The remarkable contribution of Dr Anette Mienie to the advancement of research at Mangosuthu University of Technology was celebrated during her farewell function on 24 June 2026, where former Deputy Vice-Chancellor: Academic, Professor Marcus Ramogale, paid an emotional tribute to the Institution’s founding Director of Research. Professor Ramogale is now DVC: Teaching and Learning.
As Professor Ramogale entered the venue, his arrival immediately reassured guests that the occasion was complete. Having joined MUT in 2009 as Deputy Vice-Chancellor: Academic, he remains one of the institution’s most respected academic leaders, admired for his wisdom, humility and enduring mentorship of staff and students.
Opening his address in his characteristic diplomatic style, Professor Ramogale remarked: “I don’t have a written speech, but I have a prepared speech,” signalling that his tribute came from memory and from the heart.
Reflecting on his arrival at MUT, Professor Ramogale recalled forging a close professional partnership with Dr Mienie almost immediately after joining the University. United by a shared vision to strengthen research at MUT, the two embarked on a journey that would transform the Institution’s research landscape. One of the earliest successes of their collaboration was securing a R3 million research grant, a milestone that significantly boosted research development at the University. Referring to the grant in her own farewell speech, Dr Mienie joked: “We were rich.”
Professor Ramogale emphasised the significance of the occasion, noting that despite facing personal challenges, he was determined to attend in honour of a colleague who had played such a pivotal role in MUT’s growth. “The first thing I noticed when I joined MUT was that the technikon culture was still very strong. But MUT had a new status; it was no longer a technikon, but a university of technology,” he said.
Professor Ramogale explained that this transition required a fundamental shift in institutional priorities, with research becoming a central focus. “There had to be changes. Research had to be addressed, and funding was needed. We increased research funding substantially. We looked at ways to encourage colleagues to conduct research. We decided to support them through research funding and by assisting them to obtain their PhDs.”
Professor Ramogale said the introduction of a promotion policy that placed greater emphasis on research marked another turning point for the University. “Things changed. Research evolved. We appointed research professors and research fellows. The National Research Foundation (NRF) took notice of developments at MUT and awarded us an acceleration award. This was a huge moment for MUT. Dr Mienie was central to this development,” he said.
Looking ahead, Professor Ramogale challenged the University’s current research leadership to preserve and build upon the strong foundation established by Dr Mienie. “The challenge is to have continuity. This is necessary for growth,” he said.
Addressing Deputy Vice-Chancellor: Research, Innovation and Engagement, Professor Mncedisi Maphalala, Professor Ramogale encouraged the Research Directorate to continue strengthening the systems and culture established under Dr Mienie’s leadership. “The research leadership should stand on the shoulders of a giant,” he said. “Don’t throw away what Dr Mienie has built. MUT will benefit far more by building on what already exists than by starting from scratch every time.”
Professor Ramogale also reflected on the personal qualities that defined Dr Mienie’s leadership. “We are going to remember Dr Mienie as a stickler for procedure. You couldn’t cut corners with Dr Mienie. She followed the procedure. We will also remember her as someone who is extremely humble.” Professor Ramogale praised the humility Dr Mienie displayed while serving as Acting Vice-Chancellor and Principal during 2025, noting that she consistently sought advice and consultation, demonstrating the importance she placed on continuity and collective leadership.
Concluding his heartfelt tribute, Professor Ramogale encouraged Dr Mienie to remain connected to the University community. “Keep in touch. Remain a friend of MUT. Enjoy your time as a senior citizen. Do some travelling, you deserve it. We wish you well. Go well. We will always pray for your good health.”
Professor Ramogale’s tribute served as a fitting recognition of Dr Mienie’s transformative leadership and enduring legacy, highlighting the significant role she played in positioning MUT as a growing research-intensive University. As Dr Mienie begins a new chapter, her contribution to building a culture of research excellence will continue to shape the Institution for years to come.