On 06 June 2024, the Vaal University of Technology (VUT) celebrated the installation of its new Chancellor, Mr. Vincent Zwelibanzi Mntambo, a renowned business leader. Graced by dignitaries from academia, business, and government, the event was celebrated in two parts; the official installation at the Desmond Tutu Great Hall on campus, followed by a luncheon at the Riverside Sun Hotel in Vanderbijlpark.

Mntambo, who will be the institution’s titular head for the next five years, was appointed by the University Council on 11 September 2023 after careful consideration and an extensive nationwide search for a suitable candidate fit for the role.

In addition to his extensive expertise and leadership within the business community, Mntambo also brings to his new role, a deep understanding of South Africa’s higher education landscape coupled with a profound commitment to academic excellence and a compassionate appreciation of the transformative power of education. These attributes combined, have been described by many across various levels of the university what is required to propel VUT into a promising era of growth and innovation, aligning with its mission of making knowledge accessible to all.

Having held academic positions early in his career, Mntambo’s influence extended through his roles at various institutions of higher learning, including the University of North West (UNW), the University of KwaZulu Natal (UKZN), and the University of South Africa (UNISA). He also played a pivotal role in the Independent Mediation Service of South Africa (IMSSA) and chaired the Commission for Conciliation, Mediation, and Arbitration (CCMA). Notably, his contributions as the first Director General of the Gauteng Provincial Government and founder and Director of Sediba Consulting and Eyesizwe Mining further highlight his extensive influence.

Speaker after speaker, Mntambo was described as a man of integrity with a deep sense of dedication to social development and an unwavering commitment to education.

Chairperson of the VUT Council, Professor Mandlakhe Radebe who presided over the installation, said Mntambo’s appointment comes at a critical time, pointing out that VUT and the sector at large had been in the limelight for not so good reasons in recent times. He also added that Mntambo’s distinguished background positions him as a dedicated ambassador for VUT, who would advocate for its interests and enhance its brand visibility on national and international fronts.

Expressing confidence in Mntambo’s leadership, Radebe said: “Your vision, Mr. Chancellor, aligns perfectly with our commitment to bridging the gap between academia and the broader society. Together, we will work towards creating an inclusive environment where every voice is heard, every talent is nurtured, and every dream is given the chance to flourish.”

In his inaugural speech as Chancellor, Mr. Mntambo stated that he was humbled to take on the mantle of Chancellor for VUT, which he said has for long been shaping young minds. “VUT is a place that has given birth to ideas, where the futures still are to be forged,” he said, adding that he embraces the university’s motto “INSPIRING THOUGHT. SHAPING TALENT”.

On his appointment, he said: “I accept the responsibilities of this investiture because of my deep belief in the transformative power of education. Today, as we look towards that horizon of endless possibilities, I invite us to free our minds and explore the liberation that knowledge, creativity, and boundless innovation can bring. Let’s pursue knowledge, creativity, and boundless innovation together,” he said, as he invited the wider university community to join in the noble pursuits of the university with free and open minds.

The keynote address was delivered by Chairperson of the Thabo Mbeki Board of Trustees, Ms Geraldine Joslyn Fraser-Moleketi, who was elected to SA’s first democratic parliament in April 1994 where she served in the Executive and Cabinet. Currently the Chancellor of Nelson Mandela University (NMU), Fraser-Moleketi started by welcoming Mntambo to “the club” saying that VUT is fortunate to have a man of his calibre as Chancellor. Reciting former President, Thabo Mbeki’s famous “I’m an African” speech, Dr Fraser-Moleketi said it actually reflects and captures Mntambo’s love of being an African.

Other speakers included Advocate Leah Qcabashe SC from the South African Judicial Services.

Taking to the podium to give acknowledgements, Prof Khehla Ndlovu, VUT Vice Chancellor and Principal, said eh day was of great significance to VUT, highlighting that the University had been without a Chancellor for a while. He also emphasised that as VUT embarks on this new chapter, it was important to spare a moment to appreciate the legacy of our past Chancellors: Mr Tokyo Sexwale, Advocate Pansy Hlakula and Dr Xolani Mkhwanazi, saying they laid the important building blocks for this thriving University of Technology. “Mr Mntambo, I have no doubt that these great giants have left a solid foundation during their respective tenures, on which you can stand firm as you take over the reins. Let us honor their contributions and pledge to build upon their legacy with renewed vigor.”

Ndlovu further said Mr Mntambo’s credentials speak for themselves, and he has no doubt that his Chancellorship will be nothing short of exponential growth for the institution. “Your forward-thinking vision for the country’s higher education aligns perfectly with the core values of our university and complements our dedication to making knowledge and learning accessible to all, as well as fostering young leaders who will advance societal interests through technological innovation, excellence, and inclusive growth. We look up to your elevation and consummation of your relationship with our institution with great expectations and optimism for the future,” he said.

To add grandeur to the event, attendees were treated to live performances from the VUT Choir, award-winning musician, Brian Temba as well as Musical Expressions Ensemble by Classics of Turf