The deep love for the University led its Chair of Council, Dr Mosidi Makgae, to approach Thembinkosi Madikane, the President of the Engineering Council of South Africa (ECSA), to contribute to the Institution’s crucial infrastructure and teaching and learning needs. During a meeting off campus, a few months ago, Dr Makgae came to know Thembinkosi Madikane, President of ECSA. Recognising the value of investing in strong relationships, Dr Makgae invited Madikane to MUT. On 30 January 2026, Dr Makgae and her Council team welcomed Madikane to MUT.
During the visit, Madikane met with the Acting Vice-Chancellor and Principal, Dr Anette Mienie, and the Chairperson of Council, Dr Mosidi Makgae, and other external and internal Council members to explore ways of strengthening the University’s Engineering faculty through a strategic partnership with ECSA. Dr Makgae said the discussions focused on positioning ECSA as a key strategic partner in advancing MUT’s growth and development. Madikane, an alumnus of the University and a member of its second graduating cohort, shared his long-standing connection with MUT and reaffirmed his commitment to supporting its academic and infrastructural development.
Madikane currently serves alongside the Chairperson of the MUT Council at ECSA.
Following the meeting, MUT plans to host a seminar to deepen collaboration with ECSA. Dr Makgae said that the key areas to be discussed include the role of ECSA as technical advisors on infrastructure development; the strengthening of advisory committees; the placement of Work Integrated Learning (WIL) students; the honorary appointments of lecturers to support teaching and research; and opportunities for research collaboration in the Engineering sector.
The initiative marks an important step toward enhancing MUT’s Engineering capacity and fostering partnerships that drive academic excellence and innovation.