Professor Rushiella Songca Hails MUT’s Unqualified Audit as Era of Renewal
For MUT to secure an unqualified audit opinion in such a short period is unprecedented, reflecting the collective resolve of an institution determined to change its trajectory.
The Vice-Chancellor and Principal of Mangosuthu University of Technology (MUT), Professor Rushiella Songca, has described the University’s achievement of an unqualified audit opinion as one of the most significant milestones in its history, calling it the beginning of a new era of renewal, accountability, and sustainable excellence.
The outcome marks an extraordinary turnaround. Universities emerging from a disclaimer audit opinion often spend years rebuilding governance systems, strengthening financial controls, and restoring confidence.
For MUT to secure an unqualified audit opinion in such a short period is unprecedented, reflecting the collective resolve of an institution determined to change its trajectory.
Professor Songca, who assumed office as Interim Vice-Chancellor and Principal in March 2026, expressed pride and humility at leading MUT during this defining period.
“I am deeply humbled and immensely proud to stand alongside the Council, Executive Management, Senate, staff and students at this historic moment. While I have only been at MUT since March, this achievement belongs to every individual who believed that this University could rise again.
“It is a powerful reminder that transformation is possible when people unite behind a shared vision, act with integrity and place the interests of the University above individual interests.”
She praised the dedication of staff who worked long hours to strengthen governance and accountability. “Many colleagues sacrificed personal time and demonstrated unwavering commitment. Their professionalism and belief in MUT’s future made this achievement possible. This success belongs to all of us.”
Professor Songca also paid tribute to the University’s governance structures, acknowledging the strategic leadership of Council under Chairperson Dr Mosidi Makgae, and the critical oversight of the Finance and Investment Committee and the Audit and Risk Committee. “Their rigorous oversight and commitment to accountability ensured our turnaround strategy remained focused and measurable,” she said.
Council described the achievement as “a defining moment in the history of the institution,” while governance committee leaders commended the collective efforts that enabled MUT to move from a disclaimer to an unqualified audit opinion.
While celebrating, Professor Songca stressed that the audit outcome is not the destination but a foundation. “An unqualified audit is far more than a financial outcome. It reflects stronger governance, greater accountability, improved systems, and renewed confidence in how we manage resources.
“Most importantly, it gives our students, staff, government, industry partners, donors and society renewed confidence that MUT is building an institution worthy of their trust.”
She noted that the milestone directly supports MUT’s IGNITE 2030 Strategy, which positions the University as a leading institution of technology recognised for academic excellence, impactful research, innovation, stakeholder confidence, and sustainable development.
“Today we celebrate, but tomorrow we continue the work,” Professor Songca concluded.
“We have demonstrated that transformation is possible. Our responsibility now is to protect this achievement, build on it, and ensure that future generations inherit an institution that is stronger, more accountable, and globally respected. This marks the beginning of MUT’s next chapter—from recovery to resilience, from resilience to excellence, and from excellence to lasting impact.”
As MUT celebrates this landmark achievement, the University reaffirms its commitment to strengthening governance, advancing academic excellence, promoting innovation, and creating lasting value for students, staff, partners, and the broader South African society.
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