MUT’s research story just got a new voice. On Thursday, 23 July 2026, Interim Vice-Chancellor and Principal, Professor Rushiella Songca, officially launched the VC Research Vlog Series, a bold new platform celebrating the university’s academic talent and research output. Addressing members of the media, university staff, and researchers, Professor Songca outlined an ambitious strategic vision focused on building an institutional culture that prioritises research excellence, retains doctoral talent, and improves overall working conditions across the campus.
Reflecting on two weeks of direct sit-down conversations with MUT researchers, Professor Songca shared that her initial optimism about the University’s academic potential was strongly reinforced by what she discovered. “I was immensely proud of the MUT research,” Professor Songca said during the launch. “We are sitting on a mine that is not explored. There is talent at MUT that needs to be elevated. Even before I joined MUT, I kept an eye on MUT research. Now, as Vice-Chancellor and Principal, I have a chance to do just that.”
Professor Songca stressed that MUT must distinguish itself in the higher education landscape by implementing policies that directly support scholarly productivity. Central to this goal is urging academic staff to attain Master’s and PhD degrees, a step she identified as essential to scaling up overall research output.
Addressing the Institution’s historical challenge of losing qualified PhD personnel, Professor Songca made a passionate appeal for researchers to stay and build their careers at MUT. “You must stay at MUT. In two years, people will be telling a different story about MUT,” she assured staff. “We are going to work with you. There are opportunities at MUT.”
To back up these promises, management is taking concrete steps to support staff advancement. There are research grants and funding. The university has actively requested research grants to ensure both academic and research programs thrive. Management committed to providing lecturer replacements while staff members are on sabbatical leave so research can proceed uninterrupted. MUT is currently reviewing its promotion policy to identify and elevate deserving academics. And lastly, following the recent appointment of a Senior Director of Operations, management is prioritising upgrade of research infrastructure.
Underlining her collaborative leadership style, Professor Songca urged researchers seeking support to reach out to university leadership. “Raise your hand,” she challenged staff, reiterating that management is committed to walking alongside them every step of the way. “This is a journey. We will support you in every way possible.”
NB/ Please find below links to the MUT VC Research Vlog Series for your convenient access. The videos are available on the MUT website and YouTube channel.
Links:
MUT Website: https://www.mut.ac.za/vc-research-vlog-series
YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLVTQQk5FLcPk