VUT and local partners restore hope and home for local resident after tragic fire
25 October 2024 | STORY . Qhawekazi Memani. PHOTO Naledi Nkosi.
In a remarkable act of community support and solidarity, the Vaal University of Technology (VUT), through its Department of Community Engagement has made a lasting difference in the life of a local resident, Mr Letama Johannes Mphene. Mr Mpheme a long-time resident of Boipatong in Sharpeville, found himself homeless after his house was ravaged by uncontained fire earlier this month. In his time of need, VUT and various local partners stepped in to restore both his home and his hope.
The journey began when Mr. Mphene reached out to Mr. Joseph Radebe, the Acting Director for Community Engagement at VUT, for assistance. Recognizing the importance of supporting the community in line with VUT’s equal commitment to community engagement, alongside its teaching, learning, and research pillars, Mr. Radebe and his team responded immediately. With support from VUT’s Student Support Services (SSS) and VUT QUEST Conference Centre, they mobilized resources and partners to bring this renovation to life.
Critical support also came from Mr. Baloyi, the primary contractor, as well as local companies and organizations, including Monate Nate under Ace Mantoa Water Resources and Ward 3 Councillor Mr. Billy Mogoro. Their contributions ensured the restoration was thorough, creating a safe and welcoming space for Mr. Mphene once again.
On 18 October 2024, in a heartwarming ceremony, the newly renovated house was officially handed over to Mr. Mphene. Beaming with gratitude, Mr. Mphene expressed his disbelief and joy at the transformation of his home. “Kea Leboha haholo,” he said—a Sesotho phrase meaning “Thank you very much.” His words were filled with heartfelt appreciation for Mr. Radebe, VUT, and the entire team for their kindness and support.
Reflecting on the event, Mr. Radebe expressed his appreciation for the support of the Boipatong community and encouraged them to continue being “Ambassadors of Change and Beacons of Hope” by taking an active role in their surroundings. “We call upon all VUT employees and students to do their best to assist the institution in its quest to uplift communities in the Vaal,” said Mr. Radebe, who is passionately invested in the development of the Sedibeng District.
The project exemplifies VUT’s dedication to community upliftment, fulfilling its mandate to make a positive impact beyond the university’s walls. “It is not only about academic excellence but also about building stronger communities and creating real-life change,” Mr. Radebe remarked. He emphasized that initiatives like these are vital to fostering a culture of care and service, reminding us all of the powerful impact of community-centered education.
This homecoming marks more than just the return of a house; it signifies hope, resilience, and the power of a united community. Through this and many similar initiatives, VUT and its partners continue to demonstrate their commitment to community engagement, touching lives and strengthening bonds with surrounding communities.
This comes hot on the heels of a similar gesture where VUT was involved. In July this year, as part of Mandela Month, VUT and Emfuleni Local Municipality (ELM) joined hands to restore the hopes of Ditshepe Tsa Ngwao Ya Setswana, a cultural group based in Sebokeng Zone 11, The collaboration saw the rebuilding of the group’s club house which was destroyed by fire, leaving the group’s cultural dance apparel, two single beds with blankets, and other belongs, burnt to ashes.