“Vaal University of Technology (VUT) recognises 60 top-performing learners from Free State and Gauteng schools as Mavuti Ambassadors, reinforcing its 60-year legacy and commitment to academic excellence and future leadership.”
24 February 2026 | Story by: Ntebogeleng Digasu | Picture by: Sifiso Nomzaza
As part of its Road to 60 celebrations, the Vaal University of Technology (VUT) has identified and formally recognised 60 outstanding learners from six schools across the Free State and Gauteng, positioning them as the first cohort of “Mavuti Ambassadors” in a flagship legacy initiative.
The selection took place on 27 and 28 January and again on 24 February 2026, forming part of a strategic recruitment and partnership programme designed to honour academic excellence while strengthening long term institutional relationships with schools.
The participating schools include Mohloli Maritime School of Specialisation, Thuto Ke Lesedi Technical High School, Cedar Secondary School, Nkgopoleng Secondary School, Suncrest High School and Curro Vanderbijlpark.
Rather than a ceremonial gesture, the initiative signals a forward-looking commitment. By recognising high-performing learners from Grades 10, 11, and 12, VUT is investing early in talent, affirming its role not only as a destination for higher learning, but as an active partner in shaping South Africa’s next generation of professionals and innovators.
The selected learners were officially inducted into the University’s 60-year legacy programme and bestowed the title “Mavuti Ambassadors”, symbolising their place within the institution’s evolving story.
Addressing the learners, Ms Juliet Hector, Senior Administrator: Student Recruitment, emphasised the significance of the moment: “You have been selected as top achievers. Your inclusion in this programme means you are part of VUT’s living legacy. We are not only celebrating 60 years of existence, we are shaping the next 60 with you.”
Recruitment Officer Mr Sennanyane Masike reinforced this message, highlighting that the initiative reflects the University’s deliberate strategy to build meaningful academic pipelines.
“Today marks more than recognition. It marks responsibility. As Mavuti Ambassadors, you carry the spirit of excellence associated with VUT’s 60-year journey.”
Student Recruitment Practitioner Ms Dimakatso Motaung encouraged learners to see the recognition as a beginning rather than a conclusion: “The future is yours. This is not the end of the journey. It is the start of a partnership with VUT.”
Ms Lucy Mohoto, Student Recruitment HOD (Acting), reminded the learners to embrace their new role as “Ambassadors” of the Vaal University of Technology, encouraging them to represent the institution with pride, excellence, and integrity in their respective schools and communities.
Ms Morongwe Miya also attended the event in support of the initiative. As part of the programme, gifts were handed over to the principals of the six schools in appreciation of their continued collaboration and commitment to academic excellence and their valued partnership with the University.
The programme also acknowledged the critical role played by school leadership and Life Orientation educators. Principals and teachers received appreciation gifts in recognition of their sustained commitment to academic development and collaboration with the University.
For the learners, the recognition carries personal significance. Ms Mbalendle Brown described the experience as transformative: “Being selected as one of the 60 learners is a great honour. It reminds me that hard work has value and that I am part of something bigger than myself.”
Mr Katlego Mohale echoed this sentiment: “Being recognised gives me confidence. It confirms that my goals are achievable and that VUT sees potential in us.”
Through this initiative, VUT is not merely celebrating its history. It is extending its legacy into classrooms, communities and future lecture halls.
In its 60th year, the University’s message is clear: excellence is recognised, partnerships are valued, and the next generation is already part of the story.