TUT strengthens strategic ties with the Mpumalanga provincial government

A significant milestone was achieved by the Mbombela Campus under the leadership of Dr Ndiadivha Sikhweni, following a high-level engagement with the Premier of Mpumalanga, Mr Mandla Ndlovu, to strengthen collaboration between the Tshwane University of Technology (TUT) and the Mpumalanga Provincial Government.

Premier of Mpumalanga, Mr Mandla Ndlovu. The meeting, held on 14 September 2026, was a follow-up to an earlier engagement between the parties and formed part of ongoing efforts to establish a strategic and mutually beneficial partnership. The University’s delegation was encouraged by the Premier’s positive response and commitment to the initiative, as evidenced by his decision to invite several Members of the Executive Council (MECs) and Heads of Department (HODs) to participate in the discussions.

During the engagement, Dr Sikhweni presented a comprehensive overview of opportunities for collaboration between TUT and the province. The presentation highlighted areas where the University can contribute its expertise, innovation, research capabilities, and academic programmes to support provincial development priorities, while also creating valuable opportunities for students and staff.

The Premier and senior government representatives expressed considerable enthusiasm about the prospects of a formal partnership with TUT. Demonstrating a strong commitment to the initiative, the Premier requested that officials from various departments identify and propose specific areas for collaboration with the University to advance shared developmental objectives. The discussions underscored the significant potential for cooperation in areas that can contribute to skills development, research, innovation, community engagement and socio-economic growth within the province.

Campus Rector, Mbombela Campus, Dr Ndiadivha Sikhweni. The next anticipated step is the development and formalisation of a memorandum of understanding between TUT and the Mpumalanga Provincial Government. This exciting development positions the Mbombela Campus as a key strategic partner in advancing regional development and creating meaningful opportunities for both the University and the people of Mpumalanga.

The engagement represents a promising step towards a long-term partnership founded on shared goals, innovation and a commitment to transforming lives through education, research and collaborative development initiatives.

Delegates from Mbombela Campus and the Provincial Mpumalanga Government, led by Campus Rector, Dr Ndiadivha Sikhweni ( left, front row) and Premier of Mpumalanga, Mr Mandla Ndlovu (middle, front row).