OFMD Newsletter ISSUE126

NEWSLETTER | ISSUE 1:26

BEYOND FACILITIES

Give.

Serve.

Inspire.

World FM‌ FM Day

Enabling

People, Places and Purpose

Excellence

Connecting

CONTENTS CONTENTS

The Director’s Desk 01 From

05 Our Values

06

08 Celebrating Commitment

New Faces, One Team, Shared Purpose

and Excellence

Years of 10 37 Dedication

12 Transforming Spaces, Enhancing

Journeys.

14 Different Different Strengths.

More Than Gardens: 21 Growing Cultivating People,

Journey of 25 ALearning and

Growth 29 Celebrating Across Every Level

AET 31 From to a Degree

Corner: 33 Commercial Wits Rural, CPU, Pdh

Corner: 01 Commercial Wits Rural

Spotlight, 02 Retail Vida, Pink Me

Events: WorldFM Day 01 World Food Safety Day Asikulumeni, Asakheni, Men’s Health Conversations Check in for Men Nelson Mandela Day

You Called, 02 We Answered

You Spoke, listened, 01 We We are Improving

02 Intercampus Bus Service

Last Push: 01 The Put In The Work.

02 Vegetarian Korma (Recipe)

One Team, One Commitment

Growth

CPU, Pdh

Find The Balance

Experiences:

Innovation and Possibility

of Leadership

Up Salon

FROM THE

Director’s Desk Building an OFMD That Delivers. Our Road Towards Customer Delight As we reflect on the first half of 2026, one message stands out clearly: our work matters.

Every facility we maintain, every service we deliver, every risk we manage and every interaction we have with a stakeholder contributes to the environment in which the University of the Witwatersrand teaches, learns, conducts research and innovates. The past six months have therefore been about more than maintaining operations. They have been about strengthening the foundations of a more responsive, integrated, sustainable and customer-focused OFMD.

Turning Strategy into Action A significant milestone was our annual Strategic Planning Session at Wits Rural Campus, held under the theme “My Commitment Towards Customer Delight.”

"Behind every seamless campus experience are people working every day to keep our university safe, functional, welcoming, and operational."

OFMD Director, Israel Mogomotsi

The theme challenged us to move beyond thinking about customer service as a departmental responsibility and to recognise it as a personal commitment. Whether we work in Engineering Services, Environmental Services, Logistics and Operations, Commercial Services, Compliance, Administration or another area of OFMD, each of us influences the stakeholder experience.

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Strengthening the Way We Work “Digital enablement remains central to modernising the way we work. The implementation of Archibus as OFMD’s Integrated Workplace Management System is helping to streamline processes, improve operational visibility, strengthen data-driven decision-making and enhance overall efficiency.”

Resilience in a Complex Operating Environment Water interruptions, electricity outages, infrastructure pressures and other service disruptions continue to test our operational resilience. These challenges require our teams to respond quickly, coordinate across functions and communicate effectively with the University community, which has been a work in progress. They also remind us why proactive planning, preventative maintenance, risk management, business continuity and strong relationships with external service providers and authorities remain critical. Our responsibility is not only to respond effectively when something goes wrong, but increasingly to build systems that anticipate, mitigate and prevent future disruptions wherever possible.

Sustainability in Action Sustainability also continues to move from ambition into visible action as we explore and implement practical initiatives that contribute to a more environmentally responsible and resilient campus environment. We look forward to building on this momentum through the joint Sustainability Exhibition planned for October, which will provide a platform to showcase initiatives, share knowledge and strengthen collaboration around sustainability across the University community.

Our commitment continues to extend beyond our campus environments. Initiatives such as Mandela Day have demonstrated what can be achieved when our staff, partners and service providers come together around a shared purpose and contribute meaningfully to the communities around us.

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This was on full display at one of our selected centres, in Soweto, Nkanyezi Stimulation Centre on 17 July 2026. We also continued with our annual World Food Safety Day on 10 June 2026 under the theme “from burden to solutions, safe food everywhere.” The event brought together key role players and food safety specialists from across the sector, including representatives from the National Department of Health: Food Control, the Border Management Authority, the Gauteng Consumer Protection Directorate, and other industry experts.

For the first time, OFMD collaborated with the Wits Wellness Committee and Wits Communications to host a Men’s Health Conversation, creating a dedicated platform for meaningful dialogue around men’s health and well-being. The initiative brought colleagues together across campuses to engage openly on important health and wellness matters, and creating a workplace culture that supports the holistic well-being of our people.

"Our greatest impact is achieved when service extends beyond our campuses and into the communities around us."

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Investing in Our People None of our strategic objectives can be achieved without capable, committed and empowered people. Professional development, cross-training, succession planning and opportunities for employees to grow remain important in building OFMD’s future capability. The achievements of colleagues who have completed qualifications, progressed into new roles or developed new professional capabilities are worth celebrating.

The Next Six Months: Execution Matters As we enter the second half of 2026, our attention must remain firmly focused on delivery. Customer Delight must continue moving from a theme into an everyday way of working. Every employee has a role to play. It can be demonstrated through responding promptly to a request, taking ownership of a problem, identifying an improvement, managing resources responsibly, supporting a colleague, communicating proactively or simply asking: “What can I do differently today to improve your experience?”

"The future of OFMD will not be defined by our plans alone, but by the commitment, accountability and actions we choose every day."

Thank You, Team OFMD I would like to extend my sincere appreciation to every OFMD employee, manager, service provider and stakeholder who continues to contribute to the work of the department. Much of facilities management happens behind the scenes, and its true value is often most visible when our campuses function seamlessly. Behind that experience are people working every day to keep our University safe, functional, welcoming and operational. As we move into the next six months, let us build on the progress we have made with renewed energy, accountability and collaboration.

Our strategy gives us direction. Our systems create consistency. Our people make delivery possible.

And ultimately, our collective commitment will determine the experience we create for the Wits community. Let us continue moving from commitment to action, and from action to impact.

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THRIC!

OUR VALUES

RESPECT HONESTY

INTEGRITY R H

TRUST

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T

I

C

COLLABORATION

PROJECT UPDATE

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Staff

PROFILING

New Faces, One Team, Shared Purpose Thembela Johane Mkhaliphi joined us on 01 July 2026 as a Grounds and Landscaping Architect. Thembela brings a wealth of expertise, with over 15 years of experience in landscape architecture, grounds management and leading multidisciplinary teams on large-scale landscape projects.

Thembela Mkhaliphi

Driven by a passion for creating safe, sustainable and welcoming outdoor environments, Thembela is committed to delivering quality work through reliability, responsiveness and continuous improvement.

Outside of shaping campus spaces, he enjoys solving complex design challenges, staying active at the gym, catching up on films, exploring personal growth and investing, and spending time outdoors in nature.

Mbambeleli Masala joined us on 01 February 2026 as Utilities Manager under Engineering Services. Mbambeleli is a Professional Electrical Engineer and Certified Energy Manager with 18 years of experience in the engineering field, including seven years at Sasol Secunda as a Technician, Senior Technician, and Engineer, followed by 11 years as a Project Manager at the University of Johannesburg.

Mbambeleli Masala

Motivated by the opportunity to work with diverse engineering infrastructure and make a positive impact, Mbambeleli is focused on bringing innovation, driving departmental improvements and exceeding service expectations. Outside of engineering operations, he is an approachable team player who enjoys travelling to new places, spending quality time with family, and following combat sports such as boxing and mixed martial arts.

Rosel Meyer joined us on 01 May 2026 as a Senior System Administrator. Rosel brings a wealth of technology experience to the department, having started her career as a junior mainframe developer and steadily progressed through the technical ranks while always prioritising human connection and strong workplace relationships.

Rosel Meyer

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Drawn to an academic institution by the belief that education makes a true difference, Rosel is committed to delighting clients, providing impactful support, and helping make the world a better place through excellent service. Outside of systems administration and solving complex technical challenges with unstoppable determination, she is an avid gardener and nature lover who enjoys hiking, travelling, and spending time with her family, friends, and pets.

