VUT, part of student affairs top body members meeting

The Vaal University of Technology (VUT) took part at the South African Association of Senior Student Affairs Professionals (SAASSAP) Members Meeting held at the University of KwaZulu-Natal (UKZN)’s Howard College campus in Durban on 01 -02 August 2024.

Representing VUT at this significant gathering were Mr. Musa Mpanza, the Acting Executive Director: Student Support Services and Ms Faith Tebogo Mocoancoeng, Acting Director:  Student Accommodation and Catering.

The meeting was inter alia used to engage with key stakeholders in the higher education sector, including the Department of Higher Education and Training (DHET), Higher Health, and the National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS).

SAASSAP brings together senior Student Affairs professionals of all affiliated universities in South Africa, including VUT. One of its major goals is to provide strategic leadership, build capacity and share knowledge amongst student affairs for the benefit of students in accordance with national imperatives and global trends.

Overall, the meeting provided a platform for discussion on crucial matters affecting the higher education sector. DHET represented by Ms Fundiswa Sotenjwa highlighted that several policies are under review, reflecting the department’s commitment to continuous improvement. Meanwhile, in their presentation, Higher Health addressed the critical issue of Gender-Based Violence (GBV), emphasising the need for comprehensive strategies to combat this pervasive issue on campuses. Their presentation also shared the Protocol on Safety in Private Accommodation, emphasizing the importance of ensuring safe living environments for students. NSFAS Administrator, Mr Sithembiso Freeman Nomvalo presented updates on various issues and underscored the significance of the upcoming Scheme’s Roadshows scheduled for the month of August. Additionally, all universities affiliated to SAASSAP were afforded an opportunity to present on both successes and challenges of this year’s first semester.

Mr Mpanza said VUT’s presentation highlighted notable achievements and initiatives from the first semester. These included amongst others securing the New Vaal Motors sponsorship for the VUT Rugby Team; introduction of new training programs for student leaders aimed at enhancing their leadership skills and promoting effective governance within the student community. VUT also shared that in its concerted efforts to combat GBV, the university recently co-hosted the 5th Bi-Annual National Conference on Gender-Based Violence (GBV), Diversity, and Inclusivity. Notably, has officially launched the Economic Activation Office (EAO) which signifies VUT’s commitment to promoting economic development and providing students with opportunities to engage in entrepreneurial activities.

According to Mpanza the meeting also featured the presentation of the final draft of the National Student Governance Framework. “This comprehensive policy covers various aspects of student governance, including Class Representatives, Faculty Councils, and their electoral processes, as well as Students’ Representative Councils (SRCs),” Mpanza said. He further explained that the framework aims to standardize practices and electoral processes across the higher education sector.

On SAASSAP calendar, there is an upcoming elective conference scheduled for 26-28 September 2024 at the University of Fort Hare’s East London campus.

For more information on SAASSAP and the National Executive Committee, please visit SAASSAP NEC on : https://saassap.com/national-executive-committee/