On Friday, 5 December 2025, the University of Venda marked a historic milestone at its auditorium with the official opening of four major infrastructure projects, valued at over R600 million. The developments include the Faculty of Health Sciences Building, the Advanced Nursing Science Simulation Building, the Main Administration Building, and the Punda Maria Road and Bridge Project. These state-of-the-art facilities are set to transform teaching, research, and campus accessibility, positioning UNIVEN as a hub for academic excellence and innovation in the region.
Hon Dr Nomusa Dube-Ncube, the Deputy Minister of Higher Education and Training
Hon Dr Nomusa Dube-Ncube, the Deputy Minister of Higher Education and Training, while giving her address, described the official opening of UNIVEN’s major infrastructure projects as “a partnership that signifies what we can achieve together in improving the quality of facilities in our institutions.” She highlighted that the developments, worth over R600 million, are “the single largest capacity development intervention dedicated to the future of historically disadvantaged universities.” Stressing the importance of employability, she stated: “It is not enough to invest in infrastructure and education if graduates remain unemployed, industry linkages must be part of our strategy.” She also called for prudent management and regular maintenance of facilities, noting that “appropriate management of infrastructure is a catalyst to a well-functioning system.” Concluding, she urged stakeholders to leverage these resources for research, innovation and skills development, saying: “Consider this your university, a beacon of hope and transformation for rural education.”
Prof Bernard Nthambeleni, Vice-Chancellor and Principal of the University of Venda
Prof Bernard Nthambeleni, Vice-Chancellor and Principal of the University of Venda, officially opened four major infrastructure projects worth approximately R613 million, marking a significant step in the institution’s transformation. These developments include the upgraded Main Administration Building, the Advanced Nursing Simulation Laboratory, the Faculty of Health Sciences Building, and the Punda Maria Road with its cable-stayed bridge and guardhouse. The Vice-Chancellor and Principal highlighted the Faculty of Health Sciences as one of the flagship facilities, featuring advanced simulation laboratories that mirror real clinical environments, immersive digital classrooms, and high-fidelity training equipment. Delivered despite challenges such as rising costs, environmental approvals, and technical complexities, these projects showcase UNIVEN’s commitment to modernisation, sustainability, and academic excellence. “Today marks a momentous occasion as we gather here to celebrate the launch of key infrastructure projects that will not only transform our landscape but also elevate the collective potential of our university,”said Professor Nthambeleni. He added, “Together, we have built not only a physical structure but also a solid foundation of teamwork and shared purpose.”
The Vice-Chancellor and Principal highlighted how these projects will enhance teaching, research, and community engagement. The new facilities are designed to support interdisciplinary learning, foster innovation, and strengthen health sciences education through advanced programmes and simulation-based training. “Our new facilities are designed with the future in mind. They incorporate the latest technologies, environmentally sustainable practices, and flexible spaces that adapt to the diverse needs of our academic community,” he explained. Beyond academic benefits, the projects created over 11,000 person-days of employment and channelled R24.6 million to local businesses, demonstrating UNIVEN’s dedication to economic empowerment and sustainable development. Professor Nthambeleni concluded, “We are shaping an institution that not only meets the challenges of today but is also poised to lead in the future.”
The Vice-Chancellor further informed the guests that we are in the final stages of launching a new three-year bachelor’s degree programme in Human Anatomy and Physiology. This programme aims to enhance the university’s health sciences offerings, equipping graduates for a variety of careers in health, medicine, and research. It serves as a foundational step toward clinical professions and further academic pursuits in biomedical sciences, health policy, and related areas.
He said that by implementing this qualification, the University of Venda will be better positioned to address local healthcare workforce demands and will foster collaborations with hospitals, clinics, and industry partners for internships and practical projects.
MEC for Public Works, Roads and Infrastructure Limpopo, Hon Ernest Rachoene
In his remarks, the MEC for Public Works, Roads and Infrastructure, Hon Ernest Rachoene, de-scribed the occasion as “the culmination of years of planning, coordination and hard work,” cel-ebrating the completion of major projects including the Main Administration building, the Ad-vanced Nursing Science Simulation Laboratory, the Faculty of Health Sciences building and the Punda Maria Road and Bridge.
He noted that these developments are “a sign of confidence in the university, confidence in our youth and confidence in the future of Limpopo.” Rachoene stressed that “degrees matter, but environments matter too,” highlighting how modern infrastructure enables learning, research and mobility. He urged students to “use these facilities fully, push yourself, ask difficult questions and prepare not only to take jobs but to create them,” affirming government’s commitment to investing in education and accessibility as a driver of growth and opportunity.
Mr Rudzani Mushweu, Chairperson of Council
Mr Rudzani Mushweu, Chairperson of UNIVEN Council, opening the ceremony described the oc-casion as “a celebration of vision, courage and progress.” He highlighted that the newly unveiled infrastructure represents more than physical structures, calling them “monuments of possibility” and symbols of academic innovation and investment in future generations.
Mr Mushweu stated that “infrastructure is not an end in itself, it is an enabler,” urging responsible use and optimisation to unlock their full potential. He concluded by encouraging continued ded-ication to building minds, solutions and a lasting legacy, before officially declaring the ceremony open.
Former SRC President, Mr Tsundzuka Hakamela
Former SRC President, Mr Tsundzuka Hakamela, reflected on the university’s remarkable trans-formation since his tenure as SRC President in 2018, noting that promises made during leader-ship appointments have materialised into visible progress. He highlighted significant academic growth, including a sharp rise in PhD graduates, and praised the improved campus infrastruc-ture and global competitiveness of the institution. Hakamela commended the university’s role in empowering communities, fostering smart village projects, and shaping future leaders. He concluded by expressing gratitude to management, staff, students, and the surrounding com-munity for their collective effort in making the university a beacon of hope and opportunity.
Mr Botwe Kraziya, UNIVEN Chief Operating Officer
Mr Botwe Kraziya, UNIVEN Chief Operating Officer conveyed heartfelt appreciation to the Gov-ernment, Council, partners, staff, students and guests, saying: “Thank you for being intentional about making universities like ours relevant and capable of providing high-quality education, even in a rural environment.” He praised the leadership of the Vice-Chancellor and Council for their vision and support and acknowledged the collective effort that has shaped the university’s progress. Looking ahead, he noted: “We have great plans for more infrastructure, new class-rooms, residences and even a satellite campus, because we want this university to take its right-ful place in the world.” Kraziya concluded by expressing gratitude to all who contributed, adding: “Today we are a proud university leading in engaged scholarship, and we look forward to growing from strength to strength.”
As the day progressed, guests witnessed the unveiling and ribbon-cutting of the gate leading to Punda Maria Road, which features a cable-stayed bridge and a guardhouse.
This was followed by a toast led by the Executive Dean of the Faculty of Health Sciences, Prof. Tshilidzi Mulaudzi, celebrating Unwavering Support, a Beacon of Hope, Everlasting Partnership, and Diligent Maintenance.
L-R: Thovhele Mmbangiseni Masia and Thovhele Kennedy Tshivhase
Unveiling of the bridge
Cutting the ribbon and Unveiling of the Punda Maria road
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Tel: 082 868 2218 / 082 868 1811