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Staff

PROFILING

New Faces, One Team, Shared Purpose Palesa Mofokeng joined us on 01 July 2026 as a General Machinery Compliance Coordinator. Palesa brings a strong technical background from the mining and manufacturing sectors, where she worked as a Maintenance Planner focused on equipment reliability, maintenance planning, and operational efficiency. In her new role, she will oversee campus machinery compliance, manage operational risks, and ensure all equipment meets legal and technical safety standards.

Palesa Mofokeng

Inspired to join the University by her passion for safety and compliance, Palesa is excited to contribute her experience, support continuous improvement and deliver quality outcomes through reliable service.

Living by the motto "kopano ke matla" (Unity is strength), she thrives on teamwork and open communication. Outside of work, Palesa enjoys cooking delicious meals in the kitchen, singing, mentoring young people through her church, and spending quality time with her family.

Sandile Vilakazi joined us on 01 July 2026 as Operations Manager for Dining Halls Catering. Sandile brings over 16 years of broad hospitality experience, having developed his expertise in hotel management before transitioning into multi-site operations and large-scale contract catering.

Sandile Vilakazi

Attracted to the University by the opportunity to combine strategic leadership with enhancing the student experience, Sandile defines service excellence as consistently creating exceptional experiences through professionalism, empathy and attention to detail. Guided by the motto "What you resist, persists”. He is dedicated to developing teams and building relationships across the University. Outside of the dining halls, Sandile is passionate about mentoring young boys in his hometown and spending time in the studio producing music alongside his father.

“Every new OFMD team member brings fresh energy and new perspectives as we grow towards our vision of being a trusted operations and facilities management partner.”

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Celebrating Staff PROFILING

Commitment and Excellence 29 Years of Dedication

Honouring Mmadihaelle Pauline Ntho’s 29 Years of Dedicated Service For nearly three decades, Mmadihaelle Pauline Ntho has been a cornerstone of the Operations and Facilities Management Department at the University of the Witwatersrand. With 29 years of service, her dedication has helped keep Wits’ operational environments clean, safe and welcoming for students, staff, and visitors alike.

A Journey Built on Ownership and Pride Mmadihaelle joined Wits in 1997, starting her career at Wits Governance School before bringing her expertise to the Operations and Facilities Management Department as a dedicated cleaner. Throughout her tenure, her work ethic has been defined by proactive initiative and deep personal accountability.

"I’m not the kind of person who likes to be told or reminded to do my work. I just do my work and make sure that I do it to the best of my ability." - Mmadihaelle For her, personal drive goes hand in hand with teamwork and collective success. Whether performing deep cleaning or stepping in to cover for absent colleagues, she collaborates with her team to maintain high cleaning standards across campus. Over the years, this commitment has fostered strong, lasting bonds with both peers and supervisors.

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Earned Recognition and Words of Wisdom Being named Employee of the Month by Wits Business School earlier this year stands as a proud milestone in Mmadihaelle’s long-standing career, a well-deserved testament to decades of hard work.

Impact Beyond the Campus Mmadihaelle’s contributions extend far beyond the daily responsibilities. Her decades of service have provided a solid foundation for her family, enabling her to support her children’s education and celebrate significant personal milestones, including watching one of her children successfully launch a business.

Setting the Standard Through Daily Excellence Maintaining high safety and operational standards is a shared responsibility that requires consistency, teamwork and attention to detail. Humbulani Nemalale, Cleaning Supervisor, highlights these qualities as essential to effective facilities maintenance and qualities that Mmadihaelle consistently demonstrates in her work.

Thank You, Mmadihaelle Mmadihaelle’s 29-year journey at Wits is a powerful story of perseverance, integrity, and shared purpose. We extend our heartfelt gratitude for her invaluable contribution to our university community.

Congratulations, Mmadihaelle, and thank you for nearly three decades of unwavering commitment!

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Staff

PROFILING

37 Years of Dedication

Sanie Mlimi’s Journey of Service at Wits Rural Campus

For 37 years, Sanie Mlimi has been a dedicated member of the Wits Rural Campus team, building a legacy rooted in hard work, perseverance, service and a commitment to others.

At 63 years old, Sanie reflects with pride on a journey that began in 1989. Her Wits Rural Campus story started with helping in the kitchen, eventually leading her to her current role as a cleaner. Over the years, she has played an important role in ensuring that the spaces used by visitors, guests, postgraduate students, teams and conference delegates are clean, welcoming and ready for use.

For Sanie, doing her job well has always been about more than simply completing a task.

“I work hard because I want my work to show.”

Her dedication was formally recognised in 2014 when she celebrated 25 years of service at Wits Rural Campus. She describes the occasion as a true honour and a meaningful reminder of the journey she had travelled.

A mother of four, three boys and one girl, Sanie also takes pride in having raised her children and supported them through their education. Today, her children have pursued careers of their own, including in the mining and engineering industries.

Throughout her 37 years of service, Sanie has remained committed to the values she believes make a good employee: perseverance, loyalty, responsibility and a willingness to keep going even when circumstances become difficult.

Her message to colleagues is simple:

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“When you work, you must persevere and not give up.

Don’t complain, don’t lose hope, keep going and always do your job.”

For Sanie, service is also about people.

Working at Wits Rural Campus means interacting with visitors and ensuring that they receive the care and assistance they need. Whether preparing accommodation, meeting rooms, offices or conference spaces, she believes every visitor deserves to be treated with respect and provided with good service.

Her journey has also given her an opportunity to encourage others. Sanie says she has always tried to motivate colleagues who may have felt discouraged or considered giving up. She also speaks passionately about the strength of women and the importance of supporting one another.

Her advice extends beyond the workplace.

Sanie encourages people to treat others well, even when they may not share the same views or approach to life. For her, working well with others requires patience, respect and understanding.

After 37 years, Sanie Mlimi’s story is more than a celebration of longevity. It is the story of a woman who has remained committed to her work, her family, her colleagues and the people she serves.

Her journey reminds us that meaningful contributions are not always measured by titles. Sometimes, they are reflected in the consistency of showing up, doing your best, supporting others and refusing to give up.

Sanie’s 37 years at Wits Rural Campus stand as a powerful example of dedication, resilience and service, a legacy that continues to inspire those around her.

“As women, we need to help each other and be able to stand on our own.”

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Transforming Spaces, Enhancing Experiences: A Fresh Look for Wits Education Campus

There is a fresh energy at the Wits Education Campus. Through a series of targeted infrastructure improvement projects, our infrastructure maintenance team, led by the Campus Facilities Manager: Dumisani Ngiba is enhancing the appearance, functionality and long-term usability of key campus spaces.

In addition to other projects, three projects have recently been successfully completed: road marking across the Wits Education Campus, refurbishment and painting of the Hockey Field Grandstand, and road paving along St Patrick Avenue and Victoria Road. These interventions are creating a safer, more welcoming and better-connected campus environment for students, staff and visitors.

Three Projects, One Goal: A Better Campus Experience to Delight Our Customers With high volumes of traffic moving through the Wits Education Campus, clearly marked and wellmaintained roads are critical. The road-marking project, completed between 13 and 29 May 2026, has improved road visibility, navigation and the overall appeal of the campus.

The Hockey Field Grandstand received a much-needed refresh in May 2026 as part of the first phase, with the aim of transforming the facility into a more attractive and welcoming sporting environment.

The road paving project resolved priority potholes and accessibility challenges along St. Patrick Avenue and Victoria Road. Instead of relying on conventional tar repairs, the team opted for durable paving that provides a more sustainable and long-term solution. The improvement has also enabled greater utilisation of a parking area that was previously underused due to the condition of the road.

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PROJECT UPDATE

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Delivering The projects were delivered within tight timelines while navigating the demands of a busy and active Against campus environment.

Successful implementation was possible due to strong collaboration across key the ClockProtection Services assisting with traffic flow during the road-related works stakeholders, such as Campus and the Sports Department supporting the Hockey Field improvements. This coordinated approach enabled the work to progress efficiently while minimising disruption to normal campus activities.

Weather presented an additional challenge, with rain delaying aspects of the paving works by approximately three days. Despite these challenges, the road-marking and grandstand projects were delivered on schedule, with a strong focus on quality workmanship.

The results are already being noticed. Positive feedback has been received from clients, with the improvements contributing to the aesthetic appeal, functionality and overall image of the campus.

