By: Themba Nyovane – 11 August 2023

Mrs Rochelle Moolman

In honor of this year’s women’s month, the Vaal University of Technology (VUT) will acknowledge the remarkable achievements of its women staff and students by hosting a Women’s day Seminar under the theme: “Women’s Socio-Economic Rights and Empowerment: Building Back Better for Women’s Improved Resilience”. The theme is aligned with the national theme: “Accelerating Socio- Economic Opportunities for Women’s Empowerment” and global campaign for Generation Equality, which stresses the importance of contributing to efforts to achieve gender equality worldwide by 2030.

At VUT, significant strides are being made towards gender equality, recognizing and commending the dedication and commitment of its personnel. One exemplary figure is Mrs. Rochelle Moolman, an Academic Administrator in the Department of Human Resource Management within the Faculty of Management Sciences. She has been working at VUT (previously called Vaal Triangle Technikon) since April 1997.   As a mother of three, Mrs. Moolman exemplifies the importance of gender equality and women’s empowerment in the workplace. She emphasizes that women persistently fight for what they deserve and strive for more, even in male-dominated fields, as seen during graduations when grandmothers and mothers tearfully celebrate their daughters and granddaughters’ achievements.

Mrs Moolman stresses that socio-economic rights play a pivotal role in empowering women across various sectors, and in the pursuit of equality, resilience is essential. With these rights in place, women can leave a positive impact on the spheres they operate in. She actively supports initiatives, programs, and community projects aimed at economically empowering women. One of her success stories involves mentoring a young lady who recently became an Advocate at the Pretoria High Courts – a moment that filled Mrs. Moolman with immense pride.

While acknowledging the challenges women face, Mrs. Moolman firmly believes that women are not weaker than men; they are merely wired differently. “To build a more inclusive and resilient society post-pandemic, active participation and the amplification of women’s voices are essential,” she said. She also emphasizes the need for collaboration among policymakers and relevant key stakeholders to protect and promote women’s socio-economic rights, allowing them to continue leading and empowering various industries and spheres.

“As women are increasingly provided with opportunities and a seat at the table, progress and positive change become inevitable. There are no limits to what women can accomplish, and by supporting each other, they can confidently wear their crowns and achieve greatness,” she says.

At VUT, celebrating women’s excellence and driving towards gender equality is a shared commitment that contributes to a brighter future for all and the University looks forward to a celebration of these remarkable women soon.