Senior leadership at Mangosuthu University of Technology (MUT) concluded a three-day off-campus Annual Vice-Chancellor’s Planning Lekgotla on 10 September 2026, with an intensive masterclass on media engagement, strategic communication, and institutional reputation management.
On the event’s final day was a presentation by veteran media executive Katy Katopodis, a respected editor, news production manager, and executive with extensive experience across radio and television.
Katopodis provided an insightful look into the inner workings of modern newsrooms, shedding light on the role higher education leaders play when engaging with the media. Katopodis highlighted critical areas management must navigate during media encounters to ensure that interviews convey the intended message without compromising the University’s public image.
A core focus of her session was the concept of the “gorilla question”, unexpected, high-stakes, or aggressive queries that catch interviewees off guard. Katopodis demonstrated the potential risks these questions pose to institutional standing and provided practical techniques for handling them effectively under pressure.
The session resonated strongly with MUT’s senior leadership team. Attendees backed a request from Interim Vice-Chancellor and Principal, Professor Rushiella Songca, to extend the media training into a full follow-up session soon.
The University management plans to schedule an expanded follow-up session with Katapodis as part of its ongoing leadership development and strategic implementation initiatives.