Historic Appointment of First Woman Vice-Chancellor at Mangosuthu University of Technology

In a landmark decision, Mangosuthu University of Technology (MUT) has announced the appointment of Professor Nokuthula Sibiya as its first woman Vice-Chancellor. This historic event marks a significant step towards gender equality in higher education leadership, fulfilling a long-held vision of the university’s founder, the late Inkosi Mangosuthu Buthelezi.

Inkosi Zuzifa kaMangosuthu Buthelezi, son of the late Inkosi Mangosuthu Buthelezi, expressed his profound appreciation for this milestone. In an interview with the Daily News, Inkosi Buthelezi highlighted the significance of this appointment, noting that it reflects his father’s enduring commitment to advancing women’s roles in senior management across both public and private sectors. “We are grateful for the appointment of Professor Sibiya. This is a great milestone for the university to have entrusted a woman with such a senior and crucial leadership position for the first time in its history. I, together with my family, wish to congratulate Professor Sibiya,” said Inkosi Buthelezi.

Inkosi Buthelezi also emphasized the importance of the university as part of his father’s legacy, underscoring his father’s passion for education. The late Inkosi Mangosuthu Buthelezi, who founded the university 45 years ago with the support of the Oppenheimer family, was dedicated to establishing educational institutions, including numerous teacher colleges during his tenure as chief minister of the KwaZulu government. Even in his final days, he urged his family to maintain close ties with the university’s leadership and offer support whenever needed.

MUT, located in uMlazi, hailed Professor Sibiya’s appointment as a pivotal moment in its 45-year history. The university described this groundbreaking decision as a new chapter of academic excellence, innovation, and community engagement. Professor Sibiya, who also hails from uMlazi, will officially assume her role as Vice-Chancellor on Thursday.

The appointment of Professor Sibiya is not just a personal triumph but a symbol of progress for women in academia. It sets a precedent for future generations, demonstrating that leadership roles in education are attainable for all, regardless of gender. As MUT embarks on this new era, the university community and its stakeholders look forward to the transformative leadership and vision that Professor Sibiya will bring to the institution.