“Two VUT Chemical Engineering students, Ms Olerato Moobi and Mr Ofentse Mafafo, have been accepted into the Winter University of Engineering Sciences at Peter the Great St. Petersburg Polytechnic University in Russia, taking place from 24 November to 7 December 2025”
02 December 2025 | Story by: Ntebogeleng Digasu | Picture by: Supplied
3 minutes read time.
Two students from the Vaal University of Technology (VUT) have been selected to participate in the Winter University of Engineering Sciences at Peter the Great St Petersburg Polytechnic University in Russia. The programme runs from 24 November to 7 December 2025.
The selected students are Ms Olerato Moobi, an Advanced Diploma student in Chemical Engineering, and Mr Ofentse Mafafo, a Diploma student in Chemical Engineering. Ms Moobi previously participated in a similar international programme at Pskov State University in Russia, further deepening her exposure to global engineering environments.
Their selection followed a rigorous and competitive process that attracted applications from various institutions. Being chosen to represent VUT among an international cohort underscore both the academic excellence of the individuals and the university’s expanding reputation in global engineering education.
The programme offers an intensive learning and collaborative environment where participants engage with emerging engineering concepts, work alongside international peers, and gain meaningful exposure to global academic standards. The experience is expected to strengthen the students’ professional development and reinforce VUT’s presence on the world stage.
According to Ms Delsile Mabuza, Admissions and Registration Officer in International Relations, “VUT staff and students who are interested in exploring similar international exchange opportunities are encouraged to contact the Internationalisation Office. Initiatives like this enable the university to promote international engagement, foster intercultural competence, and strengthen its reputation within the global academic community.”
Reflecting on the trip, Ms Olerato Moobi shared her gratitude. “I am sincerely grateful for being selected to participate in the Winter University Programme in St Petersburg, Russia. It was an honour to represent VUT and engage with like-minded peers from around the world. Over the past week I immersed myself in
Russian culture, attended insightful lectures and took part in meaningful discussions with students from diverse backgrounds. The programme has been a highlight of my academic journey, allowing me to gain new perspectives, develop my language skills and form lasting connections with fellow participants.
“I am especially grateful for the opportunity to be exposed to world class faculty and exceptional facilities at St Petersburg University. This experience has broadened my academic horizons, inspired me to pursue my goals with renewed passion and equipped me with skills that will benefit both my academic and professional career. I extend my heartfelt appreciation to the VUT International Office for making this opportunity possible and look forward to encouraging other students to participate in similar international programmes.”
Mr Ofentse Mafafo, currently completing his service training at a mine while working towards his degree in Chemical Engineering, described the experience as transformative. “I am truly delighted to have had the opportunity to represent VUT in the Winter Programme at Saint Petersburg Polytechnic University and engage with peers from around the world. Over the past week I have had an incredible experience filled with learning, growth and networking opportunities. I immersed myself in Russian culture, attended insightful lectures and interacted with students from diverse backgrounds.
“The programme has been a significant highlight of my academic journey, providing exposure to world class faculty and exceptional facilities. I am excited to apply the knowledge and skills gained from this experience to my studies and future career in the mining industry. I look forward to sharing my experiences with my peers at VUT to inspire others to participate in similar international programmes.”