Building for the Future The transformation does not end here.

The Hockey Field improvements represent the first phase, with a second phase planned. Further road paving is also expected as part of the next phase of campus improvements subject to resource availability.

Beyond the Wits Education Campus, the infrastructure improvement programme continues. Upcoming projects include vinyl flooring upgrades on the fourth and fifth floors of the Medical School, as well as a the refurbishment of bathrooms on the fourth floor of the Medical School at Charlotte Maxeke, scheduled from 20 July to 30 September 2026.

More Than Infrastructure These projects demonstrate how thoughtful infrastructure investment can improve the everyday campus experience while protecting the University’s assets for the future.

Well done to our passionate and dedicated Infrastructure Maintenance team on another successful delivery! May this momentum continue across all areas as we enhance our facilities, transform our spaces and contribute to an environment that our students, staff and visitors are proud of.

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Different Journeys.

Different Strengths.One Team, One Commitment.

Meet the People Behind PDH Cleaning Excellence

B

ehind every welcoming, clean and wellmaintained space at the Professional Development Hub is a team of dedicated people who understand that exceptional service is not achieved by one person, it is achieved together. The PDH cleaning team brings together individuals with many years of collective experience. Some members have worked in the environment since as early as 2008, while others joined over the years and becoming part of the University of the Witwatersrand following insourcing in 2017. Today, their different journeys have brought them together as one team with a shared purpose, to provide an environment that staff, students, visitors and clients can enjoy and appreciate.

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More Than Co-workers, A Team That Shows Up for Each Other What makes this team special is not simply how they perform their individual responsibilities, but how they support one another.

When a colleague is unavailable, others step in. When workloads increase, responsibilities are rearranged collectively.

When clients enquire about venues or need assistance, team members do not simply say, “that is not my responsibility.’ They assist wherever they can.

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Respect Makes the Difference Ask the team what makes them unique and several words consistently come up: respect, understanding, communication, tolerance and teamwork. That does not mean they always agree. Whether tackling deep-cleaning activities or managing demanding workloads, differences sometimes arise. What sets the team apart is their ability to address issues, correct mistakes, follow up and move forward together.

They have created an environment where mistakes can be raised without fear of reprimand and where feedback becomes an opportunity to improve. They may not always agree, but they remain united by the work that needs to be done.

The People Behind the Service The team comprises Ungasebeko Polina Raimaisa, Elizabeth Ntlwana, Jacob Mabaso, Mildred Molapo, Gadifele Maledi, Eunice Thwala, Simphiwe Ximba, Lebogang Mogola, Julia Molefinyane and Team Leader Samuel Shirindza, under the supervision of Anthonia Sibiya and led by Operations Administrative Assistant Irene Zondi.

What Keeps Them Motivated?

For some, it is simply a love and passion for their work. For others, it is receiving positive feedback from clients and seeing that their efforts are recognised. But across the team, there is a common thread: trust, respect and knowing that the person next to you will support you when needed.

"Behind every exceptional service experience is a team united by respect, integrity and a shared commitment to excellence."

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Stronger Together: The Power of Teamwork

For the PDH cleaning team, teamwork is about supporting one another, communicating openly and taking pride in delivering quality service. With nine general workers, a Team Leader and a Supervisor, every team member has a clearly defined role and cleaning schedule while remaining willing to step in and assist when needed.

Whether responding to events, deep cleaning, floods or staff shortages, the team works together to ensure that all areas are covered and deadlines are met. Their ability to work independently while supporting one another enables them to maintain a high standard of service across the University.

Teamwork is strengthened through daily communication. Team Leader Samuel Shirindza holds short morning meetings to discuss the day’s goals and special client requests, while a WhatsApp group keeps everyone connected throughout the day. Regular toolbox talks also help the team stay informed about safety and work expectations.

“For me, strong teamwork starts with clear goals, trust, open communication and respect.

Everyone should understand their role, feel heard and be treated equally, while good work is recognised and challenges are addressed constructively,” reflected Irene Zondi.

At the heart of the team’s success is a simple principle: when people support one another, communicate and work towards the same goal, even a small team can make a big impact.

“A strong team is built on communication, trust, and respect. but it grows when everyone is willing to step up and help one another.”

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Integrity When Nobody Is Watching Service excellence is also about character.

One moment that stands out for the team involved a wallet that was found and returned to its owner, resulting in appreciation from the client. It may seem like a simple act, but it reflects something much bigger: integrity, accountability and doing the right thing even when no one is watching.

Positive feedback and recognition from clients continue to motivate the team and reinforce the value of the work they do every day.

Celebrating Together, Supporting Each Other Teamwork also extends beyond daily operations. Through year-end gatherings, they celebrate achievements and support one another.

Their request for recognition is refreshingly simple: something as small as a PDH-branded T-shirt would help strengthen a sense of identity and pride in the place they serve.

More importantly, they value feedback from management and knowing that their contribution is seen and appreciated.

Their Message to OFMD Perhaps the most powerful lesson from the PDH team is their understanding of what teamwork really means.

“Teamwork is not about being friends. It is about respecting and understanding each other, giving each other space when needed, and recognising that we can only succeed when we work together.”

It is a message worth carrying across OFMD.

To the PDH team: thank you for demonstrating that Customer Delight starts with the people behind the service. Your respect for one another, commitment to your work and willingness to step in when needed show teamwork in action.

Continue supporting one another, taking pride in every contribution and demonstrating what is possible when we work, grow and succeed as one united team.

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Growing More Than Gardens: Cultivating People, Innovation and Possibility For many, landscaping is about maintaining lawns, trees and gardens. But behind the green spaces that shape the character of the University of the Witwatersrand lies a much broader responsibility, one that brings together people, planning, creativity, sustainability and the challenge of keeping seven campuses looking their best. Landscaping team’s responsibilities extend far beyond cutting grass and maintaining flowerbeds. The team looks after the University's soft landscaping environment, ensuring that gardens and focal areas are maintained, litter is controlled, trees are cared for and outdoor campus spaces remain attractive and welcoming. In many ways, the team is responsible for one of the University's most visible assets: its first impression.

At the centre of this work is Chris Ziyambi, the Grounds and Waste Operations Manager whose role includes serving as the custodian of soft landscaping across the University's seven campuses and leading a team of 148 employees.

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Having been part of the University environment for approximately seven years, Chris Ziyambi brings a background in campus planning and facilities management to the role. Before joining Wits, she worked as a Campus Planner at one of the higher education institutions in Pretoria, with a focus on future-proofing campuses through thoughtful planning and design. Today, that forward-looking mindset remains central to the work, although, as anyone working with the natural environment knows, nature does not always cooperate with the plan.

No two days are quite the same.

Challenges can range from operational and people-management matters to strategic planning and weather-related disruptions.

Annual landscaping plans can quickly change following prolonged rainfall, for example, requiring teams to regroup, reprioritise areas and work collaboratively to recover lost ground. It is precisely this unpredictability that Chris enjoys. Rather than viewing these complexities purely as obstacles, she sees them as opportunities for creativity, agility and problem-solving.

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Innovation is another major source of motivation. One of the most memorable moments for her was seeing the University's solar benches come to life, watching an idea move from concept to a visible sustainability initiative that could be experienced and enjoyed by the University community.

Planting Seeds for People's Growth

While Chris Ziyambi is responsible for developing and maintaining physical landscapes, there is another form of development that is equally important: growing people. The commitment to employee development is deeply personal and was shaped by the journey of Chris Ziyambi’s father who began his career as a trolley attendant at a wholesaler. Through education, determination and continuous development, he progressed to become a manager responsible for advising on the profitability of stores across different towns.

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That journey demonstrated first-hand what can happen when people are given opportunities to learn and progress. It also shaped a leadership philosophy that challenges the idea that organisations should simply search for the “perfect” candidate with the perfect combination of skills.

When managers invest deliberately in their employees, they are not simply paying for training courses. They are building institutional knowledge, confidence, loyalty, capability and a workforce that can adapt as the organisation's needs evolve. “The skills difference isn't always a talent problem, sometimes it is a training problem. The investment a manager makes in developing people can come back through loyal, capable and highly effective team members,” she reflects.

