IF INDUCTION SPARKS NEW ERA OF PURPOSE-DRIVEN LEADERSHIP AT WSU

Against the calming backdrop of the Indian Ocean, Walter Sisulu University’s Institutional Forum (IF) members gathered at Mpekweni Beach Resort for an induction that became far more than a governance orientation, but a moment of reflection, unity, and renewed purpose for the future of the institution.

Over the weekend, IF members immersed themselves in conversations that challenged traditional leadership thinking, encouraged collaboration, and reignited a shared commitment to building a university anchored in inclusivity, identity and ethical governance.

The programme featured strategic engagements, leadership dialogues and values-driven reflections that collectively redefined the Forum’s role within the university.

Vice-Chancellor and Principal Dr Thandi Mgwebi, who addressed the members virtually, reminded the Forum of its strategic importance in shaping the university’s future.

She emphasised that WSU’s transformation journey requires leaders who understand both governance and people.

“The success of our strategy depends on collective leadership, accountability and ensuring that every voice within the university community feels heard and valued,” she said, urging IF members to remain purposeful in guiding the institution’s strategic direction.

Reflecting on the experience, IF Chairperson Mr Sandiso Mbongo described the induction as transformative, noting that it exceeded traditional governance training expectations.

“We got more than we bargained for, the workshop went beyond leadership responsibilities from a governance point of view. It also touched on soft leadership infrastructure, understanding our students, understanding our staff and understanding the realities they come from,” he said.

He emphasised that leadership decisions within the university carry emotional and cultural implications that shape how individuals experience the institution.

“In building a university of access does not only refer to admitting students, but also to creating a sense of belonging where people feel seen, heard and part of the institution’s success,” he said.

Mbongo further stressed that the Forum aims to reposition WSU’s leadership culture by embracing the values of the university’s namesake, Walter Sisulu, through what members refer to as doing things “the Xhamela way”.

“Xhamela was a man of integrity, honesty, courage and excellence. These values must anchor how we behave, how we lead and how we make decisions,” he said, adding that the Forum is committed to develop an inclusive environment where all stakeholders are recognised as contributors to institutional growth.

From a student perspective, SRC representative and IF member Lerato Malikane described the induction as insightful and empowering, highlighting the importance of direct student participation in governance platforms.

“Overall, the induction was productive. It gave us an insight into what IF is about and allowed us to have a direct say instead of communicating through other structures,” she said.

Malikane also called for strengthened unity within the Forum, emphasising that while members may represent different constituencies, the focus must remain on a unified institutional voice that prioritises student and staff interests.

As the induction concluded, members left Mpekweni not only with a clearer understanding of their legislative responsibilities but with a renewed sense of collective identity and moral obligation to shape WSU’s future.

BY: Yolanda Palezweni