Twenty-six years ago, when MUT was still a Technikon or ManTech, as it was fondly called, a remarkable journey began that would transform not only the university but also the lives of countless individuals. Dr Anette Mienie, a resident of Ballito, and still is, embarked on her mission to establish the Research Office at Mangosuthu University of Technology. With a heart full of ambition and a vision for impact-driven research, she embarked on a path that would transform the landscape of innovation and excellence.
The early days were filled with challenges, but Dr Mienie’s unwavering determination propelled her forward. She assembled a team of passionate academics and staff, each dedicated to the idea that research could serve as a catalyst for change. Together, they forged ahead, not only building an office but nurturing an environment where creativity flourished and groundbreaking ideas were born. “That time, it was myself as the research director, the Vice-Chancellor, Professor Aaron Ndlovu, and the Deputy Vice-Chancellor, Professor Edmund Zingu, who was the deputy vice-chancellor, academic, who possessed the terminal qualification. But through hard work, determination and ambition, staff soon attained Master’s qualifications and PhDs. The rest as they say, is history”, said Dr Mienie.
“Our Research Office became a beacon of hope and possibility. It was not just an administrative hub; it evolved into a space where dreams took flight and societal challenges were tackled head-on. Staff began visiting my office and ideas emerged. Now, as we celebrate our silver jubilee, we reflect on the incredible legacy we have established. It is a legacy filled with stories of resilience, innovation, and empowerment”, said Dr Mienie, and many will attest to that. Dr Mienie’s foresight and the dedication of her team have laid a foundation that will support future generations of scholars and innovators.
Today, the university stands proud, enriched by a quarter of a century of achievements that can be traced back to that initial spark of inspiration. Dr Mienie leaves an office she built from the ground up, nurtured with love, and watched it flourish like flowers and plants in her house.
As we raise our glasses to the accomplishments of the past, we also look forward with excitement. Together, we honour the visionary leadership of Dr Anette Mienie, the relentless spirit of the research staff, and the trailblazing researchers who have made this journey possible.
Here is to 26 years of sustainability, alignment, continuity, excellence, and mastery:
- Founding of the Research Office (2000)
Established by Dr Anette Mienie to lay the foundation for MUT’s research excellence. - Research policies and strategies to anchor the research agenda
- Research Centres Established
Creation of multidisciplinary research centres fostering collaborative innovation. - Research Excellence Awards
Recognising and rewarding high-impact researchers and innovative projects. - NRF Excelleration Award 2020/2021.
This award for South African Research Institutions is derived from the words “excellence” and “acceleration”.
- Hosting of Postdoctoral Research Fellows
Advancing knowledge creation through postdoctoral mentorship and scholarship.
- Retired Professors Programme
Tapping into seasoned expertise for mentorship and legacy-building.
- Seed Fund Programme
Facilitating innovative research through early-stage funding opportunities. - Research Capacity Development Grant
Supporting the professional growth of emerging researchers through submitting grants proposals.
- Global Research Partnerships
Strategic collaborations with international institutions for global impact. - Significant Growth in Research Income
Sustained increase in research funding from diverse sources. - Establishment of the Higher Degrees Office
Supporting postgraduate research excellence and scholarly achievement. - Inaugurating First Women Researchers in 2025
A historic milestone for gender equity in academia. - Women in Research Programmes
Empowering and advancing women scholars across disciplines. - Growth in Number of Rated Researchers
Increasing recognition by the National Research Foundation. - Research Recognition and Awards
Local and international accolades celebrating excellence. - Annual Research and Innovation Week
A flagship event showcasing research outputs and collaborations. - Ethics and Integrity Framework
Establishment of a robust ethical governance system in research. - Innovation and Commercialisation Unit
Supporting technology transfer and intellectual property management. - Community-Engaged Research Initiatives
Research that addresses societal challenges and uplifts communities. - Digital Research Repository
Launch of an open-access institutional repository for global visibility. - Writing Workshops and Retreats
Building capacity in translating research for public and policy impact. - Outstanding Staff Retention
A dedicated, long-serving team that continuously provides excellent research support services. - Establishment of the Postgraduate Degrees Office within research.
- One year:
- Two executive positions: Acting Deputy Vice-Chancellor: Research, Innovation, and Engagements
- Acting Vice-Chancellor & Principal: MUT
- Last but not least: Visionary leadership by the Director
A scientist at heart, Dr Mienie went the extra mile by attaining a Law Degree with specialisation in Intellectual Property, aligning legal insight with research innovation.
Final tribute by Dr Mienie: