WSU MOVES TO STRENGTHEN TIES WITH MEDIA HOUSES

Walter Sisulu University (WSU) is forging stronger relationships with key media stakeholders, ensuring that its story, rooted in transformation, academic excellence, and community impact, is told far and wide.

In a strategic move to elevate the university’s profile and foster meaningful partnerships, WSU Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Rushiella Songca, and Deputy Vice-Chancellor for Institutional Support, Mr. Sinethemba Mpambane, met with the leadership of the Daily Dispatch in February.

The engagement was not just about publicity, but a crucial step towards collaboration, knowledge exchange, and industry alignment for WSU students and graduates.

This follows Prof. Songca’s bold Opening Address earlier in February, where she outlined the university’s key focus areas for the year and beyond—positioning WSU as a formidable competitor on both national and international stages.

The university has embarked on an ambitious infrastructure development journey—revamping student residences, modernising classrooms, and rehabilitating derelict buildings to create a world-class learning environment.

“The focus was to put our house in order before we could confidently position ourselves. That is why we prioritised infrastructural transformation, the consolidation of faculties to improve qualification quality, and the enhancement of student living and learning spaces,” she said.

Both executives highlighted that WSU’s commitment to transformation extends beyond infrastructure and technology—it is about empowering students with confidence, leadership skills, and industry exposure.

“When it comes to our students, we are in the business of instilling confidence. We believe that when you respect people, they respect you in return. That’s why we are determined to ensure our students are not only academically prepared, but also equipped for leadership roles,” said Prof. Songca.

The Daily Dispatch leadership warmly welcomed WSU’s engagement, expressing enthusiasm for a long-term partnership.

They pledged their support in amplifying WSU’s initiatives and invited the university to send journalism students for shadowing opportunities, allowing them to gain real-world experience alongside seasoned journalists.

“We are excited about working with WSU and believe this partnership can be mutually beneficial. Our newsroom doors are open to WSU journalism students—we want to see them gaining hands-on experience and developing into outstanding professionals,” said the Daily Dispatch management team.

The meeting marked the beginning of a renewed relationship between WSU and the media, ensuring that the university’s progress, innovations, and student successes are widely recognised.

As WSU continues to evolve, its collaboration with key stakeholders like the Daily Dispatch will play a pivotal role in shaping its public image and securing opportunities for students, staff, and the broader community.

By: Yolanda Palezweni