pett and Cynthia Nyembe, dancers Logo ke MC and Lala, the dynamic Wandile Kool, and soulful vocalist Rio. Their performances brought rhythm, artistry, and emotion to the celebration.
Delivering the keynote address, Mr Rakhomo Mokhoke inspired the audience with a message of self-mastery and ambition.
“When you stop growing, you start dying,” he said. “You were born loaded, but it is your responsibility to die empty, having used every gift, every talent within you. Don’t settle for being a local champion; aim to be the best everywhere.”
Closing the evening, Mr Musa Mpanza, Acting Executive Director: Student Support Services, delivered a heartfelt vote of thanks, acknowledging the organisers, performers, and attendees. He congratulated the award recipients for embodying the spirit of leadership, resilience, and excellence that defines the VUT student community.