TUT Is Thrilled To Launch Its First-Ever Graduation Hall On Its Ga-Rankuwa Campus

TUT Is Thrilled To Launch Its First-Ever Graduation Hall On Its Ga-Rankuwa Campus. The Tshwane University of Technology (TUT) has taken a historic step by inaugurating its first-ever graduation hall at the Ga-Rankuwa Campus. This monumental achievement is not only a milestone for the university but also a significant development for the Faculty of Economics and Finance, which is housed on this campus. With this state-of-the-art facility, TUT sets the stage for enhanced academic experiences, grander ceremonies, and better engagement with its community.
The New Ga-Rankuwa Multipurpose Hall
The newly launched multipurpose hall at Ga-Rankuwa Campus is a testament to TUT’s commitment to excellence and innovation. Officially unveiled on November 27, 2024, this modern facility is a symbol of progress and the university’s vision to elevate academic and community engagement.
Key Features of the New Hall
- Capacity and Design:
- The hall has a seating capacity of 970, with an additional first-floor gallery that accommodates 240 people.
- This spacious design ensures that graduations, conferences, and other major events can be held comfortably on campus grounds.
- Examination Space:
- Previously, the largest hall at Ga-Rankuwa could host only 200 students for exams.
- The new facility allows up to 485 students to take exams simultaneously, reducing logistical challenges.
- Versatility:
- Beyond graduations, the hall is perfect for hosting conferences, public lectures, and workshops.
- The space will also house flagship community engagement programs, such as the annual tax clinic, where TUT experts provide free tax advice to students, staff, and community members.
A Milestone in TUT History
For decades, graduation ceremonies for Ga-Rankuwa Campus students were held at the Soshanguve Campus. The new hall eliminates this dependency, marking the beginning of a new era where students can celebrate their achievements in the heart of their campus.
Inaugural Graduations in 2025
The first graduations in the new hall are scheduled for the autumn season of 2025. This momentous occasion will undoubtedly create a sense of pride among students, faculty, and the broader Ga-Rankuwa community.
Visionary Leadership Behind the Project
The completion of the Ga-Rankuwa Hall is a result of years of dedication, resilience, and visionary leadership. Several key figures played instrumental roles in making this dream a reality.
Vice-Chancellor and Principal Prof Tinyiko Maluleke
Prof Maluleke’s leadership has been pivotal in driving TUT’s infrastructure development. He described the new hall as a gateway to the future of work and emphasized its role in opening the doors of learning.
Interim Campus Rector Dr. Elikanah Lumadi
Dr. Lumadi highlighted the perseverance and hard work that went into the project despite numerous setbacks. During the launch event, he expressed his pride in finally seeing the hall come to life.
Deputy Vice-Chancellor for Operations Dr. Nkgatho Tlale
Dr. Tlale reflected on the challenges of completing unfinished infrastructure projects at TUT. Of the 13 incomplete buildings identified when Prof Maluleke joined the university, only two remain unfinished. This hall’s completion is a testament to their shared determination to enhance the campus’s facilities.
Benefits of the New Hall
Enhanced Academic Projects
According to Executive Dean of Economics and Finance, Prof Polly Mashigo, the new hall eliminates the costly and inconvenient reliance on external venues. This change will significantly benefit academic projects and activities on the Ga-Rankuwa Campus.
Strengthening Community Engagement
The hall’s versatility ensures it can host various community programs, such as workshops and tax clinics. These initiatives foster a stronger relationship between the university and its surrounding communities.
Improved Student Experience
For students, the hall represents more than just a venue—it is a space for celebrations, learning, and personal growth. The ability to host graduations and other key events on campus enhances their overall university experience.
A Call for Continued Progress
While the launch of the Ga-Rankuwa Hall is a significant achievement, Campus Student Representative Council President Ntando Mbonane emphasized the need for continued efforts. She called for faster project completion rates and better maintenance of existing buildings, ensuring that students have access to world-class facilities.
Support from Stakeholders
The success of this project would not have been possible without the unwavering support of various stakeholders. Prof Maluleke thanked the Department of Higher Education, particularly Minister Dr. Nobuhle Nkabane, for their encouragement and resources. He also acknowledged the contributions of the University Council and student leaders in bringing the project to fruition.
Looking Ahead
The inauguration of the multipurpose hall is just the beginning of a larger infrastructure rollout at the Ga-Rankuwa Campus. Prof Maluleke has reaffirmed the university’s commitment to completing other pending projects, ensuring that the campus evolves into a hub of academic excellence and innovation.
Conclusion
The opening of the new graduation hall at TUT’s Ga-Rankuwa Campus is a transformative step in the university’s journey. It symbolizes progress, resilience, and a commitment to creating better opportunities for students, staff, and the community.