“VUT and Standard Bank launched the Green Hydro Centre at Sebokeng to drive hydrogen innovation, clean energy, skills growth and economic development.”
09 September 2025 | Story By: Vince Twala | Picture: Peter Masela
2 minutes read time.
On 4 September, the Vaal University of Technology (VUT), in partnership with Standard Bank, launched the Green Hydrogen Centre of Excellence at the Southern Gauteng Science and Technology Park in Sebokeng. The launch marks a bold step towards advancing sustainable energy solutions, fostering innovation, and strengthening industry–academic collaboration.
Professor Khehla Ndlovu, Vice-Chancellor and Principal of VUT, described the centre as a beacon for South Africa’s future. “Clean energy is no longer optional but urgent, with hydrogen positioned as a cornerstone of our just energy transition. This centre will not only drive research and skills development but also create jobs, empower communities, and nurture entrepreneurs. With Standard Bank’s support, VUT is ready to lead South Africa’s hydrogen revolution.”
Dr Nelana, Deputy Vice-Chancellor for Research, Innovation, Commercialisation, and Internationalisation, stressed that the centre is more than a research facility. “It is a hub of innovation, where scientists, engineers, entrepreneurs, and policymakers will collaborate to create real-world solutions. Our goal is to translate research into commercial opportunities, positioning VUT and Sebokeng Science Park at the forefront of global hydrogen innovation.”
He thanked Standard Bank, led by Ms Simone Cooper, for its visionary investment. Cooper, Head of Business and Commercial Banking South Africa at Standard Bank, reaffirmed the bank’s commitment to supporting South Africa’s green economy transition. She praised VUT’s multidisciplinary approach, which integrates engineering, chemistry, business, and logistics to prepare students for leadership in the energy sector.
“The Centre of Excellence positions the university as a leader in hydrogen research and technology development,” she said. “It aligns with the Hydrogen Society Roadmap and the Just Energy Transition Plan, supporting the decarbonisation of sectors such as transport, steel, and power generation, while creating new economic opportunities.”
Notably, the launch featured an international contribution: Dr Lord Ugwu, an academic from Saskatchewan Polytechnic in Canada, who delivered insightful remarks at the event. His participation underlined the global resonance of hydrogen innovation, anchoring VUT’s local efforts in the broader tapestry of international clean-energy scholarship.
Prof Chengendzai Mafini, Executive Dean of the Faculty of Management Sciences, delivered the vote of thanks, recognising the strong support from VUT leadership, staff, and external partners. He commended the collaboration across faculties and the presence of key stakeholders, including municipal representatives and Eskom officials.
The event closed with a clear message: the Green Hydrogen Centre is not just a project but a long-term commitment to sustainability, progress, and partnership.