27 March 2025 | Story: Qhawekazi Memani | Photo: Naledi Nkosi.
3 minutes read time.
The Vaal University of Technology (VUT) is proud to announce the recent appointment of Professor Prof Solly Lebelo as the new Head of the Department (HoD) of Physical Sciences. With an extensive academic background and years of experience in teaching and leadership, Prof Lebelo is set to guide the department towards new heights of excellence and innovation.
Prof Lebelo currently holds the Associate Professor of Applied Mathematics position in the Applied Physical Sciences Department within the Faculty of Applied and Computer Sciences. His academic journey began with a Bachelor of Science in Education, BSc (Ed), MTech (Mathematical Technology), and a DTech (Mechanical Engineering-Computational Fluid Dynamics). He started his career as a mathematics teacher at the secondary school and college of education levels before transitioning into the university sector. Prof Lebelo’s academic career has taken him through various institutions, including Midrand University, Tshwane University of Technology (TUT), and VUT, where he has been a valued member of the academic community since 2010.
Reflecting on his journey at VUT, Prof Lebelo recalls the key moments that prepared him for this leadership role. “I started at VUT as a mathematics lecturer, and in 2017, I took on my first leadership role as a line manager for a visiting lecturer. This led to increased research outputs within the department,” said Prof Lebelo.
He added: “In 2018, I joined the newly established Education Department in the Human Sciences Faculty, where I led the mathematics division, coordinated the teaching practice (WIL) for the BEd programme, and contributed to developing the master’s degree.
“These experiences have shaped my leadership approach and prepared me for my new role as HoD,” he said.
When asked what motivated him to take on the position of HoD in the Department of Physical Sciences, Prof Lebelo shared, “The department has significant potential for growth. There is a need to increase research capacity, improve student success rates—especially in mathematics and physics—and to develop new programmes. Currently, the department offers only one programme, Non-Destructive Testing (NDT), and I aim to diversify and expand the academic offerings.”
As HoD, Prof Lebelo intends to leverage the department’s strengths while creating an environment of collaboration, innovation, and academic growth. “Motivating staff to pursue higher academic qualifications, enhance research skills, and engage with the community is key,” he explained. “Also, cultivating a healthy and supportive working environment will encourage idea-sharing, open communication, and respect among staff, which is essential for achieving our goals.”
Prof Lebelo’s passion for the Physical Sciences is evident in his commitment to inspiring students. “Mathematics and physical sciences are at the core of many careers in science, technology, and engineering. I want to inspire students by showing them how these subjects apply to real-world situations and how they can help them achieve their career goals,” he said. “Lecturers also have a role in making these subjects accessible and enjoyable, fostering a creative and engaging learning environment that motivates students to excel.”
As he steps into this new leadership role, Prof Lebelo’s message to students and colleagues is mutual respect and understanding. “Respect and understanding are essential for building strong relationships within the academic community. Let us listen to each other, work collaboratively, and create an environment where all of us can succeed,” he emphasised.
With his experience, vision, and commitment to teaching and research, Prof Solly Lebelo is well-positioned to lead the Department of Physical Sciences at VUT into a new era of growth, innovation, and excellence.
