17 March 2025 | Story: Nontobeko Moimane | Photo: Naledi Nkosi
2 minutes read time.
Vanderbijlpark, South Africa – The Vaal University of Technology (VUT) proudly announces the official installation of Prof Stephen Khehla Ndlovu as its Vice-Chancellor and Principal. Prof Ndlovu was appointed as Vice-Chancellor in February 2024, and his leadership has already set the university on a path of transformation. The installation ceremony, held at Desmond Tutu Hall, Vanderbijlpark, brought together distinguished guests, including government officials, industry leaders, higher education stakeholders, faculty, students, and alumni.
In his inaugural address, Prof Ndlovu outlined a bold vision for VUT, focusing on academic excellence, research innovation, infrastructure development, industry partnerships, and student success. He reaffirmed his commitment to restoring integrity and good governance, positioning VUT as a leader in higher education and technological innovation.
A Vision for Transformation and Innovation
Prof Ndlovu highlighted the university’s rich legacy, from its origins in 1966 as the Vaal Triangle College for Advanced Technical Education to its evolution into a fully-fledged University of Technology in 2004. Acknowledging past governance challenges, he declared this installation as the dawn of a new era of stability, accountability, and excellence.
“VUT stands at the threshold of transformation. We have emerged stronger and more determined to become a centre of academic excellence, research, and innovation. Our focus is to develop techno-entrepreneurial graduates who will drive sustainable socio-economic development,” he said.
Strategic Focus Areas: Building a Future-Ready VUT
Prof Ndlovu presented VUT Strategy 2033+, a long-term roadmap to solidify the university’s role in technological education, industrial development, and social impact. The strategy prioritises:
✅ Academic Excellence – Strengthening curriculum offerings, increasing PhD-qualified faculty, and fostering a research-driven culture.
✅ Research & Innovation – Establishing cutting-edge research centres in artificial intelligence, renewable energy, and advanced manufacturing.
✅ Infrastructure & Student Experience – Expanding student housing, learning spaces, and digital transformation across campuses.
Financial Sustainability & Governance – Enhancing financial management, securing strategic industry partnerships, and boosting third-stream income.
✅ Community & Industry Engagement – Strengthening ties with industry giants like Sasol, South32 and ArcelorMittal and expanding global academic collaborations.
A Call to Action
Prof Ndlovu emphasised the role of faculty, students, alumni, and partners in shaping VUT’s future. “We must work together to create a university that not only keeps pace with global trends but actively shapes the future of higher education, industry, and society,” he said.
Since his appointment in February 2024, Prof Ndlovu has spearheaded key initiatives to improve governance, academic quality, and financial sustainability at VUT. His official installation marks the continuation of this transformation journey, reinforcing the university’s mission to be a beacon of innovation, opportunity, and societal impact in South Africa and beyond.
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