Professor Lourens Van Staden, MUT’s Administrator is not only well known for his leadership as a seasoned academic, Vice-Chancellor, administrator, chair of boards, researcher, turn-around strategist; he is also well known for setting high standards wherever he gets stationed to bring order. For this, he has gained respect everywhere and is well known as a perfectionist. On 24 August 2023, at the gala dinner hosted by the Focus Conference organisers, he paid tribute to the Acting Vice-Chancellor and Principal, Professor Marcus Ramogale, for his leadership and maintaining stability at MUT. “I have witnessed great work coming out of MUT and tonight. I stand tall as the administrator to commend the VC for the achievements we are witnessing tonight. This is an indication of his true leadership.”
Professor van Staden also commended Dr Manyane Makua and his team in conceptualising a conference like this which “gives others an opportunity to articulate their work and receive feedback”. Prof Van Staden also reminded MUT staff that whatever “you are doing is for the community of Umlazi, South Africa, and the children”. This is not the first time the Administrator has articulated this statement. It is now a call to action for all staff, students, and stakeholders to deepen its understanding on this call to action.