Newly elected UL Mpumalanga Alumni and Convocation Chapter leadership. Seated from left: Siphiwe Ndou (Chairperson), Monene Mhlongo (Treasurer), and Sifiso Silawule (Deputy Chairperson). Standing from left: Hedzane Phakami (EXCO Member), Thapelo Maluleka (Secretary) and Lancet Khoza (EXCO Member). Photos: Reuben Maake
By Makaepea Sathekge and Dikeledi Mahwiting – ulpublications@ul.ac.za
The University of Limpopo (UL) Mpumalanga Alumni and Convocation Chapter has elected a new leadership team dedicated to building on the legacy of its predecessors and implementing initiatives that create a meaningful impact in the province
The elective conference provided a platform for UL graduates to strengthen their networks, reflect on their shared academic experiences, and reaffirm their commitment to the University’s vision of empowerment through education.
The new Executive Committee will be led by Chairperson Siphiwe Ndou, who holds a Master of Administration in Public Administration. Sifiso Silawule with a Bachelor of Education, in Senior Phase and FET will serve as Deputy Chairperson. Thapelo Maluleka, who has an Honours in Public Administration will take on the role of Secretary. Monene Mhlongo, with a Bachelor of Development Planning and Management was elected Treasurer, and Lancelot Khoza, holding a Bachelor of Arts in Media Studies joins the team as an Executive Member.
Ndou expressed his gratitude to the alumni community for their trust in the new leadership and pledged to further the chapter’s mission. “We are committed to building on the strong foundation laid by our predecessors while expanding the alumni network across Mpumalanga,” he stated.
He emphasised the chapter’s focus on key priorities, including combating gender-based violence (GBV), initiating community development projects, and fostering opportunities for alumni engagement and empowerment. “Our goal is to ensure that the Mpumalanga Chapter becomes a beacon of leadership and positive impact in the province,” he added.
The event also featured participation from the Mpumalanga Economic Growth Agency (MEGA), Manganese Metal Company (MMC), and the Mpumalanga Tourism and Parks Agency (MTPA). Representatives from these organisations engaged alumni, discussing emerging opportunities within the province’s economic, funding, and development sectors.
Simangele Nkwinika, MEGA’s General Manager for Funding, outlined various funding pathways and investment opportunities available to UL graduates, encouraging collaboration between alumni and the province’s growth agencies.
The newly elected University of Limpopo Mpumalanga Alumni and Convocation Chapter is expected to provide strategic direction for the chapter over the next four years.