06 June 2025 | Story: By: Staff Reporter | Photo: Naledi Nkosi
1 minute read time.
Following the announcement last week outlining plans to improve water self-sustainability, the Vaal University of Technology (VUT) has commenced the installation of boreholes across its campuses. This strategic intervention is aimed at ensuring uninterrupted operations and reducing the university’s dependence on municipal water supply.
The first phase of the project is actively underway at the main Vanderbijlpark campus, targeting high-demand zones including student residences, administrative blocks and research facilities. Simultaneously, borehole drilling has begun at VUT’s Sebokeng sites, with provisions in place for residences and satellite branches.
Mr Scelo Mahlalela, Vice Chancellor for Operations at VUT, said: “This is not just a response to current water challenges, it is a strategic investment in the sustainability and independence of our institution. By installing boreholes, we are not only safeguarding academic continuity but also showing leadership in resource management within the higher education sector.”
This initiative forms part of a long-term resilience plan that includes future integration with smart water monitoring technologies, water quality systems and possible purification solutions for expanded reuse.
With this project, VUT joins a growing cohort of South African universities implementing sustainable infrastructure solutions amid ongoing water and service delivery challenges. The institution continues to position itself at the forefront of innovation, sustainability and operational excellence.
Further updates will be communicated as the programme expands across the institution’s facilities.