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Chris ensures that employee development follows a highly structured approach. Team members are normally brought together and asked what they want to achieve professionally, where they want their careers to go and what qualifications they hope to obtain. Development pathways are then mapped out. This approach is further strengthened by proactively identifying skills gaps, promoting cross-training across the three units, and advocating for increased investment in training and development to support employees in obtaining accredited training and formal qualifications.

Over time, the approach has evolved to become more personalised and employeefocused, with development conversations beginning from the moment a new team member joins the unit. This creates an early opportunity to understand each employee’s career aspirations, identify areas for growth, and establish a development pathway that supports both individual progression and the unit’s future capability needs.

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During onboarding, Chris asks employees an important question:

new

“Where do you want to go after this? What are you currently doing to get there, and how can I support you?” From that conversation, the employee and manager begin developing a pathway together. Development is not limited to formal qualifications. Employees are also given opportunities to participate in projects beyond their routine responsibilities, cross-train, act in different capacities and gain exposure to areas such as administration and people management.

This allows them to demonstrate their potential while gaining the practical experience needed for future roles. When suitable opportunities arise, employees who have been developing towards those roles can then be encouraged to put themselves forward.

The impact of this approach was not immediately visible. The turning point came when employees began seeing their colleagues complete qualifications, gain experience and progress into new opportunities. Seeing others advance has created something that policies and training calendars alone cannot achieve, renewed enthusiasm for learning, studying and career development across the team.

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For Chris, professionalisation and personal growth are therefore not operational luxuries.

They are part of building the long-term capability of the unit. Supporting development while managing a large operational workforce inevitably creates challenges. When employees attend training, their absence can create temporary pressure on colleagues and operations. However, she deliberately retains responsibility for approving training and development rather than delegating it. The reason is simple: professional growth should not continually be sacrificed because of today's operational pressures.

Operational demands will always exist. If development is postponed every time operations become busy, there will rarely be a convenient time to invest in people. A workforce that is continuously learning becomes more adaptable and resilient. It creates stronger succession pipelines, reduces dependence on a small number of individuals and gives the organisation employees who are better prepared to respond to emerging challenges.

Over the next two years, she intends to strengthen this approach through two key priorities.

Ultimately, her leadership approach demonstrates that facilities management is as much about developing people as it is about managing places.

The first is to expand technical development in areas such as horticulture, irrigation management, sustainability, health and safety, contractor management and asset management within her unit. The second is creating more focused mentoring and development opportunities for identified highpotential employees, preparing them for succession into key operational roles. The objective is not simply to train people for the jobs they perform today. It is to develop employees who can adapt, lead and contribute to the University's needs in the future.

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And perhaps that is fitting for someone whose work revolves around landscaping.

After all, growth rarely happens by accident.

Whether it is a garden, an idea or a person's career, the right environment, investment, patience and care can determine how far it grows.

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A Journey of Learning and Growth: Celebrating Mbali Khumalo’s Achievement Behind every qualification is a story of sacrifice, perseverance and a decision to keep moving forward.

For Mbali Khumalo, Operations Officer within Grounds and Waste in the Operations and Facilities Management Department, completing her Bachelor of Laws (LLB) is more than an academic achievement. It is a reflection of five years of balancing work, family responsibilities and studies while continuing to pursue opportunities for professional growth. Her journey also shows the impact that supportive leadership and a workplace committed to developing its people can have on an employee’s career.

Mbali’s relationship with the University of the Witwatersrand began even before she became an employee. She completed her first qualification, a Bachelor of Arts in International Relations and Political Studies, at the University. In 2020, she joined the Wits Developmental Pathways for Health Research Unit (DPHRU). In 2024, she was appointed as a General Worker within the Grounds and Waste team within the Operations and Facilities Management Department. Under the leadership of Chris Ziyambi, who places a strong emphasis on professional development, succession planning and creating opportunities for employees to demonstrate their capabilities, Mbali was identified as having the potential to take on greater responsibility.

In March 2025, she was asked to act as an Operations Officer. Just a few months later, in July 2025, that development opportunity translated into career progression when she applied for and was formally appointed to the role. Moving into a new role required adjustment, discipline and commitment. For Mbali, knowing why she wanted to progress helped her to navigate the transition and remain focused on her goals.

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Five Years, One Goal: Keep Going At the same time that her career was progressing, Mbali was pursuing another major goal. She enrolled for her Bachelor of Laws (LLB) in 2020 and completed the qualification in 2025. Although personal circumstances meant that she was unable to complete the degree within the anticipated timeframe, she remained determined to finish what she had started. Balancing studies with a full-time job and family responsibilities was one of the greatest challenges of the journey. Strict time management became essential. Deadlines at work did not disappear because an assignment was due, and academic commitments did not stop because life became busy. It required perseverance, discipline and a sustained determination to achieve her goal.

“My journey has taught me that growth requires courage, consistency and the willingness to keep moving forward, even when the road is challenging.”

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For Mbali, completing an LLB has not only resulted in another qualification. It has changed how she approaches life and work. Her studies have increased her understanding of the professional environment and enhanced her ability to remain solution-driven and contribute meaningfully. Her academic background in International Relations and Political Studies helps her analyse broader developments and understand the environments in which organisations operate. Her legal studies have added another valuable dimension to her work within OFMD. She is now able to apply her understanding of legal principles when engaging with matters involving contracts, occupational health and safety and labour relations. This knowledge supports a more informed approach to contract management, building constructive partnerships with service providers and ensuring that parties understand and remain accountable for their respective responsibilities. It shows an important principle of professional development: learning becomes even more valuable when employees are given opportunities to apply it.

Mbali credits much of the encouragement that sustained her journey to her family, close friends and line manager. Within the Grounds and Waste environment, her progression also demonstrates the value of Chris Ziyambi’s approach to employee development, identifying potential, creating opportunities for employees to gain practical experience and supporting them as they prepare for greater responsibility. Rather than viewing development solely through formal training programmes, the approach includes giving employees opportunities to act in different roles, participate beyond their routine responsibilities and build the practical experience required for future positions.

Mbali’s journey from General Worker to Operations Officer is one example of what can happen when individual determination meets an environment that recognises and develops potential. Her academic achievement further strengthens the value of creating a workplace culture where professional development is viewed as an investment in both the employee and the future capability of the department.

"Professional development is more than earning a qualification, it's about growing the confidence and capability to make a greater impact."

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Completing her qualification is not the end of Mbali’s learning journey. Through her work, she has developed a particular interest in contract management, an area she sees as a potential future specialisation. Her next academic ambition is to pursue further studies in Supply Chain Management, with particular interest in its contract and project management components. Most importantly, Mbali believes there is still significant opportunity for her to grow and contribute within the department and the University.

Her ambition reflects the same philosophy that carried her through five demanding years of study: there should always be room for growth. “Learning does not stop” Mbali’s message to colleagues is simple but increasingly important in a rapidly changing world: “Learning does not stop. The world is constantly changing, and we need to continuously develop ourselves so that we can adapt, contribute more effectively and add value to society and the country at large.” She also expresses gratitude to the University for the role it has played throughout her journey.

BEYOND FACILITIES EDITION

Her first University of the Witwatersrand qualification opened doors to employment opportunities, while the support she received within the department enabled her to continue pursuing her academic ambitions alongside her professional responsibilities.

For Mbali, faith has also remained an important source of strength and perspective throughout the journey. She draws inspiration from Jeremiah 29:11, which speaks of God’s plans for prosperity and not harm, and of giving hope and a future. She is equally guided by Colossians 3:17, which encourages doing everything, in word or deed, in the name of the Lord Jesus while giving thanks to God. Today, Mbali’s story is about perseverance, opportunity, supportive leadership and the power of continuous learning. From joining Grounds and Waste as a General Worker, to being trusted with an acting opportunity, formally progressing to Operations Officer and completing her second degree, each step has helped prepare her for the next. And if her journey so far is anything to go by, this achievement is not the destination. It is the foundation for what comes next.

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“Continuous development empowers us to strengthen our skills, broaden our perspectives and contribute with greater impact.”

