“An Eskom laboratory equipment donation strengthens practical learning at VUT through a partnership led by Student Academic Development Support and WIL.”
22 October 2026 | Story by: Ntebogeleng Digasu| Picture: Keitumetse Mokgope
Metsotso e 3 nako ya go bala.
Students in the Faculty of Applied and Computer Sciences at the Vaal University of Technology (VUT) will have greater access to laboratory resources following a donation of scientific equipment from Eskom.
The donation includes laboratory glassware, a microscope, heaters and other scientific instruments to support practical teaching and help students apply the knowledge they acquire in lectures.
The handover took place on 14 October 2026 at Auditorium 100 at VUT, bringing together University and Eskom representatives to strengthen a partnership focused on practical learning and workplace preparation.
The initiative was driven by VUT’s Student Academic Development Support and Work-Integrated Learning (WIL). Mr Edwin Mabaelane, VUT Liaison Officer, initiated and coordinated the engagement with Eskom, helping secure resources that respond to students’ learning needs.
Mr Teboho Motorolo, a VUT technician, welcomed the donation, explaining that it would increase laboratory capacity and give students access to some equipment that had previously been unavailable.
Mr Lefaso Hlapane, Chairperson of Eskom’s Corporate Social Investment (CSI) team, said the partnership sought to help students learn through practical experience. He explained that laboratory demonstrations enable students to connect theoretical knowledge with processes they can observe and undertake themselves.
He added that Eskom’s responsibility as a state-owned entity extends beyond electricity provision to supporting education, skills development and stronger communities.
Mr Hlapane also highlighted Eskom’s wider educational engagement in the Vaal region, including a winter programme for matric pupils delivered in partnership with VUT and the Department of Education. The donation builds on this work by supporting young people as they progress from school to higher education and the workplace.
Professor Solly Lebelo, Acting Dean of the Faculty of Applied and Computer Sciences, welcomed the contribution and emphasised the importance of sustained collaboration between universities and industry.
“Universities alone cannot succeed. We really need industry to come and work with us,” Professor Lebelo said.
He explained that such partnerships help students translate theoretical knowledge into practical skills. He also encouraged further collaboration through guest lectures, shared research and other opportunities that bring industry experience into the learning environment.
Mr Harry Sewsunker, Eskom’s Acting General Manager, emphasised that the donation should result in equipment that students can use.
“We are not only handing over, but we must make sure that the equipment is installed and operational,” Mr Sewsunker said.
He expressed interest in strengthening Eskom’s relationship with VUT, including opportunities for experienced industry personnel to share their knowledge with students.
Mr Simthembile Mahlasela, Senior Supervisor: Chemistry at Eskom and a VUT alumnus, demonstrated some of the donated equipment and explained its applications in scientific testing and analysis. His participation highlighted the contribution alumni can make by connecting their industry experience with the development of future graduates.
Dr Annie Moletsane, Director of Student Academic Development Support and WIL, thanked the colleagues who initiated and supported the engagement.
“I would like to thank my colleagues who initiated this process. They understand that the needs of our students must always come first, and they remain committed to ensuring that we respond to those needs,” Dr Moletsane said.
Dr Tara Walmsley, Head of the Department of Natural Sciences, also welcomed the donation, saying it would enrich practical learning and strengthen students’ ability to apply theoretical knowledge in a laboratory setting.
The partnership demonstrates how industry engagement can translate into tangible support for teaching and learning. By expanding access to laboratory resources, the donation will help VUT students build the technical skills and practical experience they need for their future careers.