The University of Venda (UNIVEN) has ushered in a new chapter of collaborative leadership with the official introduction of Acting Chief Operating Officer (COO), Dr Takalani Dzaga, during a Corporate Services staff engagement held on 3 August 2026 at the Council Chambers.
Dr Takalani Dzaga, Acting Chief Operating Officer (COO)
Bringing together staff members from across the Corporate Services Division, the engagement provided an opportunity for Dr Dzaga to share his leadership vision, outline his strategic priorities and reaffirm the Division’s critical role in advancing the University’s 2026–2030 Strategic Plan and Vision 2040.
Addressing colleagues, Dr Dzaga expressed gratitude for the confidence placed in him to serve in the acting role, saying he had accepted the responsibility with humility and a commitment to ensuring stability, continuity and excellence in the University’s operations.
Having served the University of Venda for more than three decades, Dr Dzaga acknowledged that achieving the institution’s strategic ambitions would require collective effort and the expertise of colleagues across the Corporate Services Division. He emphasised that the successful implementation of the University’s strategic priorities depends on strong collaboration across all directorates and encouraged staff to openly share achievements, challenges and risks so that practical solutions could be developed collectively.
He outlined a set of principles that he considers to be fundamental to effective leadership and institutional success during this interim arrangement, including respect, ethical leadership, transparency, accountability, integrity, effective communication, respect for the rule of law, a positive attitude and excellence in service delivery. Reaffirming the Corporate Services Division’s significant role in supporting the University’s teaching, research and community engagement mandate, Dr Dzaga committed to fostering regular engagement with directors and staff to strengthen institutional performance and promote a culture of continuous improvement.
“Together, I am confident that if we adhere to these principles and continue to work with unity, cooperation and professionalism, we will achieve what is expected of us as a division. I remain committed to maintaining an open-door approach, listening to your expectations and working alongside you to advance the University’s strategic priorities,” said Acting Chief Operating Officer, Dr Takalani Dzaga.
Mrs Uanda Ndou, Director Human Resources
The engagement opened with a prayer led by Director of Human Resources, Mrs Uanda Ndou, who reflected on Isaiah 62:6, a scripture that speaks of faithful watchmen who remain steadfast in prayer and committed to the fulfilment of God’s promises. She welcomed Dr Dzaga to his new role and encouraged staff to embrace unity, collaboration and shared responsibility during this important period of transition.
Mr Sam Khoza, Director Information Communication and Technology (ICT)
Welcoming the Acting COO on behalf of the Division, Director of Information and Communication Technology, Mr Sam Khoza, congratulated Dr Dzaga on his appointment and expressed confidence in his leadership. He urged colleagues to work collectively in supporting the Acting COO, emphasising that the success of the Corporate Services Division depends on every directorate contributing towards the University’s strategic objectives. He further reminded staff that institutional matters should continue to follow the appropriate governance channels while reinforcing the Division’s shared responsibility to deliver quality services and ensure that no department is left behind.
The session also enabled staff members to introduce themselves and provide brief overviews of their respective portfolios, responsibilities and day-to-day operations. The interactive exchange strengthened understanding of the Division’s diverse functions while fostering stronger professional relationships and greater collaboration across departments.
Dr Phillia Vukea, Director Grants Management
Speaking on behalf of the Division, Dr Philia Vukea thanked Dr Dzaga for convening the engagement and sharing his vision for the future of Corporate Services. She welcomed his commitment to ongoing engagement with directors, managers and staff, noting that continuous dialogue would strengthen professionalism, teamwork and collective accountability as the University advances its strategic agenda.
Dr Vukea also expressed appreciation to directors, managers and Heads of Departments for their participation and valuable contributions, highlighting the importance of maintaining a united Corporate Services Division committed to delivering excellence in support of the University’s mission.
The engagement concluded with an interactive question-and-answer session during which staff members exchanged ideas, shared insights and raised issues for discussion with the Acting COO. The discussions reflected a shared commitment to transparency, continuous improvement and institutional excellence.
As the University of Venda embarks on this new phase under Dr Dzaga’s acting leadership, the engagement reaffirmed the institution’s commitment to collaborative leadership, operational excellence and a people-centred approach to service delivery.
Corporate Services Division staff members pose for a group photo with the Acting Chief Operating Officer, Dr Takalani Dzaga (fourth from left)
Issued by:
Department of Marketing, Branding & Communication
University of Venda
Tel: 082 868 2218 / 082 868 1811
Date: 04 August 2026
