“VUT students explored budgeting, saving, investing and responsible borrowing at a financial wellness workshop hosted by the Alumni Office.”
22 October 2026 | Story by: Qhawekazi Memani | Picture: Sifiso Nomzaza
2 minutes read time.
The Vaal University of Technology (VUT) Alumni Office hosted a financial wellness workshop at the Desmond Tutu Great Hall on 16 October 2026, equipping students with practical knowledge to manage their money and prepare for life beyond university.
Welcoming attendees, Mr Olwethu Masombuka, Head of the Alumni Office, encouraged students to make the most of the opportunity to access financial information and guidance. He emphasised that financial knowledge could help them make informed decisions as they transition into employment.
Professor Gauda Maseko, Head of the Accounting Department, highlighted the importance of financial literacy in avoiding unnecessary debt and living within one’s means. He cautioned students about credit offers targeting graduates entering the workplace, warning that access to credit should not be mistaken for financial freedom.
“Being financially literate is important because you need to understand how to manage your money and live within your means,” he said.
A representative from the Professional Provident Society (PPS) led a presentation on financial protection, budgeting, saving and investing. The session also introduced the organisation’s mutual model and explained how financial protection can help individuals prepare for unexpected circumstances affecting their ability to earn an income.
A central message was the importance of managing a first salary carefully. Through examples involving vehicle finance, housing costs and credit card debt, the representative illustrated how financial commitments can quickly absorb a young professional’s earnings.
“I always say to my members: make sure that you live within your means,” the representative advised.
The presentation introduced the 50/30/20 budgeting rule as a planning guide, allocating approximately 50% of income to needs, 30% to wants and 20% to savings and investments. Students were also encouraged to build emergency savings and plan for long-term financial goals.
“If you save today, you will thank yourself tomorrow, because you never know what is going to happen tomorrow,” the representative said.
The workshop reinforced the value of financial discipline, responsible borrowing and early planning. Through the initiative, the Alumni Office encouraged students to develop healthy money habits that support their ambitions beyond the lecture hall.