On Tuesday, 08 October 2019, the University of Venda (UNIVEN) and the Public Service Commission (PSC) signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) which guarantees a collaboration that will lead to future co-operation and projects of mutual benefit. The purpose of the Memorandum of Understanding is to set out the basic principles according to which both parties wish to conduct their future discussions in order to enter into formal agreements on a project-by-project basis. The signing of the MoU took place at the University’s Council Chambers.
Adv. Edward Lambani (standing) facilitating the signing of a MoU while Dr Bernard Nthambeleni (far right) and Commissioner George Mashaba (middle) are signing the MoU
The collaborative areas include, but are not limited to the following: to hold jointly organised public lecture series on subjects of mutual interest; to undertake collaborative research, teaching, learning, and share results; sharing of information shall be focused, on enhancing the capacity of both parties; to promote opportunities for internship and experiential learning for nominated students of law from the University of Venda at PSC platform or PSC Office in Limpopo; to provide access to research and library facility of University of Venda to the PSC; to provide a platform for the PSC to conduct workshop on governance and public service values at the conference facility of the University of Venda and both parties will collaborate in the spirit of good governance on areas as may be identified from time to time to promote ethics and good governance in public administration.
Vice-Chancellor and Principal, Dr Bernard Nthambeleni
Vice-Chancellor and Principal, Dr Bernard Nthambeleni said UNIVEN is pleased to be signing the MoU because it came at the time when the University is in the process of implementing a new strategic plan. He said this strategic plan and signing of the MoU will assist the University to reshape itself and change the way the University looks. “We are also aware that when producing future leaders, we will take into consideration that we produce quality leaders who become good citizens of this country. Our University shouldn’t only lead in research and creating future leaders but should also address challenges that the country is faced with.” Dr Nthambeleni said UNIVEN believes that this strategic plan will guide the University on how to conduct itself and to make sure that our graduates are also able to create jobs.
“We are pleased that the signing of this MoU will make sure that our students will be exposed to the workplace. This is not only a signing of a paper but something valuable and will assist our students. This initiative will drive the University into the right direction,” he said.
Commissioner George Mashamba
Commissioner George Mashamba said this is a great moment for the Public Service Commission. He said they have interacted with students from various institutions including UNIVEN students and from their experiences, they felt that there should be a MoU that will ensure that institutions of higher learning produce the best graduates. Commissioner Mashamba further said that PSC will provide graduates with necessary skills through internships and experiential learning. “We need to make sure that we do not only create future leaders but also responsible future citizens,” said Commissioner Mashamba.
Deputy Vice-Chancellor Operations, Dr Robert Martin
Deputy Vice-Chancellor Operations, Dr Robert Martin said the signing of this MoU couldn’t came at an appropriate time while UNIVEN is in the process of reviewing its strategic plan. He said this MoU will give a rewarding relationship.
Deputy Vice-Chancellor Academic, Prof Jan Crafford
Deputy Vice-Chancellor Academic, Prof Jan Crafford thanked Commissioner Mashaba and the Public Service Commission for considering it necessary to sign this MoU with UNIVEN. He thanked Commissioner Mashamba for the role that he has played in making sure that the signing of this MoU becomes a success. Prof Crafford further thanked both Dr Nthambeleni and Commissioner Mashamba for mentioning that they will ensure that UNIVEN do not only create future leaders but also responsible citizens of this country.
Dr Bernard Nthambeleni (third from right) and Commissioner George Mashamba (fourth from left) exchanging signed MoU documents while UNIVEN Senior Management members are posing with them
Issued by:
Department of Communications & Marketing
University of Venda
Tel: (015) 962 8525
Date: 09 October 2019