Celebrating Growth Across Every Level of Leadership Academic achievement becomes interestingly powerful when leaders and their team members jointly commit to learning alongside each other. This is an inspiring story of Sipho Mthimkhulu: Campus Facilities Manager, and Sandile Ngubane: Operations Administrator in Infrastructure Maintenance at Braamfontein Campus East, who jointly completed the Management Development Programme at Wits Business School. Although the two have different levels of experience and professional responsibilities, they entered the programme with a shared goal, to develop their leadership skills, strengthen their contribution to the department and the University, and prepare for future opportunities. After five years of employment at the University of the Witwatersrand, Sandile participated in the programme to improve his management, leadership, and decision-making abilities. For Sipho, who has been with the University for over three years, the programme provided an opportunity to assess his ability to balance the demands of his role, personal responsibilities and academic development. Its duration and relevance to his current responsibilities made it an ideal starting point for further professional growth.

Sandile gained valuable skills in communication, leadership, strategic thinking, project management, problem-solving and decision-making. He plans to apply these skills by improving planning, communication and stakeholder engagement, while contributing to efficient operations and continuous improvement within OFMD. “The programme provided practical tools that I can apply in my daily work. I am now better equipped to contribute with purpose, solve complex problems and support the Department’s operational objectives,” he reflected.

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Sipho’s experience was shaped by working within a syndicate group which helped him gain understanding of group dynamics, collaboration and the importance of bringing together different strengths to achieve a common goal. He also strengthened his ability to analyse the organisational environment through tools such as PESTEL and SWOT analyses. These insights have encouraged him to plan longer, three-year cycles, anticipate challenges and respond more proactively to changes in the organisational environment. Another important area of learning was leadership adaptability. “I gained a better understanding of my personal leadership style and how it influences organisational culture. I also learned that different situations may require different leadership approaches,” Sipho explained.

Completing the programme required balancing studies with demanding work and personal responsibilities. Sandile managed these demands through meticulous planning, sound time management, consistent dedication and focus on his ultimate goals. He credits his manager, family and colleagues for the encouragement and support that helped him remain committed and focused. For Sipho, the timing of the programme presented a particular challenge, as it coincided with a demanding period in the University’s financial and academic calendar. This was also a time when many maintenance projects were being implemented as campus spaces became available. Despite these pressures, he remained committed and drew strength from the support of his colleagues, family and syndicate group.

Sandile’s acknowledgement of his manager’s encouragement indicates the critical role that leaders play in supporting employee development. At the same time, Sipho’s commitment to his own development demonstrates that leadership is not only about encouraging others to learn, but also about leading by example. Their shared experience has the opportunity to create stronger alignment between management and employees, while also promoting a culture in which learning, reflection and improvement become part of everyday work.

Sandile

Sipho

They both encourage colleagues to take advantage of the development opportunities available within the University. “Continuous learning is an investment in yourself and your future,” Sandile said. “The knowledge and skills gained enhance personal growth, enable us to make a greater impact in our roles and contribute to the University’s success.” Sipho echoed this message, emphasising that continuous learning is essential in an ever-changing world. “Learning, unlearning and relearning help us become dynamic individuals who can continue to contribute positively and remain relevant,” he said.

The achievement of Sandile Ngubane and Sipho Mthimkhulu demonstrates the power of shared learning. Their journey reflects a strong commitment to personal growth, collaborative leadership and service excellence.

“Continuous learning transforms experience into insight, challenges into opportunities and individuals into stronger leaders.”

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From

AET to a

Degree: Kedibone Kgope’s journey reminds us that professional development does not have a deadline!

23 years of

service.

A journey of learning.

One remarkable achievement.

For Kedibone Kgope, Operations Administrator in the Executive Kitchen within Commercial Services, education has been about more than earning a qualification. It has been a journey of courage, sacrifice, perseverance and believing that there is always an opportunity to grow. With 23 years of dedicated service and experience at the University of the Witwatersrand, Kedibone has achieved an exciting personal and professional milestone by successfully completing her Bachelor of Business Administration through MANCOSA.

It Started with One Decision When Kedibone joined Wits, she had a matric certificate and the determination to build a better future for herself. She recognised that education could open new possibilities and decided to take the first step. In 2017, she enrolled in the Adult Education and Training (AET) programme.

What may have seemed like one small step at the time became the foundation for something much bigger. “The AET programme gave me the confidence and foundation to continue studying,” she reflects. Kedibone completed the programme in 2019, strengthening not only her academic skills but also her belief in what she could achieve.

Then came another source of inspiration.

She was inspired by the story of Mr Simon Teffo, a former employee within the department who successfully completed his studies later in his career. His achievement instilled a powerful message for Kedibone: there is no age limit to investing in yourself. In July 2023, she took another bold step and enrolled for a Bachelor of Business Administration at MANCOSA.

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Weekends Became Study Days Reaching this milestone required considerable sacrifice. Balancing a full-time job, studies and family responsibilities meant that free time often became study time.

Weekends were spent working through assignments and preparing for examinations, while social activities sometimes had to take a back seat.

There were difficult moments. “At times, I felt overwhelmed and even considered giving up,” Kedibone recalls. But she kept going.

Through discipline, determination and careful time management, she continued moving forward, one assignment and one examination at a time.

Looking back, her perspective is simple: “Every sacrifice was worth it.”

Growth Beyond the Qualification For Kedibone, achieving her degree has already changed much more than the letters she can place after her name. The journey has improved her confidence, communication and problem-solving abilities and changed how she approaches challenges in her role.

She feels better equipped to contribute to her team, take on additional responsibilities and continue with her professional development.

Following graduation, Kedibone hopes to pursue an Honours qualification and find further opportunities to apply the knowledge and skills she has gained in service of OFMD and the University.

Behind Every Achievement Is a Support System

Kedibone is also quick to acknowledge the people who helped her keep going.

Her daughter, friends, manager and colleagues provided encouragement throughout the journey. She particularly remembers the support of her late colleague, Olga, whose belief in her remains a meaningful part of her story.

“Their belief in me gave me the strength to stay committed and complete my degree,” she says. Alongside that support was another important ingredient: learning to believe in herself.

Her Message: Keep Going!

Kedibone hopes her achievement will encourage colleagues who may be wondering whether it is too late to return to the classroom.

Her message is powerful: “It is never too late to learn or improve your qualifications. It does not matter how old you are, never stop believing in yourself. Every small step you take brings you closer to achieving your goals.” She also encourages colleagues not to allow their current circumstances to determine how far they can go. “Stay committed, work hard and never give up, even when the journey becomes difficult. Keep learning, keep believing in yourself and never stop chasing your goals.”

Kedibone has also expressed her appreciation to the University and OFMD for creating opportunities that encourage staff development and hopes that continued investment in employee learning will enable many more colleagues to pursue their own development journeys.

Congratulations, Kedibone! From beginning your AET journey in 2017 to completing a Bachelor of Business Administration, your story is a powerful reminder of what commitment, perseverance and a willingness to keep learning can achieve.

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Wits

Rural

Beyond the City: Discover the Wits Rural Campus Experience

Where learning, research, and collaboration meet nature.

Imagine taking your next strategic planning session away from the pace and distractions of Johannesburg and into the tranquillity of the Lowveld, where teams have the space to think differently, researchers are closer to the environments they study, and learning extends far beyond the traditional classroom. Welcome to Wits Rural Campus, a distinctive university destination that brings together accommodation, conferencing, catering, research, teaching and memorable group experiences in one remarkable setting.

Located in the Lowveld region of Limpopo Province, within reach of the world-renowned Kruger region and important research and conservation areas, WRC offers something increasingly valuable: the space to focus, connect, collaborate and create.

More Than a Venue Wits Rural Campus is much more than a place to stay. It is a fully serviced environment designed to support the diverse needs of the University community and external clients. From strategic planning retreats and conferences to postgraduate writing retreats, field schools, workshops, research projects and team-building programmes, the campus provides the infrastructure and operational support needed to turn an ordinary gathering into a purposeful experience.

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Guests have access to comfortable accommodation, modern conference and meeting facilities, professional catering, secure parking and dedicated operational support, all within the peaceful surroundings of the Lowveld. With accommodation, catering, conferencing and logistics available from one location, organisers can spend less time coordinating multiple service providers and more time focusing on the purpose of their programme.

Why Wits Rural Campus?

