“VUT hosted a two-day onboarding session for new employees, introducing them to senior leaders, key departments and the University’s Strategy 2033+.”
04 August 2026 | Story by: Tayron Mhlongo | Picture: Sifiso Nomzaza
4 minutes read time.
Professor Khehla Ndlovu, Vice-Chancellor and Principal of VUT, welcomes newly appointed employees to the institution.
The Vaal University of Technology (VUT), through its Human Resources Department, hosted a two-day onboarding session at the VUT Conference Centre from 29 to 30 July 2026. The programme welcomed new employees and was designed not only to introduce them to the institution, but also to immerse them in the values, culture and strategic direction that shape VUT’s future.
The session came at a meaningful time for the University, following its diamond jubilee celebration, which marked 60 years of academic excellence, growth and service. Addressing the new employees, Vice-Chancellor and Principal Professor Khehla Ndlovu reflected on the University’s history while emphasising the importance of collective effort in driving its next chapter.
He reminded staff that the institution’s success depends on unity, collaboration and shared responsibility across departments. “Each of us has a responsibility not only to do our own work well, but also to support one another so that together we deliver the best possible service,” he said.
Professor Ndlovu added: “Much better together and together we will build the future of this University.”
He assured the recruits that they would receive the support needed to succeed in their roles, noting that universities are dynamic environments shaped by opportunities and challenges. He encouraged them to approach demanding periods, tight deadlines and unexpected setbacks with positivity, a willingness to learn and a commitment to supporting one another.
The message reflected VUT’s commitment to building a resilient and collaborative institutional culture, guided by a shared determination to advance the University’s mission.
The new employees expressed enthusiasm about joining the VUT community and contributing to its future. Dr Prince Sekwatlakwatla, Senior Lecturer in the Department of Computer Science, said he was eager to make a positive contribution.
“I’m looking forward to adding value to the University, adding value to students so they can learn a lot from us,” he said. “As an academic staff member, I’m looking forward to investing positively in VUT’s vision and mission.”
Ms Nellylyn Moyo, a lecturer in the Faculty of Applied and Computer Science, said the onboarding experience helped her feel connected and informed.
“This has enabled us to know which door to knock on. I could see some of the names in the email, but now I could put faces to the names,” she said. “There was also clarity offered on different questions that we have had all along. It was an informative session.”
The onboarding programme introduced new employees to key institutional leaders and portfolios across the University. Presentations were delivered by senior staff responsible for operations and logistics, finance, strategy, teaching and learning, research and innovation, human resources,
transformation, academic development, information technology, procurement, risk management, employee relations, and policy, fraud and ethics.
The programme gave new staff members a clearer understanding of how the University operates and how their individual roles contribute to its strategic objectives.
As VUT continues its journey towards Strategy 2033+, the onboarding of new employees affirms that the University’s future will be shaped not only by its legacy, but also by the people who choose to build, support and advance it every day.