On Monday, 14 April 2025, UNIVEN First-Year Students Voices Step into the Spotlight to share their journey with the DVC in an Empowering Engagement Session. This was more than just another Monday, it was a moment of connection, inspiration, and insight as first-year students gathered for a special engagement session with Prof Sebi Lekalakala-Mokgele, the Deputy Vice-Chancellor (DVC) of Teaching and Learning.
Held at the UNIVEN Auditorium, the engagement brought together a powerful lineup including Directors, Heads of Departments, the Dean of Students, and the energetic presence of the Student Representative Council (SRC). But most importantly, it was the students who took centre stage, and their experiences, challenges, and aspirations shaped the heartbeat of the engagement session.
On above photo: Prof Sebi Lekalakala-Mokgele, Deputy Vice-Chancellor Teaching and Learning
“UNIVEN is not a rural university. It is a university located in a rural area,” declared Prof Lekalakala-Mokgele during her welcome. Prof Lekalakala opened the session by stressing the importance of student engagement with executive management, emphasising that the university’s leadership is committed to supporting students. With passion and clarity, she urged students to understand the institution’s identity, uphold its core values of excellence, diversity, integrity, respect and transparency and to see themselves as active participants in the culture of academic and social transformation. Prof Lekalakala also called for a strong sense of belonging, community, and active communication, urging students to stay informed about key platforms and support services like funding opportunities.
Vusi Mokoena, SRC President
SRC President, Vusi Mokoena, echoed these sentiments with a stirring message: “Take this opportunity seriously how often do you get to engage with university management?” He encouraged students to speak up, seek help, and realise the power they hold in shaping their student experience.
Prof Thizwilondi Mudau, Head of Department Youth in Development
A particularly moving segment came from Prof Thizwilondi Mudau of the Youth in Devel-opment Department, who tackled the harrowing topic of Gender-Based Violence (GBV) head-on. “GBV is a monster tearing our society apart,” she said, citing shocking nation-al statistics. Through a symbolic zipline demonstration, she empowered young wom-en to understand their value, make wise decisions, and never lose sight of their academ-ic goals. “You are not cheap. Do not let reckless choices derail your future,” she implored.
Prof Lindiwe Mulaudzi of Centre for Higher Education Teaching and Learning (CHETL)
The conversation then shifted toward student well-being, with Prof Lindiwe Mulaudzi, Di-rector of Centre for Higher Education Teaching and Learning (CHETL) highlighting the need for holistic development. From mental and physical health to financial wellness and ac-ademic support, she reminded students of the resources available to help them thrive. “Knowing your limitations and asking for help is not a weakness, it’s wisdom,” she said.
In closing, Professor Lekalakala-Mokgele reassured students that their voices were heard, and their concerns acknowledged. She thanked the SRC, Deans, Directors, and students, emphasising the importance of continued dialogue between leadership and learners.
As the event concluded, one thing was clear, that UNIVEN’s first-year stu-dents are not just passengers in their academic journey. They are co-pi-lots, equipped with guidance, empowered with knowledge, and ready to soar.
Issued by:
Department of Marketing, Branding and Communication
University of Venda
Tel: 082 868 2218 / 082 868 1811
