Professor Rushiella Songca, the interim Vice-Chancellor and Principal of Mangosuthu University of Technology (MUT), kicked off a transformative three-day lekgotla with an ambitious vision for the Institution’s future. During her opening address, she encouraged attendees to reflect on their progress and explore ways to contribute to the University’s ambitious IGNITE 2030 initiative. “We would like to pay particular attention to ensuring the 2027 APP is realistic, measurable, and responsive to the University’s operating environment, while remaining firmly aligned with the ambitions of IGNITE 2030”
In a call for collaboration and teamwork, Professor Songca’s remarks resonated deeply with the participants, setting a constructive tone for the discussions to follow. “This lekgotla provides an opportunity for everyone to reflect on progress made and to rethink how each and every one could add value to IGNITE 2030,” she stated, underscoring the importance of collective effort in achieving the university’s goals.
Professor Songca’s solutions-driven approach shone through in many notable moments during the planning discussions. Dr Liile Lekena-Bayaga, Director of Strategic Planning in the Directorate of Institutional Planning and Research (DIPR), remarked on the level of engagement from the interim Vice-Chancellor and Principal, stating, “I was particularly impressed by her attentiveness throughout the discussions; her willingness to listen carefully to different perspectives, and, importantly, her ability to provide clear direction when it was needed. It gave the planning process both focus and purpose.”
This sentiment was echoed by many participants, who felt the lekgotla was an eye-opener in shaping their approach to the IGNITE2030 vision. The collaborative environment Professor Songca fostered is expected to strengthen teamwork and effectiveness in the initiative’s ongoing implementation. The discussions were collegial and fostered camaraderie among attendees who rarely meet face-to-face in the digital age.