by Mosima Rafapa and Vision Nhlawulo Chauke
The Faculty of Engineering and the Built Environment (FEBE) at the Tshwane University of Technology (TUT), in collaboration with the Alumni Relations and Fundraising Office, hosted a dynamic Meet & Greet to officially welcome Prof Mxolisi Shongwe as its new Executive Dean. The event spotlighted the University’s growing emphasis on alumni involvement that goes beyond financial contributions.
Prof Shongwe, a respected academic and researcher rated C2 by the National Research Foundation (NRF), assumed his new role on 1 June 2025. His welcome event, held on 25 June, brought together alumni, Faculty leadership and industry partners to reinforce the University’s commitment to collaboration that enhances student opportunities and academic advancement.
New FEBE Executive Dean, Prof Mxolisi Shongwe
Shalate Davhana, Manager of Alumni Relations and Fundraising, highlighted the purpose of the gathering as twofold: to introduce the new Dean to the alumni community and to underscore the integral role that alumni play in TUT’s development.
“While financial support is important, we are equally focused on tapping into the wealth of knowledge, skills and networks that our alumni offer,” said Davhana.
She credited the tangible impact of alumni engagement, citing the example of Wonder Ndlovu, a committed alumnus and CEO of Mbula Research and Development. Over the past three years, Ndlovu has provided bursary sponsorships to deserving students and created employment opportunities for TUT graduates in engineering, public relations, marketing and administration.
“Since 2015, he has not only hired TUT students but has also pioneered innovative technology for enhancing sign language communication - an innovation now being adopted by the government,” Davhana noted.
Shalate Davhana, Manager of Alumni Relations and Fundraising at TUT
Davhana also encouraged alumni to support the University through mentorship and corporate social investment, urging them to invest in student-focused initiatives that promote career readiness. “With many of our alumni being leaders in their fields, there are opportunities for their organisations to offer mentorship, internships, or partner with us on developmental projects. We urge you to consider giving back in ways that prepare our students for the world of work.”
In his keynote address, Prof Shongwe praised the University’s alumni as key stakeholders in TUT’s success story. He reaffirmed the importance of fostering deeper ties with graduates and stressed the value they bring through initiatives like capstone projects and entrepreneurial mentorship.
“Our alumni is a valuable asset,” he said. “Through internships, mentorship, and industry collaboration, they equip our students with the real-world skills they need to thrive. We encourage you to remain active participants in shaping the future of TUT.”
The event also featured alumna and industrial engineer Patience Marwane, a pioneering figure in lean operations in the automotive industry. With more than 13 years of experience, Marwane has led transformational projects and was the first woman in her company to lead lean operations successfully.
TUT alumna and Industrial Engineer, Patience Marwane
Marwane used the platform to champion women in Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM), reflecting on the recent International Day for Women in Science.
“As a woman in Engineering, I urge the Faculty to support female engineers through mentorship and to inspire more girls to pursue STEM careers. Women currently make up only 20% of the engineering workforce—we must change that,” she said.
Alumni, industry partners, FEBE staff and executive members pictured with the Alumni Relations Office team at the 25 June Meet & Greet.