Academic year officially kicks off at Economics and Finance

After a fun-packed and engaging Orientation week, the Faculty of Economics and Finance has officially welcomed first year students and started the 2026 academic year.

Excited to begin their journey at the Tshwane University of Technology, the first years attended the five-day orientation in numbers, eager to know what awaits them as they start the next phase in their lives. The orientation included a campus tour and sessions with various directorates, explaining how they contribute to making students’ academic and extra curriculum experience seamless. 

Welcoming the students, the Acting Campus Rector, Dr Elikanah Lumadi, congratulated them for meeting TUT’s academic requirements. He emphasized the importance of the opportunity granted to the students, by their families as well as the various bursaries and funding organisations.

“It is important to remember, you cannot be here to play. You cannot waste this opportunity. In 2026, choose success and not failure. We are here to ensure that whoever is here to study is protected and gets the relevant resources to support them in fulfilling their goals,” he said.

Echoing the same sentiments, the Dean of the Faculty of Economics and Finance, Prof Polly Masigo, encouraged students to enjoy their time at TUT responsibly and make the most of their time as students. Reflecting on the changes introduced during the COVID-19 pandemic, Prof Mashigo talked about the learning systems available to students, while she highlighted how these developments continue to shape and prepare students for their professional careers.

“This is a big transition from high school to University and you should not relax and think you are still in high school. TUT’s standards are very high. The reason you were selected to study here is because you are the cream of the crop. Many of your peers who wanted to study at this university, did not make the grade. You should take a moment to acknowledge and appreciate your efforts and achievement,” she encouraged.

Cautioning the first-years against the scourge of Gender Based Violence (GBV) in society, Prof Mashigo warned that TUT has adopted a Zero Tolerance Policy against GBV and will not tolerate any violence or abuse at any level. 

Various heads of departments stressed the importance of class attendance, emphasizing that all decision students make will carry either good or bad consequences.  They reminded them of the challenges ahead while urging them to be resilient and dedicated.