What sets WRC apart is not one individual offering, but the experience created when place, purpose and service come together. Its location provides a refreshing alternative to conventional city-based venues.

Away from everyday workplace interruptions, teams have an opportunity to engage more deeply, strengthen relationships and focus on strategic priorities. For academics and researchers, the campus provides an environment purposefully connected to teaching, research and fieldwork. For professional and project teams, it offers a setting conducive to planning, problem-solving and collaboration. For external clients, it provides access to professional University facilities complemented by personalised hospitality.

With the Kruger region and surrounding conservation areas nearby, programmes can also be enriched through guided excursions and team-building experiences, adding further value to the overall visit.

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One Destination.

Multiple Possibilities

Planning a strategy session? WRC provides the space to step away from day-to-day operations and focus on the bigger picture.

Organising a conference or workshop? Combine professional meeting facilities with accommodation and catering in one location.

Leading a research project or field school? Use the campus as a base for academic activity within a unique rural and conservation environment.

Need uninterrupted time to write, think or collaborate? A postgraduate or research writing retreat can replace the distractions of the city with an environment designed for focus.

Looking to reconnect your team? Combine structured sessions with outdoor experiences and the tranquillity of the Lowveld.

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Whatever the purpose, the experience can be tailored around the needs of the group.

Exceptional Value, Backed by Wits One of WRC's strongest advantages is the combination of value and convenience. Preferential rates are available to University of the Witwatersrand departments, schools and research units, while tailored accommodation and conference packages can be developed for larger groups and multi-day programmes. This makes WRC an attractive option for University teams seeking to maximise value while accessing professional facilities and hospitality services within the broader Wits environment. The Operations Team works closely with organisers from the initial enquiry through to departure, tailoring arrangements to suit group size, programme requirements, accommodation, conferencing and catering needs.

Built for Academic Purpose. Open to Possibility.

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Perhaps the greatest value of Wits Rural Campus is that it understands the environment it serves. It is not simply a commercial conference venue adapted for academic use. Its offering supports the University's broader ecosystem of teaching, research, postgraduate development, stakeholder engagement and institutional collaboration. At the same time, its appeal extends beyond Wits.

Government departments, NGOs, academic partners, research groups and external organisations looking for a professional retreat, conference or collaborative environment can also experience what the campus has to offer. This combination creates a distinctive value proposition: the professionalism of a conference destination, the functionality of an academic environment, and the tranquillity of a rural retreat, all in one place.

Your Next Great Idea May Need a Different Setting Sometimes changing the environment changes the conversation. A strategy session becomes an opportunity to reconnect. A field trip becomes an immersive learning experience. A research meeting becomes a space for new ideas. A conference becomes something delegates remember long after they leave. That is the opportunity Wits Rural Campus offers. So, when planning your next conference, strategic planning session, workshop, field course, research project, writing retreat or team getaway, consider taking the conversation beyond the city.

Discover Wits Rural Campus, where learning, research and collaboration meet nature.

Members of the Wits community and external organisations are invited to contact the Wits Rural Campus Reception and Operations Team to discuss availability, quotations and customised accommodation, conferencing and catering packages. Come for the purpose. Stay for the experience. Leave with new perspectives.

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CENTRAL PRINTING UNIT (CPU)

From Concept to Print: Bring Your Ideas to Life with CPU Your work deserves to make the right impression

Whether

Whether it is a striking event poster, polished report, conference booklet, certificate or an urgent high-volume print job, the Central Printing Unit (CPU) is ready to turn your ideas into professionally finished products. Conveniently located on campus, CPU provides a comprehensive range of professional printing and document solutions to both the University of the Witwatersrand community as well as external clients.

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More Than Just Printing

From everyday documents to large-scale professional projects, CPU offers high-volume colour and black-and-white printing, photocopying, binding, laminating, scanning, large-format printing, booklets, brochures, business cards, certificates, flyers, posters and customised marketing materials.

What sets CPU apart is the combination of quality, convenience and dependable service. Clients benefit from competitive pricing, fast turnaround times, secure and confidential document handling, consistent print quality and an experienced team.

CENTRAL PRINTING UNIT

Big or Small, We Print It All Whether you need a single professionally finished Your work deserves to make the right impression. document or a large-volume print run, CPU provides solutions tailored to your requirements.

Wits faculties, schools, departments, researchers, student leadership structures and alumni can take advantage of competitive internal pricing and costeffective bulk printing rates. CPU also welcomes professional bodies, corporate organisations and community partners looking for reliable, high-quality printing solutions.

Make Your Next Project Stand Out Great ideas deserve great presentation.

Simply contact the Central Printing Unit via email or telephone, or visit the team in person, to discuss your requirements, obtain a quotation and identify the best solution for your project.

The Central Printing Unit is your trusted partner for professional printing solutions.

printing.services@wits.ac.za BEYOND FACILITIES EDITION

011 71 7 1353 Page 27

PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT HUB

Discover the Professional Development Hub. Whether you are planning an executive meeting, strategic planning session, workshop, event, training programme or conference, PDH offers professional, flexible spaces designed to help you achieve your objectives.

Conveniently located on campus, PDH brings together conference venues, executive boardrooms, training and workshop spaces, hybrid meeting capabilities, modern audio-visual technology and catering coordination, providing everything you need in one convenient location.

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Why Choose PDH? It offers a combination of convenience, flexibility, technology, competitive pricing and professional support that makes it stands out as an attractive choice. From selecting the right venue and set up to coordinating catering and event requirements, the PDH team provides support throughout the booking process to help ensure that your event runs smoothly.

Your next great conversation, decision or idea deserves the right environment. Contact the Professional Development Hub team via email or telephone or visit the team in person to discuss your requirements, explore available venues and request a competitive quotation.

Professional Development Hub, the space to meet, connect, collaborate and achieve. pdh.services@wits.ac.za

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011 717 4597

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RETAIL SPOTLIGHT

VIDA E CAFFÈ Your Coffee.

Your Campus.

Your vida e caffè.

Great ideas, early mornings and catch-ups often start with a good cup of coffee. For the past six years, Vida e Caffè has been part of the University of the Witwatersrand community, serving students, staff and visitors from its locations at the Wits Sibanye-Stillwater Infinity Bridge and Wits Art Museum. But Vida e Caffè is about more than grabbing a coffee between meetings or lectures.

Built around the idea of creating meaningful human connections, it offers the University community a welcoming space to pause, connect, recharge and refuel during a busy day on campus.

It can be where colleagues exchange ideas, students prepare for the next lecture, friends reconnect or someone simply takes a few minutes to reset before tackling the rest of the day.

Fuel Your Wits Day Heading to an early lecture? Moving between meetings? Looking for somewhere to catch up with a colleague or friend? Or simply in need of an afternoon pick-me-up? Vida e Caffè offers a convenient range of signature coffees, smoothies and fresh grab-and-go food options designed for the pace of campus life. With two locations across the University, your next coffee break may be closer than you think.

Make Vida Part of Your Campus Routine Six years on, Vida e Caffè remains proud to serve the Wits community, and there is always room for one more coffee. So, the next time you are crossing campus, heading into a meeting, lecture room or simply looking for somewhere to recharge, visit Vida e Caffè at the Wits Sibanye-Stillwater Infinity Bridge or Wits Art Museum and discover what is waiting on the menu.

More Than Coffee What makes Vida e Caffè distinctive is its combination of quality, convenience and connection.

Coffee before class. A quick bite between meetings. A catch-up with colleagues.

Whatever your Wits Day looks like, make time for a little vida.

A coffee shop on campus can be more than just a place to buy a cappuccino.

Vida e Caffè’s Head Regional Manager, shares a special message with the Wits community: “Obrigado, Wits, for making Vida e Caffè part of your everyday campus experience. We are proud to serve this vibrant community and look forward to many more great coffees, shared moments and meaningful connections together.”

That sense of community is what Vida e Caffè aims to bring to the University. The team continues to enhance convenience through faster service, loyalty rewards available via the Vida app and seasonal menu additions, including its recent winter offering.

