{"id":39375,"date":"2026-07-21T13:19:51","date_gmt":"2026-07-21T13:19:51","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/vut.ac.za\/?p=39375"},"modified":"2026-07-21T19:05:34","modified_gmt":"2026-07-21T19:05:34","slug":"from-vut-graduate-to-education-leader-tshephang-phasha-sekhukhune-is-shaping-tomorrows-classrooms","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/vut.ac.za\/nso\/from-vut-graduate-to-education-leader-tshephang-phasha-sekhukhune-is-shaping-tomorrows-classrooms\/","title":{"rendered":"From VUT graduate to education leader: Tshephang ‘Phasha’ Sekhukhune is shaping tomorrow’s classrooms"},"content":{"rendered":"

“VUT alumnus Tshephang ‘Phasha’ Sekhukhune reflects on how his education at the University inspired a career dedicated to teacher development, educational leadership and empowering learners.”<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

21 July 2026 | Story by: Nontobeko Moimane | Picture: Supplied<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

5 minutes read time.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"From
VUT alumnus Mr Tshephang \u2018Phasha\u2019 Sekhukhune<\/strong><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Every great teacher leaves a lasting impact far beyond the classroom. For Vaal University of Technology (VUT) alumnus Mr Tshephang “Phasha” Sekhukhune, teaching is more than a profession. It is a calling to inspire learners, strengthen schools and empower fellow educators. His journey from VUT student to respected instructional leader reflects a deep belief that education remains one of the most powerful tools for transforming communities.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

A proud graduate of VUT’s Bachelor of Education (BEd) programme, Mr Sekhukhune has built a career rooted in educational excellence, innovation and service. Today, he teaches Physical Sciences, Mathematics and Computer Applications Technology (CAT) at Phafane Secondary School, where he also heads the Mathematics, Sciences, Technology and ICT Department. Alongside his professional responsibilities, he is pursuing a Master’s degree in Education at the University of Johannesburg, researching how instructional leadership and technology can strengthen teacher development in rural schools.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

His work is driven by a simple but powerful purpose.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

“My career has been driven by a commitment to improving educational outcomes, supporting teacher development, and creating opportunities for learners in underserved communities.”<\/p>\n\n\n\n

For Mr Sekhukhune, VUT offered far more than an academic qualification. It gave him the confidence, practical experience and values needed to thrive in the teaching profession.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Reflecting on his time at the University, he says the balance between academic theory and practical teaching experience prepared him for the realities of the classroom.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

“VUT equipped me with both the academic knowledge and practical teaching experience required to enter the profession with confidence. The integration of theory and teaching practice helped me develop sound classroom management, curriculum delivery and professional ethics.”<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Beyond technical knowledge, he believes the University nurtured qualities that continue to shape his leadership journey.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

“The University cultivated critical thinking, resilience and leadership qualities that continue to guide my career.”<\/p>\n\n\n\n

It was also during his years at VUT that his passion for educational technology began to take shape. What started as an interest during his undergraduate studies has since evolved into the focus of his postgraduate research, where he explores how technology can enhance professional development for teachers, particularly in rural schools.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Choosing VUT was an easy decision because of its reputation for producing graduates who are ready for the world of work.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

“I was attracted by its emphasis on practical learning and innovation.”<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Looking back, some of his most treasured memories include teaching practice placements that brought theory to life, engaging lecturers who challenged him to think differently, serving in student leadership and forming friendships that have endured long after graduation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Those experiences, he says, shaped not only the teacher he has become but also the leader he continues to aspire to be.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

As an alumnus, Mr Sekhukhune has taken pride in watching his alma mater grow into a University recognised for academic excellence, research, innovation and meaningful community engagement.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

He is particularly encouraged by VUT’s continued investment in digital learning, research and innovation while remaining committed to producing graduates equipped to solve real world challenges.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

“It is encouraging to see the University producing graduates who are making meaningful contributions across different sectors.”<\/p>\n\n\n\n

He believes the University’s emphasis on practical learning and community engagement remains one of its defining strengths.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Looking ahead, Mr Sekhukhune believes higher education institutions must continue embracing emerging technologies while strengthening partnerships with schools, industry and communities.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

He hopes VUT will continue investing in educational technology, artificial intelligence and innovative teaching methods to ensure graduates remain globally competitive while addressing local development challenges.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Although his professional journey continues to evolve, he remains passionate about giving back to the institution that helped shape his career.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

He hopes to mentor aspiring educators, contribute to alumni initiatives, collaborate on research projects and support leadership development programmes.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

“Giving back to the institution that helped shape my career would be both a privilege and a responsibility.”<\/p>\n\n\n\n

For him, investing in future educators is simply another way of extending his impact beyond his own classroom.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Drawing on his own experiences, Mr Sekhukhune encourages current and prospective students to embrace discipline, curiosity and lifelong learning.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

“Take your studies seriously, remain disciplined, and never stop learning beyond the classroom.”<\/p>\n\n\n\n

He reminds students that while qualifications open doors, personal values determine how far they will go.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

“Your qualification opens the door, but your character, integrity and willingness to keep learning will determine how far you go.”<\/p>\n\n\n\n

He also encourages students to build meaningful relationships with lecturers and fellow students, think critically, read widely and strive to leave every environment better than they found it.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

As VUT marks 60 years of transforming lives through education, Mr Sekhukhune believes the University’s greatest achievement lies not only in its academic programmes but in the generations of graduates who continue to serve society with integrity and excellence.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

“Congratulations to the Vaal University of Technology on this remarkable milestone of 60 years. Thank you for shaping generations of graduates who continue to serve South Africa and the world with excellence.”<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Looking to the future, he hopes VUT will continue inspiring ethical leaders and innovators who are prepared to address society’s most pressing challenges.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

“May the University continue to inspire thought, develop ethical leaders, and produce graduates who are committed to innovation, service and lifelong learning.”<\/p>\n\n\n\n

His message to fellow alumni and current students is both simple and inspiring.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

“Never underestimate the impact you can make. Carry the values of VUT with pride, pursue excellence in everything you do, and continue building a legacy that future generations will be proud to inherit.”<\/p>\n\n\n\n

As VUT celebrates its Diamond Jubilee, Mr Sekhukhune exemplifies the University’s enduring mission of Inspiring Thought and Shaping Talent. His story is a reminder that the true measure of a university is not only the qualifications it awards, but also the lives its graduates continue to shape. Through every learner he inspires, every teacher he mentors and every school he helps strengthen, Mr Sekhukhune is carrying forward VUT’s legacy of excellence, innovation and service, one classroom at a time.<\/p>","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"

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