“VUT’s 2nd Academic Leadership Workshop gathered key stakeholders to enhance leadership, teaching, and student success in line with Strategy 2033+.”
04 November 2025 | Story:Tayron Mhlongo | Photo: Peter Masela
2 minutes read time.
On 27 October 2025, the Vaal University of Technology (VUT) hosted its second Academic Leadership Workshop at the VUT Conference Centre, an initiative designed to strengthen and empower the institution’s academic leadership across faculties and support divisions.
The workshop brought together key internal and external stakeholders, including the Executive Director of Human Resources, the Registrar, representatives from the Information Technology (IT) Department, Student Support Services (SSS), Faculty Deans, and guest speakers from EduSource and the University of Pretoria (UP). The session was facilitated by Dr Muntuwenkosi Chili, Executive Director of the Centre for Academic Development (CAD).
Dr Grace Kanakana-Katumba, VUT’s Deputy Vice-Chancellor for Teaching and Learning, expressed gratitude to the participants, describing them as “pillars and stewards of the Academic Project.” She underscored the value of collaboration, leadership, and institutional support in shaping an environment where students can thrive.
“This programme is part of VUT’s ongoing efforts to strengthen academic leadership capacity. We aim to reflect on how leadership, policy, and support systems come together to enhance student retention, learning outcomes, and institutional performance,” said Dr Kanakana-Katumba.
Presentations throughout the workshop were aligned with VUT’s Strategy 2033+, focusing on the Teaching and Learning Strategic Plan, data-driven approaches to student success, governance and accountability within policy frameworks, IT services, and student life and governance.
A recurring theme was the shared responsibility for the academic mission and student success. Participants noted that success extends beyond graduation rates, it encompasses how students feel recognised, supported, and inspired during their academic journey. The discussions highlighted the pivotal role of institutional data in shaping effective teaching practices and guiding timely interventions.
In interactive consultation sessions, academic leaders responsible for teaching and learning engaged in robust discussions and collaborative planning to reimagine VUT’s academic landscape for the next five years.
The workshop concluded with a call to action: for all academic leaders to manage the teaching and learning portfolio with integrity, accountability, and vision, nurturing techno-entrepreneurial graduates and producing high-calibre professionals who will make meaningful contributions across industries.