Mangosuthu University of Technology’s Executive Management has reaffirmed its commitment to supporting Interim Vice-Chancellor and Principal Professor Rushiella Songca’s vision for institutional transformation, with a particular focus on delivering future-fit learning and teaching as outlined in the university’s IGNITE 2030 Strategy.
Addressing stakeholders during the Vice-Chancellor’s 100 Days in Office celebration, Deputy Vice-Chancellor: Teaching and Learning, Professor Marcus Ramogale, delivered a thought-provoking reflection on the role of higher education in preparing graduates for a rapidly changing world.
Drawing inspiration from China’s remarkable economic rise over the past few decades, Professor Ramogale highlighted how nations that invest strategically in education, innovation, skills development and long-term planning position themselves for sustainable growth and global competitiveness.
He noted that the strategic goal of Future-Fit Learning and Teaching is not merely a slogan within IGNITE 2030, but a call to action for every member of the university community.
“Future-Fit Learning and Teaching challenges us to ask whether we are adequately preparing our students for the world they will inherit and help shape,” he said.
Professor Ramogale urged the university community to reflect deeply on MUT’s Graduate Attributes, which seek to produce graduates who are:
- Professionally competent and work ready.
- Critical and innovative thinkers.
- Ethical and socially responsible citizens.
- Effective communicators.
- Entrepreneurial and adaptable problem-solvers.
- Digitally capable and responsive to technological change; and
- Lifelong learners committed to continuous growth.
However, he emphasised that achieving these attributes requires a collective institutional effort.
“For us to mention these attributes, we need to acknowledge that it takes a village to raise a child,” said Professor Ramogale. “Every member of the university community has a role to play. Whether you are an academic, administrator, support staff member, researcher, manager or leader, you are contributing to the development of a graduate who is fit for the future.”
He reminded colleagues that student success is not the responsibility of a single division, but a shared institutional mandate requiring collaboration across all levels of the university.
In closing, Professor Ramogale left the audience with a powerful message from basketball legend Michael Jordan:
“Talent wins games, but teamwork and intelligence win championships.”
The quote resonated strongly with the audience, reminding them that institutional success depends on collective effort rather than individual achievement.
“As we IGNITE 2030, our intent is to improve student success and graduation rates. Let us help the Vice-Chancellor deliver on the mandate entrusted to her. Together, we can build a stronger institution that produces graduates who are not only qualified but are prepared to lead, innovate and make meaningful contributions to society,” he concluded.
Professor Ramogale’s remarks echoed the broader sentiment expressed throughout the 100 Days celebration: that the successful implementation of IGNITE 2030 will require a united university community working together to transform vision into delivery and aspiration into measurable impact.