The Vice-Chancellor and Principal of Mangosuthu University of Technology (MUT), Professor Nokuthula Sibiya, collaborated with the Ministry of Higher Education to host the 3rd G20 Education Working Group meeting from 2 to 3 July 2025, at The Capital, Zimbali. This significant event is part of South Africa’s G20 Presidency, which it assumed from Brazil on 1 December 2024.
Under the theme “Solidarity, Equality, and Sustainability,” South Africa’s G20 Presidency brings together the world’s largest economies, represented by 19 countries along with the European Union and the African Union. Participants included prominent nations such as the United States, China, India, Brazil, and Germany.
The Department of Higher Education, along with the Department of Basic Education, played a key role in organising the activities of the G20 Education Working Group, facilitating discussions that encompass vital issues in education. The meetings focused on two primary themes: “Building a Capable Professional Workforce” and “Models for Effective Professional Development and Lifelong Learning.”
“I ensured that our students get a sense of being in an international summit to show our commitment to our internationalisation agenda by actively participating. I led a team of five Student Liaison Officers: Mcebisi Nhlosenhle Nzuza, Nofezile Valentia Jali, Ayanda Nongcebo Khumalo, Ayanda Gule, and Mazwi Nhlakanipho Ndlazi. These students served as ushers, guiding international delegates and ensuring their needs were met, thereby gaining invaluable experience in the realm of multilateralism”, said Professor Sibiya.
For Professor Sibiya, “My involvement in the G20 Education Working Group is aligned with the University’s Strategic Goal 4, which emphasises targeted national engagement and internationalisation. This engagement further demonstrates our commitment to advancing the post-school education and training sector within the KZN Province, while also contributing to the objectives outlined in South Africa’s National Development Plan and the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals.”
Professor Sibiya also said, “As a follow-up to this summit, I will be encouraging our staff and postgraduate students from all faculties to submit opinion pieces on topics related to South Africa’s G20 Presidency. These pieces will be considered for publication by the Department of Higher Education, providing an important platform for sharing perspectives on this pivotal international leadership role.”
As South Africa continues to navigate its G20 Presidency, the collaborative efforts demonstrated at events such as the 3rd G20 Education Working Group Meeting reaffirm the nation’s commitment to fostering educational development and international co-operation.