“The Vaal University of Technology (VUT) hosted its 2025 Short Learning Programme (SLP) Workshop, fostering collaboration, innovation, and strategic growth in higher education.”
28 October 2025 | Story: Sadiki Siphiwe Rulani | Photo: Peter Masela
2 minutes read time.
The Vaal University of Technology (VUT) hosted a successful two-day Short Learning Programme (SLP) Workshop from 24 to 25 October 2025 at the VUT Conference Centre, bringing together academics, researchers, and higher education leaders from across South Africa to reimagine the future of short learning in higher education.
In her opening address, Deputy Vice-Chancellor for Teaching, Learning, and Student Support, Dr Grace Kanakana-Katumba, urged participants to think boldly and act collaboratively. She emphasised that SLPs must reflect VUT’s institutional context and strategic direction, encouraging staff to listen with openness and align innovation with impact.
Facilitated by Dr Oliver Seale, the workshop featured sector leaders who shared practical insights on the evolving landscape of short learning. Ms Shirley Hyland (University of the Free State) reflected on governance and quality assurance in the SLP environment, while Dr Shalen Mohanlall (UKZN) discussed integrating university extended learning into institutional structures for better alignment and growth. Ms Natalie Zimmelman (Wits University) explored Wits Plus’s model for promoting lifelong learning, and Dr Seale himself presented on Sol Plaatje University’s Centre for Professional Development as a driver of business innovation.
Representing VUT, Ms Manini Kganaka unpacked the institution’s SLP framework, highlighting governance, policy alignment, and the need for partnerships with industry and government. She stressed that sustainable SLPs depend on regulatory compliance, academic excellence, and labour market responsiveness.
The second day focused on strategic reflection through a SWOT analysis, guiding participants to assess VUT’s strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats in SLP implementation.
Mr Life Rihlampfu, leading one of the discussion groups, called for stronger international collaborations to enhance global competitiveness and visibility. Professor Thomas Tengen highlighted the importance of bridging academia and industry to produce socially responsive graduates, while Professor Ramoshweu Lebelo cautioned against operational threats such as power disruptions, emphasising institutional resilience and contingency planning.
The concluding session centred on actionable steps to strengthen policy, infrastructure, and operational systems supporting SLP delivery. Participants raised crucial points around Standard Operating Procedures, policy coherence, and infrastructure readiness.
In her closing remarks, Dr Kanakana-Katumba commended the participants’ commitment, reiterating that “the culture of VUT is the culture of professionalism.” She urged staff to share lessons learned to ensure that the workshop’s outcomes translate into institutional change.
The VUT SLP Workshop reaffirmed the university’s dedication to academic excellence, innovation, and collaboration. By positioning SLPs as engines for capacity-building and lifelong learning, VUT continues to shape a responsive and future-focused higher education landscape.