“ VUT received official accreditation from SABPP on 17 November 2025 during a ceremony held in the IT Boardroom, marking a significant achievement that strengthens the university’s academic quality, industry relevance and commitment to uplifting the Vanderbijlpark community.”
25 November 2025 | Story by: Sadiki Siphiwe Rulani | Picture by: Peter Masela
9 minutes read time.
On 17 November 2025, the Vaal University of Technology (VUT) marked a defining moment in its academic journey when it officially received accreditation from the South African Board for People Practices (SABPP). The ceremony, held at the university’s main campus in Vanderbijlpark, was both a recognition of academic excellence and a powerful affirmation of VUT’s expanding role in industry, the student community and the wider region.
The session was chaired by Dr Josiah Masoka, Head of the Department of Human Resources, whose opening remarks set a reflective and celebratory tone. He then invited Professor Chengedzai Mafini, Executive Dean of Management Sciences, to welcome staff members and SABPP leadership, including CEO Mr Xolani Mawande, Head of Research and Assurance Prof Ajay Jivan, and Ms Lindiwe Nombaca, Governance Lead at SABPP.
In his address, Prof Mafini described the SABPP delegation as long-standing members of the “maVUTi family” and acknowledged the foundational work of former Heads of Department who strengthened the partnership over the years. He encouraged the current team to continue building on this legacy, noting that VUT’s strong industry linkages are rooted in its enduring relationship with SABPP.
Prof Jivan then introduced the keynote speaker, Mr Mawande, whose message became a defining moment of the event. Mr Mawande began by thanking attendees for their time, particularly given the short notice. He paid tribute to Prof Jivan as a “hero of research” and a custodian of national accreditation standards. He confirmed that VUT’s accreditation will be valid until 2030, after which a full re-evaluation will take place, and reminded the audience that accreditation is a continuous commitment to excellence. “Learning is a continuous process,” he said, challenging VUT to use this achievement as a springboard for greater impact.
Drawing on SABPP’s work with 13 universities across South Africa, Mr Mawande highlighted the transformative example of Stellenbosch University, which has energised the economic and social life of its surrounding town. He urged VUT to embrace a similar mandate of local renewal by leveraging its accreditation to uplift Vanderbijlpark, support business growth and build a legacy of positive change.
Returning to the podium, Prof Mafini expressed gratitude for the CEO’s encouragement and confirmed that the accreditation serves as an important milestone in the faculty’s pursuit of excellence. He reminded staff of the upcoming Faculty Team Building on 4 December 2025, positioning it as a moment to reinforce unity and collaboration. Reflecting on the Research Retreat of 1 July 2025, he noted that the faculty’s collective
effort to align its strategic goals played a major role in securing this accreditation. He committed the university to continuing its mission to “leave a mark” on society and to help position Vanderbijlpark as a hub of economic opportunity.
As the ceremony drew to a close, Dr Masoka thanked the faculty for their dedication, describing the accreditation as both a symbol of collective achievement and a validation of VUT’s role in shaping future professionals. He urged staff to continue applying themselves fully, emphasising that the recognition extends beyond compliance; it reflects the university’s growing societal impact.
In her vote of thanks, Ms T. Naidoo commended SABPP for its commitment to youth development and professional excellence. She affirmed that the accreditation is a milestone the faculty deeply treasures and a renewed call to elevate the standard of education and community upliftment.
The SABPP accreditation represents more than institutional compliance. It signifies trust, credibility and a renewed sense of purpose. With this achievement, VUT is poised to strengthen its academic offerings, deepen industry relevance and expand its impact on the Vanderbijlpark community.