“The Vaal University of Technology (VUT) hosted a Tourism Stakeholder Symposium on 5 November 2025, uniting tourism experts, academics, and students to promote collaboration, innovation, and sustainable development in the Vaal region.”
11 November 2025 | Story: Ntebogeleng Digasu | Photo: Keitumetse MokgopeÂ
4 minutes read time.
A vibrant Tourism Stakeholder Symposium took place at the Vaal University of Technology (VUT) on 5 November 2025, bringing together tourism experts, academics, students, and community representatives to explore collaboration, innovation, and sustainable tourism development in the Vaal region. The event underscored the shared responsibility of rebuilding the region’s tourism identity through partnership and collective action.
The day began with Programme Director, Mr Thabo Khupa, who warmly welcomed attendees and encouraged them to engage meaningfully, make connections, and strengthen professional networks.
Among the keynote speakers was Dr Limpho Lekaota, Head of Department for Tourism and Integrated Communication, who emphasised the importance of collaboration among tourism stakeholders. She expressed appreciation that academics were included in the dialogue, stating, “In tourism, we need to work together; we cannot succeed if we work alone.” Dr Lekaota also acknowledged challenges facing the university, including the revival of the tourism centre, and assured participants of ongoing efforts to drive positive change.
Mr Joseph Norman Radebe, Director of Community Engagement, delivered an insightful presentation highlighting the historical significance of the Vaal’s tourism landmarks such as the Sharpeville Massacre site, the Boipatong Museum, and other heritage destinations linked to the signing of South Africa’s Constitution. He expressed concern over the poor maintenance of these sites, attributing it to fragmented efforts. “If we work together, we can bring change to the Vaal,” he said.
Sharing her journey, Mrs Mmatshepo Mathumbo, Assistant Manager for Tourism at the municipality, reflected on her Sharpeville roots and 16 years in local government. Since joining the department in 2022, she has been instrumental in rebuilding the Tourism Division after several years without leadership. She urged participants to take themselves seriously, embrace training opportunities, and play an active role in community development. Mrs Mathumbo proudly mentioned that the municipality had recently welcomed a visually impaired VUT tourism student, Ms Nomsa Radebe, demonstrating its commitment to inclusivity.
The programme also featured a moving poem by Mnikazi We Peni, which stirred deep emotion among attendees.
In his address, Mr Thabo Mahlatsi, CEO of Destination Mzansi, encouraged continued research and the integration of artificial intelligence (AI) in tourism studies. “We are doing research until we grow grey; we need to keep up with AI and make the Vaal great again,” he said.
Mr Mputle Dikobo, Trade and Partnership Manager at Gauteng Tourism Authority, spoke about the power of storytelling in tourism promotion. He highlighted the Vaal’s hidden treasures such as Maccauvlei and remarked, “Together we can thrive if we tell our stories proudly.”
Adding a cultural and environmental perspective, Mr Thabo Heru Matsafu, a spiritual, agroecology, heritage, and restoration activist representing the House of Maat, called for traditional ceremonies and river clean-up initiatives. “We cannot wait for the municipality forever; the rivers need to be cleaned,” he urged.
Echoing this spirit of empowerment, Mr Thato Mothopeng, National Convener of The South African Township and Village Tourism Association (SATOVITO), asserted that “the Vaal is not dead.” He encouraged VUT lecturers and students to value their capabilities, compete confidently, and embrace their potential.
Further emphasising the role of technology, Mr Lebo Ramashu from Khathorus Kgotso Tourism and founder of Topnology, discussed the transformative role of AI in the tourism industry. Meanwhile, Mr Karabo Mashoete, Senior Manager for Tourism Stakeholders at Kruger National Park, highlighted the importance of environmental stewardship and stakeholder collaboration. He also offered to return as a guest lecturer to inspire and mentor VUT tourism students.
VUT tourism students Mr Mbatha Axhawe and Ms Aphiwe Mdaka expressed gratitude for the opportunity to engage directly with industry leaders. They suggested that such symposiums be held more frequently, particularly at the beginning of the academic year, to inspire first-year students.
The symposium concluded with closing remarks from Mr Thabo Mahlatsi, who expressed heartfelt gratitude to all participants. He reaffirmed that through unity, innovation, and collaboration, the Vaal can once again thrive as a dynamic and inclusive tourism destination.