WSU VICE-CHANCELLOR CHARTS BOLD COURSE FOR 2025 AND BEYOND

Walter Sisulu University (WSU) Vice-Chancellor and Principal, Professor Rushiella Nolundi Songca, set the tone for an exciting year ahead during her 2025 academic opening address on Friday afternoon.

In her dynamic and inspiring speech, Prof Songca outlined a range of transformative initiatives aimed at propelling WSU into a new era of growth, innovation, and financial sustainability.

A key highlight of her address was the consolidation and institutionalisation of WSU’s entrepreneurship programmes, with the WSU brand ambassadors playing a central role in fostering a culture of innovation across all campuses.

She also reaffirmed the university’s commitment to maintaining and expanding learning and living spaces, ensuring an environment that supports both students and staff.

“We must focus on student success and improve the support we provide to our students. This is partly why we decided to reimagine LTD and consolidate student life efforts under the leadership of the ED for Student Affairs,” she said.

Financial sustainability remains a top priority, and Prof Songca stressed the need for smart spending and strategic investments. She pointed to initiatives such as the University shop and BnB as part of WSU’s plan to generate revenue and secure long-term financial stability.

“We must be prudent in our spending and learn to prioritise. Efforts have already started, such as the University shop and University BnB, and we are working towards instituting a university enterprise,” she added.

Additionally, she announced that the university’s rebranding and positioning initiative is in full swing, aimed at strengthening WSU’s unitary identity. Students and staff are encouraged to take part in shaping this identity by completing the ongoing questionnaire.

Looking ahead, Prof Songca underscored WSU’s ambition to cement itself as a Technology Infused African University.

Artificial Intelligence (AI) will play a pivotal role in both academic and business spheres, with the upcoming launch of the WSU AI Centre set to drive digital transformation across the institution.

She assured staff that engagement remains a priority, with upcoming campus visits planned to ensure collaboration and inclusivity in achieving WSU’s shared vision.

“I wish to turn to our priorities for 2025 and beyond. It goes without saying that the academic project is critical. Therefore, we must continue to focus on our research productivity and improve the quality of our teaching, learning, and success rates,” she said.

Wrapping up on a high note, Prof Songca expressed heartfelt appreciation for the dedication and hard work of WSU’s staff, acknowledging their critical role in the institution’s success.

“My heartfelt appreciation goes to our staff and students. We have come far, and while this initiative is still a work in progress, much still needs to be done. I urge us all, especially managers, to be kind, understanding, and patient with ourselves and those who have dedicated themselves to this project,” she said.

And in a call to unite the WSU spirit, she urged the community to rally behind the university’s rugby team this Valentine’s Day as they set their sights on bringing home that elusive cup.

By: Yolanda Palezweni