Pink Me Up Salon

A Little Self-Care Goes a Long Way

Between lectures, meetings, deadlines and everything in between, sometimes you deserve a moment that is simply about you. Since February 2020, our on-campus Beauty Spa has been creating a convenient space where the Wits community can step away from the demands of the day, recharge and enjoy professional beauty and wellness services, without having to leave campus. From nails, lashes and brows to massages, waxing and facials, the spa offers a range of professional treatments delivered by trained and certified beauty specialists in a safe, clean and welcoming environment.

Busy schedule? No problem.

The spa is conveniently located on campus, to make it easier for students, staff and visitors to fit a little self-care into their day. Popular offerings include nail, brow and lash treatments, which offer the perfect combination of convenience and care, while massages and facials offer an opportunity to slow down, recharge and reset. With affordable, student-friendly pricing, taking care of yourself does not have to feel out of reach.

What makes the spa special is its focus on the whole experience. Beyond professional beauty treatments, the team is passionate about creating an environment where clients feel comfortable and cared for. The spa contributes to the student experience through career support and practical exposure for students with a keen interest in the beauty industry, while accredited courses offer opportunities to develop skills in nails, lashes, massage, waxing, facials, brow shaping and tinting.

Regular clients can also enjoy loyalty rewards, while birthday vouchers, gift vouchers and special graduation packages add an extra touch to life's memorable moments.

Because You Deserve a Little TLC. Right Here on Campus.

Self-care is about more than looking good. It’s about feeling good, recharging and making time for you. As the team puts it: “Beauty isn't only about how you look, it can give you the confidence to do things you never thought you could.” So, between the deadlines, lectures and meetings, remember to make a little time for yourself. Relax. Recharge. Refresh. Rediscover your confidence, right here on campus.

EVENTS

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WORLD FM DAY 2026

Celebrating Facilities Management Practitioners who keep Wits moving

The University of the Witwatersrand, through the Operations and Facilities Management Department (OFMD), proudly hosted the 2026 World FM Day celebration on 21 May 2026 for the first time, in partnership with the Higher Education Facilities Management Association (HEFMA). World FM Day is celebrated globally to recognise the vital contribution of facilities management practitioners.

This year’s World FM Day theme, “FM: Cultivating Belonging Through Built Environments,” resonates strongly with the University’s vision of creating campuses where students, staff and visitors feel safe, welcome, included and inspired to thrive. It reminds us that the built environment is not only a collection of buildings and infrastructure, but also the foundation upon which learning, research, innovation and community are built.

At Wits, OFMD is the custodian of the University’s physical infrastructure and operational environment. The Department manages and maintains academic buildings, residences, libraries, laboratories, sports facilities and public spaces. It also oversees engineering services, utilities, transport, catering and retail operations, landscaping, cleaning, waste management and numerous other operational support services that keep the University functioning every day. Together, these services create an environment that enables teaching, learning, research, innovation and student life to flourish.

The decision to host World FM Day was a deliberate affirmation that excellence in higher education extends far beyond lecture theatres and laboratories. It was an opportunity to recognise the often-unseen FM professionals who work tirelessly behind the scenes to ensure that our campuses remain safe, functional, sustainable and welcoming. Their dedication, professionalism, resilience and commitment enable the University community to focus on advancing knowledge, transforming lives and shaping the future. Every lecture delivered, every research breakthrough, every graduation ceremony and every student experience depends on safe, reliable and well-maintained facilities supported by skilled facilities management professionals.

As the custodian of the University's infrastructure and operations, OFMD plays a pivotal role in advancing the Wits 2033 Strategic Framework, particularly the strategic priorities of Modernising Systems and Operations and Campus of the Future. Guided by internationally recognised facilities management principles, the Department combines responsible asset stewardship, operational excellence, sustainability, resilience, digital transformation and continuous improvement to enhance service delivery and create long-term value for the University.

Through preventive maintenance, infrastructure renewal, improved energy and water efficiency, environmental sustainability programmes, enhanced operational systems and innovative service delivery, OFMD is helping to create campuses that are safe, sustainable, resilient, accessible and welcoming.

These initiatives not only protect the University's assets but also create environments where students, staff and visitors can thrive and experience a genuine sense of belonging.

Mr Israel Mogomotsi, OFMD Director, said : “World FM Day is a celebration of our people and the facilities management profession. Every day, our teams maintain hygienic environments, care for facilities, fields and landscaping, and help ensure the continuous supply of utilities, thereby creating safe, welcoming and conducive environments where teaching, learning, research and innovation can thrive.’’

“While much of our work happens behind the scenes, its impact is felt across every part of the University. I thank every member of OFMD for their professionalism, dedication and commitment. Together, we will continue to modernise our services, strengthen partnerships and advance our aspiration of becoming a trusted operations and facilities management partner to the University community,” he reflected.

The celebration of World FM Day also serves as an important reminder that facilities management is far more than a support function. It is a strategic partner in advancing the University’s mission by creating and sustaining the built environments that enable teaching, learning, research and innovation. Facilities Management is, in many ways, the heartbeat of the University ecosystem.

“Through operational excellence, sustainability, resilience and continuous improvement, OFMD is helping shape a campus where the Wits community can thrive.”

WORLD FOOD SAFETY DAY 2026

From burden to solutions - safe food everywhere

When it comes to food safety, everyone has a seat at the table.

The University of the Witwatersrand, through its Operations and Facilities Management Department, marked World Food Safety Day 2026 by bringing together the University community, government, academia, research institutions and food safety professionals for a dynamic programme of knowledge-sharing, dialogue and collaboration. The event created an important platform to move the conversation from understanding the burden of foodborne illness to identifying practical solutions for safer food environments.

The programme opened with welcoming remarks from Mr Israel Mogomotsi, Director of Operations and Facilities Management Department, followed by words of support delivered on behalf of the Deputy Vice-Chancellor: Systems and Operations, Prof Ian Jandrell, reinforcing the importance of food safety across the broader University environment.

Bringing Different Perspectives to the Table One of the strengths of this year’s programme was the diversity of voices contributing to the food safety conversation. Basil Minyuku, Environmental Health Specialist from OFMD, provided an overview of food safety at the University of the Witwatersrand, while Tsakane Nkuna, Vice Chairperson of Medhurst Hall and Deputy Chairperson for all catered residences within the AllResidence Sub-Council (ARSC), brought an important student perspective to the discussion.

Douglas Momberg from the University of Johannesburg expanded on food safety practices, while Bontle Mamabolo from PRICELESS SA explored the important relationship between food safety and nutrition.

The conversation extended beyond the University environment, with Millie Viljoen from the Department of Economic Development addressing consumer education and protection, Paulus Jacobs from the Border Management Authority providing insight into food safety controls at South Africa’s borders, and Thulisiwe Nkomzwayo from the CSIR sharing perspectives on food safety management and innovation.

Together, these contributions demonstrated that food safety is not the responsibility of one profession or institution. It requires collaboration across public health, regulation, research, technology, nutrition, operations and the consumer community.

A key highlight was the Food Safety Panel Discussion, coordinated by Dr K. Lebelo from the Wits School of Public Health. Bringing together representatives from the City of Johannesburg, the Border Management Authority, the National Department of Health and PRICELESS SA, the discussion provided an opportunity to examine food safety challenges from different perspectives and explore practical approaches to strengthening food safety systems.

The day was not only about discussion; it was also an opportunity to recognise those putting good food safety practices into action. The programme concluded with a celebration of excellence, honouring the best-performing food retailers and dining halls for their contribution to maintaining safer food environments and promoting continued commitment to high food safety standards.

World Food Safety Day 2026 served as a powerful reminder that every meal served, every standard upheld and every safe food practice contributes to protecting our community.

From awareness to action, and from burden to solutions, the University continues to strengthen a culture in which safe food is not simply a compliance requirement, it is a shared responsibility.

World Food Safety Day

promotes safe food practices that help prevent illness and protect health. Food safety is everyone's responsibility; learn more and follow simple food safety tips every day.

5 KEYS TO SAFER FOOD

Keep Clean

Separate raw and cooked

Cook thoroughly

Keep food at safe Use safe water temperatures and raw materials

S

AF

ER

FOO

D BETTER HE

H T AL

Asikhulumeni, Asakhaneni!

