The 2026 Unisa Principal and Vice-Chancellor’s Lekgotla offered a dynamic platform for reflection, dialogue and forward-looking strategy. Delegates from across the university shared candid insights on leadership, institutional culture and the future direction of higher education. From young academics to professionals and senior managers, these voices capture the pulse of the Lekgotla.

Below, Unisans share their experiences and reflections from the floor.

Dr Athi Mavukwana, Lecturer, Department of Chemical Engineering, College of Science, Engineering and Technology

"Management must create safe platforms for chairs of department (CODs) to share challenges and solutions aligned with the university’s strategic objectives. One-size-fits-all policies can limit innovation. Policy must be agile; otherwise, departments struggle to implement new strategies. Ongoing capacity development for both new and existing CODs is critical. Clear guidelines on recognising technical and vocational education and training (TVET) qualifications are also needed, as current practices often reject capable students who deserve opportunities in a comprehensive education institution."

Prof Mokhele Madise, Director: School of Humanities, College of Human Sciences

"The Lekgotla focused on assessing past achievements and planning for the future, aiming to enhance service delivery in line with the 2030 strategy. Unisa faces growing competition, especially in online education, as traditional universities adopt open distance and e-Learning (ODeL) models. Young academics and postdoctoral fellows brought energy and fresh perspectives, particularly around mentorship in teaching, research and engaged scholarship. The event reinforced the value of reassessing practices and understanding stakeholder perceptions to strengthen Unisa’s offerings."

Dr Mantepu MaseTshaba, Acting Executive Dean, College of Economic and Management Sciences

"The Lekgotla highlighted a shift from elegant strategies to measurable, data-driven performance. Governance, sustainability and stewardship are now critical Catalytic Niche Areas (CNAs) – not just compliance obligations, but economic functions, risk management strategies and custodianship of resources. Delegated authority discussions challenged managers to be change shapers rather than respondents. Meaningful transformation requires clarity, courage and accountability for every decision and resource."

Kgaugelo Ndala, Office of the Executive Director, Legal Services

"This was my first Lekgotla, and it was inspiring. The university’s strategic journey (2026-2030) involved both young academics and retired professors, highlighting continuity in knowledge and mentorship. CNAs are central to advancing careers and responding to the National Development Plan. The greatest risk is ensuring collective ownership, commitment and an excellence mindset across all staff."

Neo Molefi-Kau, Senior Lecturer, Taxation Department, College of Accounting Sciences

"Attending the Lekgotla was affirming and thought-provoking. I valued the space for open engagement and reflection, particularly the focus on supporting young academics and increasing transparency in memoranda of understanding (MOUs). Breakaway sessions emphasised practical solutions, process streamlining and responsible use of technology. The Lekgotla left me with a strong sense that transformation is possible if implementation, coordination and investment in people are prioritised."

Dr Phindile Nene, Lecturer, Department of Business Management, College of Economic and Management Sciences

"The experience affirmed Unisa’s intentional leadership. It reminded me of the African philosophy: 'Wathinta abafazi wathinta imbokodo' – resilient leadership inspires young academic women to see their place in leadership. The Lekgotla highlighted opportunities for growth, collaboration and academic development, particularly for postdoctoral fellows, while demonstrating the university’s commitment to shaping lives across South Africa and the continent."

Dr Mzwanele Ntshwanti, Lecturer, School of Economics and Financial Sciences, College of Economic and Management Sciences

"The Lekgotla was evidence-based, complete and coherent. It focused on operational improvements rather than abstract deliberation. Challenges such as the lack of structured mentorship for postdoctoral fellows were highlighted, along with actionable solutions. Continuous mentorship and clear key performance indicators (KPIs) are crucial for sustaining academic development and institutional memory. Attending the Unisa 2026 Lekgotla was a defining moment, offering invaluable insight into the broader vision of the university."

Dr Mzwanele Ntshwanti

Dr Kate Mmalebuso Ngobeni, Senior Lecturer, Marketing and Retail Management, College of Economic and Management Sciences

"For me, the Lekgotla reignited my passion for teaching, learning and research. It provided perspective, reminding me that our daily academic responsibilities are part of a much larger institutional mission. The vision has been articulated, the environment is enabling, and the support structures are strengthening. It is up to us as young academics to push boundaries, create opportunities and contribute boldly, knowing we are backed by a university that is intentional about excellence and impact."

Dr Kate Mmalebuso Ngobeni

The 2026 Principal and Vice-Chancellor’s Lekgotla was a powerful space for dialogue, reflection and strategy. Delegates highlighted both the challenges and opportunities, emphasising agile policies, structured mentorship, data-driven performance and collective ownership of strategic priorities. Above all, the Lekgotla underscored Unisa’s commitment to student success, academic excellence and innovation in a rapidly evolving higher education landscape.

* By Lesego Chiloane, Journalist, Department of Institutional Advancement

** Photography by Shooheima Champion, Multimedia Centre