Members of the UL Institutional Forum and event organisers during their induction on roles and responsibilities to advance the University’s mission. Photos: Malatji Monyelegwete
By Malatji Monyelegwete – malatji.monyelegwete@ul.ac.za
Following the recent election of members to the Institutional Forum (IF), the University of Limpopo (UL) conducted a two-day Induction Workshop to familiarise both newly elected and continuing members with the University’s governance framework, roles, and responsibilities that contribute to institutional development
The IF serves as a crucial advisory body within the University’s governance structure, promoting transformation, inclusivity, and ethical leadership. It offers a platform for diverse voices to engage in discussion on social justice, equality, and institutional culture, ensuring that decisions align with the principles of good governance and the Higher Education Act.
The workshop aimed to help members develop a unified vision for the Forum’s role in advancing UL’s transformation agenda and integrating values of ethics, integrity, and inclusion into all institutional practices. Additionally, guided participants in co-developing the IF Workplan for 2026–2029, which will outline strategic priorities for the next three years.
The IF now comprises seven new and eight continuing members, including Professor Kwena Masha, the University Registrar, who serves as the secretariat.
The Institutional Forum members appointed to serve for a three-year term are as follows:
| a) Two members of Council who are not employees or students of the University | Adv Bongani Bongo, and
Judge Mokgere Masipa |
| b) Two members from Executive Management | Dr Abbey Ngoepe, and
Joy Sixholo |
| c) Two members of Senate who are not members of Council | Prof Leseilane Mampuru, and
Prof Mabel Mphahlele-Makgwane |
| d) Two members of the academic staff who are not Senate or Council members | Dr Mantsha Modiba, and
Ms Thobile Nsimbini |
| e) Two members of support staff who are not members of Senate or Council | Dr Kisten Lucas, and
Kodupo Maphatane |
| F) Two members of the SRC who are not members of Senate or Council, and | Neo Letsoalo, and
Mogau Maredi |
| g) One (1) member from each of the recognised employee associations | Malesela Masenya |
| h) One (1) member of the Convocation | Lekoko Mkadimeng |
Joy Sixholo has been re-elected as Chairperson of the Institutional Forum for a three-year term.
Joy Sixholo, re-elected Chairperson of the Institutional Forum, stated that the IF remains a cornerstone of the University’s commitment to inclusivity and equitable governance. “The workshop was designed to orient newly elected members and enhances their understanding of the IF’’s origins, purpose, and expectations as outlined in the Higher Education Act and the UL Statute,” she explained.
Sixholo emphasised that ethical awareness is increasingly important in higher education, the corporate sector, and society at large. “As public institutions, we must cultivate ethical consciousness within our structures to ensure accountability and fairness in everything we do,” she said.
Joy Sixholo has been re-elected as Chairperson of the Institutional Forum for a three-year term.
George Mvalo, Director for Social Justice and Transformation at Vaal University of Technology (VUT) and one of the workshop facilitators, underscored the IF’s role in advising the University Council on important issues such as social justice, institutional culture, conflict management, dispute resolution, and executive appointments. “The IF plays a central role in ensuring democratic decision-making and fostering a culture of transparency within the institution,” he emphasised.
On the second day of the Institutional Forum Workshop, participants engaged in a dynamic mix of ethical reflection and inclusive practice, beginning with foundational discussions on ethical leadership frameworks and real-world dilemmas encountered in higher-education . Small groups delved deeply into the PRESS decision-making model and collaborated to identify concrete ethical behaviours relevant to UL.
Day 2 facilitators, Wandile Mthiyane (right) and Fiona Young from The Anti-Racist Hotdog, led the session.