The morning sun rose gently over Thohoyandou on Monday, 26 January 2026, casting warm light across the University of Venda’s sprawling campus. The University hosted the Portfolio Committee on Higher Education, a vital engagement marking a moment of accountability, reflection, and progress.
By 08:30, the Main Administration Building was already buzzing. Members of the Portfolio Committee, led by the Chairperson, Hon Tebogo Letsie, arrived to warm welcomes from the University’s leadership, who ushered them toward the Executive Management Boardroom. The atmosphere was cordial but focused everyone understood the significance of the day.
Before the presentations, the delegation embarked on a site visit, touring key facilities: the Disability student unit, student residences, the registration venue, the Advanced Nursing Sim-ulation building, the Health Sciences building, and Punda Maria road and gate. Everywhere the committee went, they interacted with staff and students, appreciating the spirit of resilience and ambition that characterizes the University of Venda.
The formal meeting at the University Auditorium was the emotional heart of the visit. There, the Chairperson of the Portfolio Committee delivered remarks that resonated deeply with all in at-tendance.
During this session, the Chairperson of Council, Mr Rudzani Mushweu, delivered welcome re-marks, after which the Vice-Chancellor and Principal, Prof Bernard Nthambeleni, delivered a comprehensive presentation on the University’s achievements, challenges, and strategic pri-orities.
The Vice-Chancellor and Principal outlined progress on infrastructure development, financial sustainability, academic performance, research output, and student support initiatives. Other presentations were made by the Chairperson of the Institutional Forum, Prof Thizwilondi Mudau; the SRC President, Mr Tirhani Mathye; the NEHAWU Secretary and President, Mr Ambros Mogashoa; and Dr Justice Makhanikhe, respectively. The committee listened attentively, taking notes and engaging with thoughtful questions that demonstrated a deep interest in the University’s journey.
The Chairperson of the Portfolio Committee expressed confidence in the University’s com-mitment to transformation, acknowledging the steps taken to improve governance, enhance teaching and learning environments, and expand community engagement initiatives. He em-phasised that the University of Venda plays a critical role in advancing access to higher educa-tion, particularly for rural and historically disadvantaged communities.
In his concluding remarks, the Chairperson of the Portfolio Committee applauded the Universi-ty’s leadership for demonstrating stability, strategic vision, and dedication to student success. At the same time, he urged the institution to continue strengthening areas such as infrastruc-ture maintenance, research capacity building, and partnerships with industry and government.
Above all, the Chairperson encouraged the University to remain steadfast in its mission to em-power the region, stating, “The work done here not only uplifts the University, but it also uplifts families, communities, and the future of our nation.”
As the visit concluded at 17:00, a sense of accomplishment filled the air. The day had been constructive, honest, and forward-looking. Council, Executive Management, Staff, and students felt seen and heard, while the Portfolio Committee departed with a deeper appreciation of the University’s progress and potential.
The visit became more than an oversight exercise; it became a reaffirmation of the University of Venda’s place as a beacon of opportunity and transformation in South Africa’s higher edu-cation landscape.
Issued by:
Department of Marketing, Branding and Communication University of Venda
Tel: 082 868 2218 / 082 868 1811
