Prof Herbert Maserumule.
During his welcome address, Prof Herbert Maserumule, Executive Dean of the Faculty, emphasized the vital role Alumni’s support and commitment to their alma mater could play in producing more future-ready graduates for the workplace. He urged the Alumni to be the key that unlocks relationships with the industry beneficial to the University and students. “Invest in what we aim to achieve as the key imperative of creating the future we want,” he added.
Dr Eric Pule, Director of the Advancement and Partnership Office, said it is crucial to have a tangible relationship with TUT Alumni. He also urged Alumni to become ambassadors of the University. “Your experience, skills, resources and expertise are vital for the Faculty in our quest to produce future-ready graduates; therefore, we encourage you to become part of the TUT journey,” he concluded.
President of TUT Convocation, Dakalo Makwarela encouraged Alumni to play their part in TUT’s Alumni activities, since their participation in these chapters will be instrumental in advancing the students and the University. He said: “This event reflects the unwavering commitment of all the stakeholders present to advance the cause of graduates, members of the Convocation and the University.”
Alumni from industry and the public sector also pledged their support to the University. According to keynote speaker, Dr Grace Vuma, TUT graduates are ready to collaborate with the University. “Where Alumni could provide mentorship, internships, and career opportunities, we will assist. We are creating an Alumni network that expands beyond professional connections for our Alumni to give back and support the next generation of leaders, as well as contribute to the continued success of TUT,” said Dr Vuma.
Oscar Tshifure, Business Development and Public Relations specialist acknowledged TUT as a source of knowledge, growth, and transformation. He said this institution has shaped, nurtured and prepared him and his fellow Alumni to face the challenges of the world. “This Alumni Chapter embodies that commitment, a platform where we can meet and reconnect to benefit the University and our Alumni community,” he said.
He added that he is looking forward to mutually beneficial collaboration with the University and its Alumni.
Manager of Alumni and Fundraising, Ms Shalate Davhana, facilitated the nomination process of establishing the Faculty’s Alumni Committee. She encouraged the new elects to preserve the University’s legacy of empowering students, through continually improving academic and financial inclusion at TUT. Twelve alumni from the public and private sectors volunteered to be co-opted as official representatives of the Faculty’s Alumni.