23 May 2025 | Story: Staff Reporter | Photo: Supplied
3 minutes read time.
The Vaal University of Technology (VUT), through its Centre for Academic Development (CAD), proudly hosted the Siyaphumelela Network Regional Meeting at the Emerald Casino and Resort from 19 to 20 May 2025 under the fitting theme Pathways to Possibility: Celebrating Success Stories. The gathering marked a significant milestone in the collective commitment of higher education institutions to improve student success outcomes through data-informed, collaborative, and student-centred approaches.
The regional meeting brought together esteemed delegates from five partner institutions: the Vaal University of Technology, the University of the Witwatersrand, the University of Johannesburg, North-West University, and the University of Venda. All are active participants within the Siyaphumelela Network, a national initiative dedicated to advancing student success in higher education.
In her welcoming address, Dr Mukondeleli Kanakana-Katumba, Deputy Vice-Chancellor for Teaching, Learning and Quality at VUT, set a warm and purposeful tone, reaffirming the institution’s commitment to academic transformation and the power of partnerships forged through the network.
The programme featured a series of compelling presentations, beginning with Professor Nicole De Wet-Billings, Senior Director of Academic Affairs at Wits. Her keynote address focused on the power of data-informed decision-making to improve student outcomes. She commended the network’s collaborative spirit and its role in driving impactful interventions across institutions.
Adding further inspiration, Professor Nobukhosi Dlodlo, Head of the Department of Marketing, Retail Business and Sport Management at VUT, delivered an insightful keynote on the transformative power of student success initiatives and the value of sharing lived experiences. The keynote sparked robust engagement, with a lively discussion reflecting the shared passion for student success.
A particular highlight was the sharing of success stories and student support strategies by participating institutions. Representing VUT, Ms Tisetso Mohloai, E-learning Manager at CAD, presented the university’s innovations in blended learning, adaptive strategies, and early warning systems.
Other institutions shared initiatives such as mentorship programmes, first-year student transition models, predictive analytics, and digital tools enhancing engagement and academic performance. The diversity of approaches underscored the importance of cross-institutional learning and collaboration.
Notably, the student voice was meaningfully integrated into the event. Three VUT students, Mr Katlego Mahlaba (Advanced Diploma in Metallurgical Engineering), Ms Linda Nsizwane (Diploma in Electrical Engineering), and Mr Carcidio Khoza (Advanced Diploma in Graphic Design and SRC Chief Academic Officer), shared personal experiences of interventions that significantly shaped their academic journeys. Their candid reflections brought authenticity to the discussions and illustrated the real-world impact of student-centred support.
An interactive group activity, facilitated by Mr Mothusi Samosamo, Learning Coordinator at CAD, enabled participants to identify institutional barriers and enablers of student success. This collaborative session encouraged solution-driven dialogue and culminated in the formulation of practical strategies to be implemented within the regional network.
The meeting concluded with a structured reflection session led by Dr Corneli Van Der Walt, First Year Experience Manager at CAD. Delegates provided constructive feedback and proposed actionable recommendations for future meetings. Three working groups, focusing on Data Analytics, Mentorship Programmes, and Student Voice and Engagement, were established to ensure continued progress and impact.
In his closing remarks, Dr Muntuwenkosi Chili, Executive Director of the Centre for Academic Development, applauded the dedication of all participants. He emphasised the importance of continuity, accountability, and innovation in advancing the student success agenda.
“This meeting has not only reaffirmed our shared commitment to the student success mandate but has also deepened our collaborative ties as institutions dedicated to transforming the higher education experience in South Africa,” Dr Chili stated.
The Siyaphumelela Network Regional Meeting at VUT successfully fulfilled its objectives and laid a strong foundation for future collaboration, enriched by meaningful dialogue and a shared commitment to student achievement.
The Centre for Academic Development extends its sincere appreciation to all speakers, students, and delegates for their invaluable contributions. It looks forward to continued partnerships that drive positive change across the higher education landscape.