Men’s Health Conversations

Check in for Men

Breaking the Silence Wits Male Staff Reflect on the Power of Dialogue and Well-being

Men are often expected to navigate emotional, financial and physical pressures without openly expressing the challenges they face. The recent Men’s Health Dialogue, hosted by the Operations and Facilities Management Department, Wits Wellness Committee and Wits Communication Office under the theme “Asikhulumeni, Asakheni” (Let’s Talk, Let’s Build), created a supportive platform for open and meaningful conversations about men’s health and well-being.

Held across the Braamfontein and Parktown campuses on 9 and 10 July, the initiative brought staff together to discuss mental resilience, financial well-being, physical fitness and holistic health.

Brotherhood and the Courage to Speak

Support Beyond the Dialogue

Reflecting on the event, Gosiame Letlape, Administrative Assistant in OFMD, highlighted the openness of the conversations as one of the most meaningful aspects of the dialogue. He noted that hearing colleagues and leaders speak candidly, including in familiar languages such as isiZulu and Sesotho, helped foster a strong sense of brotherhood and created a more comfortable space for men to discuss stress, family responsibilities and workplace pressures.

The initiative also highlighted the ongoing support available through Life Health Solutions, Wits University’s Employee Wellness partner.

Staff members and their immediate household family members have access to confidential support 24 hours a day, seven days a week, throughout the year, including professional assistance such as:

The sessions on financial well-being and mental health particularly stood out, while Lordwick Kgatle’s story of resilience and his journey from waste reclaimer to where he is today served as an inspiring reminder that our starting point does not determine our destination.

The initiative also demonstrated how open conversations can strengthen workplace relationships by encouraging men to look beyond daily work tasks and genuinely check in with those around them. If you missed the dialogue, the message is simple: Don’t bottle things up. Asking for support is not a weakness; it is a sign of strength.

Mental and emotional well-being Financial advice and planning Legal support Health and physical wellness The Men’s Health Dialogue reinforced an important message: well-being starts with having the courage to speak, seek support and build one another up.

NELSON MANDELA DAY

More Than 67 Minutes: Operations and Facilities Management Department (OFMD)Turns Mandela Day into a Movement of Service

Give. Serve. Inspire Mandela Day continues to serve as a powerful affirmation that meaningful change begins when people choose to contribute their time, skills and resources in service of others. This year, OFMD brought this spirit to life through an initiative that extended beyond donations, demonstrating the power of teamwork, collaboration, partnership and service in action.

This year’s Mandela Day initiative mobilised OFMD employees across its various units, while also inviting the Department’s service providers to support the cause. The response demonstrated what can be achieved when a community comes together around a shared purpose.

In the lead-up to Mandela Day, OFMD employees rallied behind the cause by contributing essential items to support those in need through an internal donation drive. The initiative was further strengthened by the participation of OFMD service providers, several of whom generously contributed donations and supported the Department’s efforts.

Click to watch

Mandela Day Video

Importantly, the contributions reached more than one community.

Donations were allocated to support both the Nkanyezi Stimulation Centre and the broader Wits Mandela Day initiative facilitated by Wits Citizenship and Community Outreach (WCCO), extending the collective impact of the campaign beyond a single day or beneficiary.

BEYOND FACILITIES EDITION

Page 52

The heart of OFMD’s Mandela Day initiative came to life at the Nkanyezi Stimulation Centre in Soweto. But OFMD arrived with more than donated goods.

Drawing on the diverse skills and expertise that exist across the department, employees rolled up their sleeves and provided practical assistance both inside the Centre and within its outdoor garden areas. Teams contributed according to their different capabilities, supporting cleaning, gardening and improvement activities and helping to enhance the environment for those who use the Centre.

It was a powerful reflection of what facilities management ultimately represents: creating spaces that are safe, functional, welcoming and cared for, wherever those spaces may be.

Employees from different OFMD units displayed strong collaboration, going beyond and above their everyday responsibilities and using their skills for a common purpose.

BEYOND FACILITIES EDITION

Our sincere appreciation goes to every OFMD employee, unit and partner who donated, participated and gave their time to make the initiative a success. The impact achieved was not the result of one donation, one team or 67 minutes alone, but of many hands, diverse contributions and a shared commitment to making a difference. This collective effort was proudly recognised when OFMD emerged as the winner of the 2026 Wits Mandela Day Challenge, a fitting reflection of the Department’s spirit of collaboration, compassion and commitment to community impact.

That is Botho. That is service.

That is OFMD in action.

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“The greatest impact is not created by 67 minutes alone, but by many hands, shared skills and a collective commitment to serve. That is Ubuntu. That is service. That is OFMD in action.”

“The greatest impact is not created by 67 minutes alone, Give. but by many hands, shared Serve. skills and a collective Inspire commitment to serve. That is Ubuntu. That is service.

That is OFMD in action.”

BEYOND FACILITIES EDITION

You Called, We Answered

15,134 Service Requests

From January to July 2026,

15,000

OFMD recorded more than maintenance service requests across the University, highlighting the scale of work undertaken every day to keep our facilities safe, functional and responsive to the needs of the Wits community.

Keeping Wits working, One Service Request at a Time.

Customer Feedback

67 Compliments

44.7%

151

Customer

Feedback

You Spoke. We Listened.

We are Improving.

67

Compliments

83 Complaints

55.3%

Received

83

Opportunities for Improvement

Submissions (January - June)

Your feedback

helps us toimprove our service provision

Intercampus Bus Service 280 039 Kilometres Travelled (January - June)

98% of On-Time Trips

Vegetarian Korma

Heritage, Inclusion, and Culinary Excellence at Wits University

BEYOND FACILITIES EDITION

Page 7

Cornell Miti is an accomplished Global Executive Chef with extensive international Chef Cornell Miti experience across luxury cruise ships, premium resorts, boutique hotels, casinos and renowned dining destinations in Los Angeles, San Francisco, Italy, Canada and beyond.

Specialising in contemporary fusion cuisine, Chef Cornell combines global flavours, classical techniques and modern culinary trends to create innovative and memorable dining experiences. His culinary philosophy centres on fresh, responsibly sourced ingredients, sustainable practices and artistic presentation.

A passionate culinary leader, Chef Cornell is committed to culinary excellence, team development, menu innovation and exceptional guest experiences. His expertise, creativity and dedication have earned him recognition within the international hospitality industry.

BEYOND FACILITIES EDITION

Signature Style: Contemporary Fusion Cuisine | Fresh Seasonal Ingredients | Global Flavors | Sustainable Sourcing | Luxury Hospitality Excellence | Culinary Innovation | Team Leadership

"Great cuisine is the perfect balance between tradition and innovation, where the finest ingredients tell a story through every dish."— Chef Cornell Miti

Page 7

THE LAST PUSH

We are in the last lap of the year.

By now, the energy may be running low, the workload may feel heavier and the finish line may seem both close and far away.

PROGRESS TOGETHER

PUT IN THE WORK

Show up. Stay committed.

Do your part. Consistency turns effort into results.

WORK SMART. REST TOO.

Give your best at work, but make time to rest, recharge and take care of yourself.

STAY FOCUSED

Prioritise what matters and keep your eyes on the bigger picture.

KEEP EACH OTHER GOING

ASK. SUPPORT. COLLABORATE Open communication is important when workloads become demanding. Speak up when assistance is needed and be there for those around you.

Look out for one another, stay connected and remember that a simple check-in can make a meaningful difference.

Disclaimer: This newsletter is intended for information and engagement purposes. While every effort is made to ensure the accuracy of published content at the time of release, it may be subject to change. Views expressed by contributors are their own and do not represent the official position of the University of the Witwatersrand or OFMD.

For all enquiries, Please contact our

Call Centre

Behind the Publication Stakeholder Relationship Manager Lebogang Maila Graphic Designer Lebogang Mokgosi Administration Assistant Gosiame Letlape

011 717 8888 callcentre.ofmd@wits.ac.za

Newsletter Enquiries

Communication.OFMD@wits.ac.za

Celebrating‌

WOMEN‌

IN OPERATIONS AND FACILITIES MANAGEMENT DEPARTMENT

“Celebrating the women who lead with purpose, break barriers, support others and continue to make an impact in the workplace. May we recognise not only their achievements, but also the resilience, expertise and determination behind them.”