WSU EXECUTIVE LEADERSHIP ENGAGES MTHATHA STAFF TO CHART A WAY FORWARD

Walter Sisulu University’s Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Rushiella Songca, led another high-level engagement — this time with staff members at the Mthatha Campus — as part of an ongoing drive to restore calmness, rebuild trust, and strengthen institutional stability following recent disruptions.

The engagement, held on Thursday, brought together the Executive Management Committee (EMC) and Mthatha Campus academic and support staff. The session formed part of a broader institutional effort to ensure transparent dialogue and collective problem-solving in the wake of recent campus student protest.

Among the key concerns raised by staff was the lack of consistent communication from management, with many employees expressing frustration at being left in the dark during recent developments. Staff urged the executive team to improve transparency and to involve them more actively in institutional decision-making — especially during times of crisis.

Prof. Songca acknowledged the critical role of communication in addressing challenges and improving operations.

She emphasised the necessity of clear and timely communication, particularly during critical periods such as public holidays.

She also highlighted the responsibility of managers in activating communication strategies, and the value of internal reflection to enhance communication within the executive team.

“From these engagements, let us all reflect on how to improve communication — and for Executive Management to be more visible at our Mthatha Campus,” she said.

A major point of concern was the tragic shooting incident that left two students injured and claimed the life of Sisonke Mbolekwa in April. Staff members raised questions regarding the university’s response, including the widely discussed letter addressed to Mr. Manelisi Mampane. There were calls for clarity on WSU’s official stance and ongoing support for the affected families and the broader campus community.

The Executive Management responded openly, with Prof. Songca and the Registrar, Dr Lulamile Ntonzima providing clarity on the university’s role in supporting the Mbolekwa family. They explained that the letter to Mr. Mampane was part of a legally guided, employment-related process and was never intended to interfere with court proceedings.

“The letter was written on the same day of the incident, following a decision by the EMC, and in line with our legal duty to support both staff and students. On that same day, a team from Student Affairs visited the family of the late Mbolekwa,” said Prof. Songca.

She further detailed the efforts made by university management, including the University Council, which were carried out quietly and respectfully in line with African cultural values. “It is African to assist with dignity, not for display,” she noted. She firmly reiterated that this was a principled decision, and that the matter is now before the court. WSU, she stressed, remains committed to allowing the legal process to unfold without interference. She also dismissed unfounded allegations of personal involvement or ties with the presiding judge.

Infrastructure was another key issue raised during the engagement, with staff pointing out longstanding challenges in both academic and residential facilities. There was consensus that these matters require urgent attention to improve the campus environment for both students and employees.

Concerns about the condition of student residences were acknowledged. Addressing staff, Deputy Vice-Chancellor for Institutional Support and Development, Mr. Sinethemba Mpambane, committed to lobbying for funding to complete delayed maintenance work and long-overdue revamp projects.

Management responded to all concerns with detailed feedback and a renewed commitment to improvement, acknowledging past shortcomings — particularly in communication — and pledging to close those gaps going forward. Among the key updates shared was the Senate’s reaffirmation of its 2023 decision against online examinations, citing quality assurance concerns and a preference for maintaining academic standards.

In charting the way forward, Prof. Songca called for the increased visibility of executive leadership at Mthatha Campus, consistent communication touchpoints, and ongoing engagement with staff to ensure trust is rebuilt and sustained.

By: Yolanda Palezweni