The Mangosuthu University of Technology (MUT) reaffirmed its commitment to its stakeholder relations agenda when it was formally recognised at the Solwazi Foundation’s 10th awards ceremony in honour of Menzi High School’s excellent performance in matric. The Solwazi Foundation’s awards ceremony, held at the Inkosi Albert Luthuli International Convention Centre (ICC) on 23 January 2025, also acknowledged strategic partners who have contributed to sustained learner success in Umlazi Township. Throughout the Solwazi Foundation’s years of association, Menzi High School has achieved 100% pass rates, including during the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020.
The day-long programme brought together more than 1 000 attendees, including Prince Qedi Zulu, founder of Solwazi Foundation, Princess Lungi (MaMkhwanazi) Zulu, members of the Zulu Royal Family, KwaZulu-Natal Premier, Hon Thami Ntuli, Menzi High School alumni, the Class of 2025, parents, Department of Basic Education officials from the Umlazi District and the province, and faith leaders from the Anglican Church, and regional bishops as well as clergy from other churches. The ceremony was deeply spiritually rooted, reflecting the values that underpin Menzi High School’s culture of discipline and excellence, as well as the values held by Solwazi Foundation
MUT was represented by the Marketing and Communications department, led by Mbali Mkhize; the department works closely with Menzi High School on several ongoing initiatives to strengthen the school-to-university pipeline. The department’s presence at the ceremony signalled the University’s integrated approach to stakeholder engagement, in which communication, partnership development, and community uplift are aligned.
During the ceremony, MUT was acknowledged as a key institutional partner. The recognition reflected MUT’s broader commitment to building sustainable relationships with high-performing township schools that consistently produce university-ready learners.
The highlight of the programme was the recognition of MUT benefactor Prince Qedi Zulu for his longstanding support of Menzi High School. His Royal Highness’ contribution was framed as an example of impactful community leadership that strengthens educational ecosystems. MUT’s relationship with Prince Qedi dates to 2022, when MUT honoured him at the university’s Engineering Graduation ceremony.
The top 10 academic achievers were presented with awards by members of the clergy, symbolising the school’s and its benefactor, Prince Qedi Zulu’s, commitment to spirituality. Prince Qedi Zulu, himself an accomplished gospel singer, opened the programme alongside a leading gospel artist Dumi Mkokstad, reinforcing the event’s spiritually grounded tone.
Delivering the keynote motivational address, Bishop Linda Mandindi of the Methodist Church, described Menzi High School as a community of action and purpose, emphasising perseverance, goal setting and resilience. Bishop Mandindi paid tribute to retired teachers, the board of trustees, and educators who have passed on, and commended learners for achieving a 100% pass despite challenging circumstances.
MUT representatives noted that Prince Qedi Zulu’s work in Umlazi Township aligns closely with the University’s Anchor Strategy, which prioritises empowering local communities, strengthening township-based education pathways and ensuring that learners are supported from basic education through to higher education.
For MUT, the invitation and recognition at the ICC ceremony underscored the importance of intentional stakeholder engagement driven by collaboration rather than visibility alone. It reaffirmed the University’s role as a destination for learning and an active partner in shaping educational success within the communities it serves. Giving the final vote of thanks, Prince Qedi Zulu epeatedly sang the song, “It is well with my soul”, signifying his family’s commitment towards empowering those on the margins and feeling content about it.