“VUT, in partnership with Wits Business School, celebrates the 2025 Executive Development Programme, building ethical, agile leaders for its 2033+ digital strategy.”
2 September 2025 | Story By: Tayron Mhlongo | Picture: Supplied
3 minutes read time.
On 29 August 2025, staff members of the Vaal University of Technology (VUT) gathered at Wits Business School (WBS) in Parktown to celebrate a milestone: the successful completion of the Executive Development Programme (EDP). This ceremony marked a proud moment for 14 dedicated staff members who had invested time and effort into building their leadership capabilities. It was not merely a formality, but a celebration of growth, learning, and the emergence of leaders prepared to navigate a rapidly changing world.
The essence of the EDP lies in its mission to cultivate leadership skills across both academic and support staff. Leadership is not confined to formal titles; it is a discipline to be nurtured and demonstrated throughout the institution. VUT deliberately chose WBS as its partner in this critical development journey. The school is renowned for shaping leaders who are agile, ethical, and equipped to create positive impact in an era defined by disruption and change.
Professor Maurice Radebe, Director and Head of WBS, captured this vision, saying: “At Wits Business School, we are all about leadership development, specifically equipping leaders with the skills to manage the challenges of a world of disruption and change. At the heart of the mission is to graduate agile and ethical leaders who will positively impact the world.”
At the ceremony, Ms Khanyisa Hanisi, Executive Director of Human Resources at VUT, expressed gratitude for the unwavering support of Vice-Chancellor and Principal, Prof Khehla Ndlovu, whose commitment ensured the programme’s success. Ms Hanisi stressed the importance of putting leadership into practice, encouraging graduates to apply their newly acquired skills within their departments.
She urged them to consider the institution’s return on investment: “VUT’s new Strategy 2033+ and beyond is centred on driving digital transformation. This programme is your opportunity to challenge yourselves even more.” She explained that as one advances, leadership extends beyond technical expertise: “Leadership is about inspiring and
guiding people to become their best version. It is about shaping talent and fostering an environment where innovation and ethical decision-making flourish.”
The certification was more than a recognition of effort. It symbolised a crucial step towards building a culture of continuous growth and development. Effective leadership evolves, requiring new skills and perspectives to remain relevant and impactful.
Mr Yagesh Naidoo, recipient of the Top Student award, reflected on the journey: “This programme changed our mindset about many things. It was a great opportunity, very challenging yet enjoyable.” His words underscored the demanding yet fulfilling nature of leadership development, where growth emerges through embracing new ways of thinking.
The programme also reinforced the importance of teamwork. Graduates learned that leadership is not about authority but about embodying values and principles that inspire others to excel.
These emerging leaders now stand prepared to make meaningful contributions to VUT’s future. Armed with knowledge, skills, and ethical grounding, they are ready to shape an environment of service, growth, and positive influence, bringing the university’s Strategy 2033+ vision closer to reality.