The University of Venda (UNIVEN) is making significant strides in expanding its presence in West Africa. A team led by the Director Marketing Branding and Communication, Dr Takalani Dzaga which includes Matome Mokoena and Mirero Makhado from International Relations and Partnerships Directorate participated in the World View Education Fair between 10 and 15 March 2025 in Lagos, Nigeria and Accra, Ghana. The Education Fair ended on a high note on Saturday, 15 March 2025.
On the photo L-R: Matome Mokoena, Mirero Makhado, Ptrick Matshisevhe and Takalani Dzaga
The team paid a courtesy visit to the Consulate General of the Republic of South Africa in Lagos, Nigeria where they were warmly received by the UNIVEN alumnus, Mr Patrick Matshisevhe, Counsellor, Immigration and Civic Services.
Front row L-R: Mirero Makhado, Takalani Dzaga and Matome Mokoena with some of the prospective students
his strategic move is part of the university’s broader mission to enhance its international profile and attract a diverse student body across the continent. The team had the opportunity to engage with diverse stakeholders, ensuring that prospective international students receive comprehensive information about the academic programmes, admission requirements, and campus life at UNIVEN. The information shared entailed various undergraduate and postgraduate programmes across its four faculties: Science, Engineering and Agriculture; Management, Com-merce and Law; Humanities, Social Sciences and Education; and Health Sciences.
During the engagements, the team unwaveringly mentioned that with state-of-the-art facilities, including modern laboratories, well-equipped libraries, and advanced ICT infrastructure, UNIVEN provides an enriching learning environment for its students.
One of UNIVEN’s core values is diversity, and the university is dedicated to creating an inclusive environment where students from diverse cultural backgrounds can thrive. By increasing its footprint in West Africa, UNIVEN aims to foster a multicultural campus community that enriches the educational experience for all students.
The University of Venda’s efforts to expand its footprint in West Africa are expected to yield significant benefits. By attracting talented students from the region, UNIVEN not only en-hances its academic community but also contributes to the continent’s socio-economic development. As the university continues to build strong partnerships and implement innovative recruitment strategies, it is poised to become a leading institution of higher learning in Africa.
L-R: Takalani Dzaga, Prof John Kwaku Mensah Mawutor , Matome Mokoena and Mirero Makhado
The team also visited its partner institution, the University of Professional Studies, Accra(UPSA) as part of ongoing efforts to strengthen international academic collaborations.
The delegation was hosted by the hospitable UPSA’s Vice Chancellor, Prof John Kwaku Mensah Mawutor, who also serves as Matome Mokoena’s fellow under the DAAD DIES National Multiplication Training programme. During the courtesy meeting, the team engaged in productive discussions to advance the implementation of their signed Memorandum of Agreement, marking significant progress in fostering shared institutional goals. The University of Venda’s initiatives to increase its presence in West Africa through international student recruitment are a testament to its commitment to academic excellence, diversity, and global engagement. These efforts will undoubtedly pave the way for a brighter future for both the university and its students.
On the photo: Dr Takalani Dzaga engaging with prospective students
On the photo: Mirero Makhado and Matome Mokoena engaging with prospective students
Issued by:
Department of Marketing, Branding and Communication
University of Venda
Tel: 082 868 2218 / 082 868 1811
