A NEW CHAPTER OF EFFICIENCY AND INNOVATION BEGINS AT WSU WITH THE NEWLY APPOINTED DVC

Walter Sisulu University’s newly appointed Deputy Vice-Chancellor for Institutional Support & Development, Dr Nkgatho Tlale, steps into the role with a clarity of purpose shaped by decades of technical and academic leadership experience.

For him, joining WSU was not merely a career move, but a commitment to South Africa’s unfinished project of redress and development.

He said his decision to join the institution was rooted in a deep commitment to contributing to South Africa’s development.

“WSU serves communities that are among the most historically disadvantaged, and I view this role as an opportunity to use my experience and expertise to build sustainable systems, strengthen institutional performance, and positively impact lives,” he said.

Dr Tlale brings with him a formidable academic record: a Doctorate in Engineering with a specialisation in robotics, mechatronics, and advanced manufacturing; more than 100 research outputs; and the successful supervision of 19 postgraduate students, including nine at doctoral level.

He is registered both as a Professional Engineer and a Professional Project Manager, grounding his leadership style in evidence, precision, and measurable performance.

His professional journey spans the CSIR, Anglo American, Transnet, Massey University in New Zealand, the University of Pretoria, and the Tshwane University of Technology (TUT), where he helped steer major recovery and turnaround projects.

Among the achievements he highlighted with pride were the Advanced Manufacturing Technology Strategy for DHET, an autonomous vehicle framework for mining, and overseeing major automation for Transnet’s New Multi-Purpose Pipeline.

These milestones, he noted, have sharpened his belief in systems thinking, innovation, and disciplined execution.

At WSU, he plans to begin by examining the University’s internal engine room, the policies, systems, structures, and tools that shape daily operations.

“Where gaps exist, the priority will be to develop, standardise, and implement them effectively,” he explained, strengthening planning capability, improving coordination, and aligning operations with Vision 2030 stand at the centre of this approach.

A major pillar of his vision is digital transformation. For him, the integration of digital technologies and AI is no longer a luxury but a requirement for an institution preparing graduates for a rapidly evolving world.

He emphasised that innovation must become part of the University’s institutional DNA, embedded across teaching, learning, research, administration, and operations.

Yet his ambitions are not limited to systems and technology. He spoke passionately about culture, accountability, professionalism, collaboration, and service excellence, describing them as the heartbeat of a functional institution.

“I strongly believe in a customer-focused mindset, ensuring that the needs of students, staff, and stakeholders guide our decisions,” he said. Empowering teams, streamlining decision-making, and breaking bottlenecks are among the cultural shifts he hopes to nurture.

Dr Tlale also carries deep respect for the work of the late DVC, Mr Sinethemba Mpambane, whose impact on Institutional Support & Development is still felt across the University.

“I intend to honour Mr Mpambane’s legacy by maintaining and consolidating the systems and progress already achieved,” he reflected.

His goals include enhancing campus environments, expanding infrastructure partnerships, strengthening WSU Enterprise for financial sustainability, and improving the systems that directly affect the student experience.

With a blend of engineering precision, leadership discipline, and a personal commitment to uplifting historically marginalised communities, Dr Tlale steps into the role with the quiet confidence of someone who knows exactly why he is here and what he intends to build.

By: Yolanda Palezweni