{"id":37573,"date":"2026-06-02T13:03:20","date_gmt":"2026-06-02T13:03:20","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/vut.ac.za\/?p=37573"},"modified":"2026-06-02T13:05:29","modified_gmt":"2026-06-02T13:05:29","slug":"vut-prepares-222-class-representatives-to-champion-student-success-in-2026","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/vut.ac.za\/st\/vut-prepares-222-class-representatives-to-champion-student-success-in-2026\/","title":{"rendered":"VUT prepares 222 Class Representatives to champion student success in 2026"},"content":{"rendered":"

“VUT trained 222 Class Representatives for 2026, equipping student leaders with communication, leadership, accountability, and governance skills to enhance the student experience.”<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

02 June 2026 | Story by: Staff Reporter | Picture: Supplied<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

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

\"VUT<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

The Student Life Governance Unit (SLG), within Student Support Services (SSS) at the Vaal University of Technology (VUT), recently hosted a comprehensive training programme for 222 elected Class Representatives who will serve during the 2026 academic year. The training took place at the VUT Conference Centre.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Bringing together representatives from the Faculties of Management Sciences, Human Sciences, Engineering and Technology, and Applied and Computer Sciences, the programme aimed to strengthen the role of Class Representatives as vital links between students and the University.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Class Representatives play an important role in ensuring effective communication between students, lecturers and the institution. The training focused on their key responsibilities, including communicating important information, gathering student feedback, raising academic concerns and serving as trusted points of contact within their respective classes.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The programme also emphasised the importance of leadership, accountability and professionalism. Participants were encouraged to lead by example, demonstrate integrity in their engagements and act in the best interests of the students they represent. Discussions further highlighted the importance of punctuality, classroom readiness and a commitment to continuous personal and academic development.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Facilitators from the Tshwane University of Technology (TUT), Mr Tshepang Manyesa and Mr Thato Mokhele, led the training and shared valuable insights on effective representation and student leadership. Their presentations encouraged participants to critically reflect on their teaching and learning experiences while promoting constructive engagement between students and lecturers.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Mr Mokhele challenged attendees to consider how teaching is delivered and how meaningful interactions between lecturers and students can contribute to a positive and supportive learning environment. These discussions encouraged Class Representatives to become active contributors to enhancing the overall student experience.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Reflecting on the training, Mr Lwazi Tshabalala expressed appreciation for the initiative.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

“The Class Representative Workshop was truly insightful and exceeded my expectations. I had previously underestimated the significance of the role, but the programme provided valuable guidance on the qualities and responsibilities required of an effective Class Representative. It also demonstrated the commitment of the Student Life Governance Unit to student leadership development. For the first time, we felt recognised, valued and actively involved. I believe this will lead to stronger coordination and more meaningful engagement across the student community,” said Tshabalala.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The programme concluded with interactive cross faculty discussions involving Academic Advisors and Class Representatives. These sessions provided an opportunity for participants to share experiences, discuss challenges related to teaching and learning, and propose practical solutions to improve the academic environment.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

By creating opportunities for dialogue, collaboration and shared problem solving, the training reinforced the important role that Class Representatives play in promoting student success and fostering a culture of accountability, communication and partnership across the University.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

As they prepare to assume their responsibilities in 2026, the newly trained Class Representatives leave equipped with the knowledge, skills and confidence required to serve their fellow students with professionalism, integrity and dedication.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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