On Wednesday, 17 September, the Council on Higher Education (CHE), through its Chief Executive Officer, Dr Whitfield Green, expressed appreciation in a formal letter addressed to the Vice-Chancellor of Mangosuthu University of Technology (MUT) for the University’s comprehensive response to the recommendations highlighted during the institutional audit.
Entitled “Higher Education Quality Committee Response to the Mangosuthu University of Technology Improvement Plan,” the correspondence affirmed MUT’s newly revised Improvement Plan (IP), recognising its careful alignment with quality assurance expectations, institutional strategic goals, and national educational priorities. “The Committee commends the institution for its structured approach, alignment with strategic priorities, and evident commitment to quality enhancement,” the letter stated.
Professor Marcus Ramogale, who was at the helm of the Improvement Plan project, excitedly shared the letter with his lead team from the Quality Management Department (QMD), saying, “Let me take this opportunity to thank you, the QMD staff and the Task Team for this important milestone. More power to your elbow!”
The Higher Education Quality Committee (HEQC), which is entrusted with overseeing institutional audits and ensuring quality assurance, noted that MUT’s submission demonstrated a profound contextual understanding and effectively utilised CHE support mechanisms, workshops, and consultation tools. The HEQC indicated that this thoughtful approach “contributed positively to the overall quality of the submission.”
MUT senior and executive management, familiar with the process, will all attest that the Improvement Plan was the result of extensive internal collaboration, engaging academic leadership, support staff, and strategic planning units. Professor Ramogale believes the plan aims not only to address the gaps identified during the audit but also to foster a culture of continuous quality enhancement.
As higher education institutions throughout South Africa navigate scrutiny and evolving expectations surrounding quality assurance, MUT’s methodology may serve as a valuable case study for others experiencing similar challenges. With the CHE emphasising the importance of evidence-based planning, accountability, and outcome-focused performance, MUT’s transparent and collaborative approach will in the long run be an exemplary model.
The university is anticipated to submit its initial progress report on the implementation of its Improvement Plan in the coming months.