The Seme Hall at Mangosuthu University of Technology (MUT) was transformed into a sea of academic regalia from 21 to 23 April 2026, as the Institution had its annual graduation season. In a stirring keynote address, MUT Council Chairperson, Dr Mosidi Makgae, lauded the resilience of the graduating class, and highlighted the University’s recent string of national and international accolades.
The ceremony was attended by high-profile dignitaries, including Chancellor Sandile Zungu, Interim Vice-Chancellor and Principal, Professor Rushiella Songca, and representatives from labour unions and student leadership.
Addressing the graduates directly, Dr Makgae emphasised that their journey from hopeful applicants to qualified professionals was paved with “discipline, sacrifice, and determination.” Dr Makgae reminded the Class of 2026 that while the transition to the workforce presents new challenges, the University had equipped them with more than just technical expertise. “South Africa and the global community need graduates who are innovative, ethical, compassionate, and committed to solving the challenges of our time,” Dr Makgae stated. “Carry forward the spirit of excellence that MUT has instilled in you.”
The Chairperson also took a moment to express profound gratitude to the parents and guardians, offering a heartfelt “Siyabonga kakhulu” for their unwavering support of the graduates.
Dr Makgae used the platform to showcase MUT’s growing reputation as a hub for research and skill development. She noted that the University’s commitment to excellence was recently validated on the national stage. On 13 April 2026, MUT was honoured with the Skill Development Leadership Award at the South Africa Leadership Awards 2026 in Sandton. This prestigious recognition affirms the University’s outstanding contribution to developing student skills and preparing graduates who are ready to lead, innovate, and shape the future.
The address highlighted several individual and departmental achievements that underscore MUT’s “Ignite 2030” strategic vision. Dr Makgae said that Professor Xolile Mkhize was nominated for the 2025 Best Mentor Award, while Nokukhanya Thembane was named the 2025 Health Researcher of the Year. Also, said Dr Makgae, the Electrical Engineering department celebrated the publication of a book on Artificial Intelligence and Smart Systems with Springer. On the sporting front, MUT Bodybuilders Nduduzo Ndebele and Maxwell Nxumalo represented South Africa in Spain and Saudi Arabia, respectively. Meanwhile, three staff members – Dr Melvin Mothoa, Sthembile Maphumulo-Ndlovu and Ayanda Bulose, were selected for the prestigious DAAD Internationalisation Fellowship.
The Chairperson also acknowledged the vital role of industry partners in enhancing the student experience. She thanked FASSETA for their donation of high-end laptops to Accounting and Management students, and Cataler South Africa for providing state-of-the-art microscopy equipment to bolster the university’s research capabilities.
As the ceremony concluded, Dr Makgae reminded the new alumni of their role as ambassadors. “Wherever your journey takes you, carry the name of this University with pride, dignity, and integrity,” she urged.