VMF Condemns Personal Attacks On TUT Vice-Chancellor. The Vatsonga Machangani Forum (VMF) has come forward in strong defense of TUT Vice-Chancellor, Professor Tinyiko Maluleke, denouncing the recent personal attacks aimed at him. These attacks follow a complaint lodged at the Public Protector’s office, with accusations surrounding the development of a university in Sekhukhune.
The Forum describes these accusations as “baseless” and expresses concern about the rising tide of tribalism, misinformation, and divisive rhetoric that threatens to derail the progress of higher education in underserved regions like Giyani and Sekhukhune.
Accusations Spark Tribal Tensions
The controversy centers around a complaint filed by William Maphutha, who claims to represent an organization in Sekhukhune. Maphutha accuses the Tshwane University of Technology (TUT) of undermining a proposal to establish the University of Mining and Agriculture in the region, despite an existing memorandum of understanding (MOU) signed in 2021 between the Bapedi Royal Kingdom and TUT.
Maphutha alleges that through his company, Batsumi Pty Ltd, he pioneered the initiative, only to have TUT “hijack” it without due consultation. However, the Vatsonga Machangani Forum has categorically rejected these accusations, calling them an unfounded assault on the reputation of Professor Maluleke.
“The recent personal attacks on Professor Tinyiko Maluleke are not only unjust but are clearly motivated by an intent to tarnish his image and sow division,” the Forum stated.
The Truth Behind the Giyani Campus
The Forum emphasized that the movement for a university in Giyani predates any recent government announcements. Since 2004, educational advocates such as Dr. Ndhambi from the Khatsani Education Foundation have been lobbying for the establishment of a campus in Giyani, driven by the local community’s aspiration to improve economic conditions through higher education.
“This campaign for a Giyani campus is not political opportunism—it’s a decades-long, community-driven mission,” the VMF highlighted.
This rebuttal challenges the narrative that the Giyani project is a reaction to Sekhukhune’s proposal. Instead, it places Giyani’s campaign in a broader historical context, showing a long-standing commitment to educational advancement.
Comparative Timeline of University Proposals
| Year | Region | Activity |
|---|---|---|
| 2004 | Giyani | Initial advocacy for a local university begins through community leaders |
| 2021 | Sekhukhune | MOU signed between TUT and Bapedi Royal Kingdom |
| 2025 | Sekhukhune | Complaint filed with the Public Protector alleging project sabotage |
This timeline illustrates that Giyani’s push for higher education access was initiated well before any formal steps taken in Sekhukhune.
Forum Advocates for Collaboration, Not Conflict
The Vatsonga Machangani Forum has called for a collaborative national effort to expand access to tertiary education, arguing that pitting regions against each other only undermines development. South Africa continues to face a shortage of university spaces, leaving thousands of matriculants without viable options for higher learning.
“Both Giyani and Sekhukhune deserve institutions of higher learning. Our focus must be on nation-building, not territorial rivalry,” read the Forum’s statement.
The organization also stressed that Professor Maluleke is not solely responsible for the Giyani campus. Rather, it is the result of collective advocacy and planning, involving various stakeholders with a shared vision for educational empowerment.
Refuting Maphutha’s Dangerous Allegations
Maphutha’s personal attacks have gone beyond project disputes. He has referred to Professor Maluleke as a “thief” and “manipulator of truth”—terms the VMF describes as not only libelous but destructive to public discourse.
“These reckless claims threaten to damage the career of a man known for academic excellence and community service,” the Forum noted.
The Forum further revealed that TUT has already taken concrete steps to establish a Sekhukhune campus, including appointing a partner to conduct a market study as confirmed in a letter dated April 12, 2025. Branding concerns, such as the name “University of Mining and Agriculture,” should be resolved through formal channels, not public defamation.
Uniting for a Better Future
The VMF calls on the Limpopo provincial government and other national stakeholders to prioritize social cohesion over tribal and political rivalries. The forum argues that division only delays development and threatens to derail critical infrastructure meant to uplift poor communities.
“We must come together to ensure that both Giyani and Sekhukhune receive the investment they deserve in higher education,” the Forum urged.
Rather than escalating hostility, the organization urges stakeholders to work in good faith. This includes ensuring inclusive consultation, transparent planning, and above all, respect for institutional leaders.
Conclusion
The ongoing debate surrounding the TUT Vice-Chancellor and the proposed Sekhukhune university underscores the challenges facing higher education expansion in South Africa. As the country grapples with issues of limited university capacity and regional disparities, political posturing and tribal divisions must be set aside.
