By Reatlegile Ratlagane
Driven by a passion for teaching and learning, Tshwane University of Technology’s Head of Public Sector Finance, Sipho Maluleke, is on a mission to produce industry-ready graduates. His leadership combines academic excellence with a commitment to helping students develop strong interpersonal skills and early exposure to the world of economics and finance.
Maluleke’s journey in the field began with a deep sense of hope and determination. Owing to his background in tutoring and a genuine love for education, he was awarded a prestigious scholarship from the Dean of the Faculty of Economics and Finance in 2011 to further his studies. By 2014, he joined the Department of Public Sector Finance as a lecturer, further strengthening his place in academia.
Now leading the department, Maluleke remains grounded in the classroom. Concerned about the performance of incoming students, he made the deliberate choice to return to teaching first-year classes. According to him, this early academic foundation is crucial and encourages students to familiarise themselves with key stakeholders in the finance sector.
“The most important thing is knowing your field. Identify the key stakeholders in the economics and finance industry, follow their work, attend their events - and make sure they know who you are. The biggest mistake is graduating with distinctions while remaining unknown in the industry. Many of these sectors have student chapters or organisations. Join them,” he said.
Beyond his academic work, Maluleke is actively engaged in his community in Mogogelo Village, North West. He has a strong interest in music and soccer and is also involved in local politics, reflecting his commitment to service both inside and outside the University.
Currently pursuing his doctorate, Maluleke leads by example. He actively motivates colleagues to further their studies and is spearheading the development of short learning programmes designed to help with upskilling of professionals in the public sector.
“We often hear from people in the industry about the skills deficit in the public sector. As a University, it is our responsibility to respond with short courses that directly address those gaps.”
A dedicated educator, mentor and community leader, Sipho Maluleke’s holistic approach to academic leadership ensures that his students are not only qualified on paper, but also prepared to thrive in the real world.
Tshwane University of Technology’s Head of Public Sector Finance, Sipho Maluleke