TUT strengthens Alumni engagement with launch of Science Alumni Chapter

TUT’s Alumni Relations Office (ARO) has launched the Faculty of Science Alumni Chapter on Friday, 13 March 2026 at Denisburg towards strengthening partnerships with its graduates.

Executive Dean of the Faculty of Science, Prof Ntebogeng Mokgalaka-Fleischmann. During the intimate gathering, business and industry leaders, Deans, Heads of Departments and CEOs, gathered to celebrate the beginning of a renewed commitment to strengthening the relationship between the University, its distinguished alumni and the broader scientific and professional community.

Over the past five years, the Alumni Relations Office has now successfully launched eight Faculty and special alumni chapters, demonstrating the University’s commitment to building a vibrant and engaged alumni network.

Welcoming guests, Executive Dean of the Faculty of Science, Prof Ntebogeng Mokgalaka-Fleischmann, reflected on the significance of alumni returning to their alma mater, where many of their professional journeys began.

“I am certain all the fond memories you have about your time at TUT were evoked as you drove through the gates,” she said.

She explained that the establishment of the alumni chapter is intended to create an engaging ecosystem that strengthens the connection between academia, the professional and business worlds.

“As scientists and professionals, we know that science is the foundation of innovation and progress. The world today faces complex challenges such as climate change, pandemics, technological disruption, environmental sustainability and, closer to home, youth unemployment and poverty.”

Prof Mokgalaka-Fleischmann added that strengthening collaboration between the University and industry will help ensure that the next generation of graduates remains both locally relevant and globally competitive.

Manager for Alumni Relations and Fundraising, Shalate Davhana. She further emphasised the importance of alumni involvement in shaping the future of the faculty by mentoring young graduates, sharing industry expertise and contributing to curriculum development.

“Be ambassadors for our University. Mentor a young graduate, share your industry experience to help shape the curriculum and call on other alumni with influence in business, industry and research,” she encouraged.

Manager for Alumni Relations and Fundraising, Shalate Davhana, described the launch as more than just a formal milestone.

“This is the creation of a dynamic platform that connects academic excellence with professional success,” she said. “Through this Faculty chapter, we are building a community where scientists, scholars and industry leaders can collaborate, mentor emerging talent and support the continued growth of the Faculty of Science.”

The newly elected Chairperson of the Faculty of Science Alumni Chapter, Phindile Mahlangu, highlighted the importance of adopting an integrated and resource-conscious approach in supporting the Faculty.

The newly elected Chairperson of the Faculty of Science Alumni Chapter, Phindile Mahlangu. She explained that while financial contributions remain important, the chapter also seeks to maximise existing resources and encourage contributions in other meaningful ways.

“While are we looking at the funding aspect, which is important, we are also exploring ways to maximise the resources we already have, including approaches that support a circular economy and help us preserve what we have,” she said.

Mahlangu ncouraged industry professionals to contribute their expertise to the development of future scientists.

“We can gain so much through collaboration. I encourage experts in industry to come forward with both financial support and technical expertise. Participate as guest lecturers, industry mentors or even contribute a single lecture that adds real-world insight to the academic experience.”

The newly elected Committee Members of the Faculty of Science Alumni Chapter. Faculty of Science HODs, Alumni pose for a picture along side the faculty’s Executive Dean, Prof Ntebogeng Mokgalaka-Fleischmann following the launch of the faculty’s alumni chapter.