Operations and Facilities Manage : simplebooklet.com

am excited to share with you the veryfirst edition of the Operations andFacilities Management Department(OFMD) Newsletter since the strategicmerger of the Services Department andparts of PIMD in January 2025. IThe primary goal of this publication is toregularly communicate impactful andstrategic work of the OFMD and shine aspotlight on the extraordinary individualswhom I proudly regard as the silent force andthe backbone of our institution. These are theheroes who often go unnoticed while workingbehind the scenes to ensure that studentsand staff work, learn and live in a safe, clean,and habitable campus infrastructure. The merger between Services Departmentand parts of PIMD resulted in theestablishment of the OFMD. This merger wasessentially influenced by a value engineeringproject that recommended the integration ofsoft and hard services under one umbrella. The recommendation pointed out that themerger would significantly improve servicedelivery by offering our clients a single pointof contact for all facilities-related matters,secondly, the university will realise value instreamlining roles in the long term which willcontribute towards financial sustainability.The merger became effective in January2025. We are currently navigating thetransition phase and so far, we are makingpositive strides.Key Projects for 2025As we embark on the exciting journey ofreorganizing the department, several keyinitiatives for 2025 have been identified andall of us have an importantrole to contribute to their successful completion.These initiatives include the development of thedepartmental strategy, maintenance strategy,and commercial strategy, business processesand standard operating procedures, a review ofthe organizational structure, capacity building,regularization of contractors and serviceproviders, change management, and thecompletion of the Archibus system project. Wewill also be hosting awareness campaigns suchas the World Food Safety Day and Environmental Sustainability Exhibition. Recruitment and RedeploymentThe Senior Leadership Team is advancingrecruitment to fill key positions and redeploy staffto strengthen the department. Congratulations tothe new recruits and redeployed team members.Campus WalkaboutsWe have started campus walkabouts to engagewith faculty and department representatives,assess infrastructure, and address campuschallenges related to our services. World Facilities Management DayAs we join the global celebration of WorldFacilities Management (FM) Day, I am remindedof the vital role the OFMD plays at the University.This year’s theme reflects the daily challengesand achievements we face as FacilitiesManagement Practitioners. I want to take this opportunity to thank all of you.You are the unsung heroes, the quiet enablers ofWits’ success. Let us continue to build on ourshared values of Trust, Honesty, Respect,Integrity, and Collaboration, as we focus onachieving our vision of being a trusted operationsand facilities management partner of choice, whodeliver consistent quality service. A message from the directorOPERATIONS AND FACILITIES MANAGEMENT NEWSLETTER2

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World Facilities Management Day,observed annually and celebrated thisyear on 14 May 2025, offers a globalplatform to recognize the often unsungheroes of our daily environment,individuals in the facilities managementsector. Originally commemorated on 8 August2009, the date of celebration has shiftedover the years, but its purpose hasremained the same: to shine a spotlight onthe essential contributions of facilitiesmanagement teams. These dedicatedindividuals ensure that our spaces remainsafe, efficient, and sustainable andcreating environments where people canthrive. This day serves as a well-deservedtribute to the expertise, dedication, andbehind-the-scenes commitment of thosewho keep operations running smoothly,often without recognition. Theme: Resilience in action: Thriving in a world of changeOPERATIONS AND FACILITIES MANAGEMENT NEWSLETTER4

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OPERATIONS AND FACILITIES MANAGEMENT NEWSLETTER5It is often easy to overlook theeveryday heroes who keep ourspaces running, but theirimpact is undeniable. Imagine a day without ourcleaning staff, who upholdcleanliness and hygiene acrossevery corner of our facilities,our waste management team,who ensure waste is properlyhandled and our bins remainspotless. Our electricians whokeep the lights on andessential systems running, andour plumbing teams whoensure ablution facilitiesoperate seamlessly. It is no doubt that the facilitiesmanagement sector is evolving rapidly,shaped by key megatrends such asdigital transformation, sustainability,resilience, hybrid workspaces, and costoptimization. These changes demand ashift from maintaining operations toembracing innovation and adaptability.Under the theme “Resilience inAction: Thriving in a World ofChange,” this year’s themehighlights how facilities teams areresponding to ongoing challenges,from utility instability and climateimpacts to fast-paced technologicaladvances.Facilities management is not just asupport function, it is a strategicpartner in the university’s success.The efforts within this area must bealigned with the university’sobjectives to support academicprograms and uphold the Witsvalues: “excellence underpins allthat we do.”FACILITIESIN ACTION

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OPERATIONS AND FACILITIES MANAGEMENT NEWSLETTER8Tinyiko’s storyT essential infrastructure working againstthe odds. At the heart of it is Tinyiko,Deputy Director for Utility, Energy, andGMR Compliance, a seasoned engineerand systems thinker with a 22-yearjourney across major industries, and now,Wits. Armed with a Master of EngineeringDegree and recognition as the topelectrical engineering student by the SAInstitute of Measurement Control,Tinyiko’s career has been built on grit,and excellence. From managing complexoperations in the Lesotho Highland WaterProject to mentoring the next generationof engineers through the EngineeringCouncil of South Africa, his footprint isfar-reaching. We asked Tinyiko what made him chooseWits and his eyes lit up: “ I was inspiredby the opportunity to grow while solvingreal challenges in a dynamic space. Thisrole allows me to collaborate, lead, andhelp build a legacy.”here is a quiet but powerfulrevolution underway at WitsUniversity, one that is notmaking headlines, but ispowering the lights, securingwater flow, and keepingHe may not be the loudest voice in theroom, but his impact echoes throughthe very veins of the campus. He andhis team are reimagining how utilitiesserve education, and how serviceexcellence becomes a livedexperience.Some of the critical problems heidentified include, aging infrastructureand lack of preventive maintenance ,slow response times, inconsistentservice quality, absence of clear SLAswith service providers and skills gaps ininternal teams. Under Tinyiko’s leadership, the Utilitiesand GMR unit has launched a multi-phase transformation strategy. Itincludes developing a 10-yearinfrastructure upgrade plan, rolling outhybrid solar systems to reduce thecampus’s carbon footprint,implementing a ComputerizedMaintenance Management System forefficiency, signing and launchingenergy audits and check-meteringinstallations to reduce costs and boostsustainability.

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OPERATIONS AND FACILITIES MANAGEMENT NEWSLETTER9His roadmap does not stop at short-term fixes. His team is laying thegroundwork for completereplacement of bulk water andenergy infrastructure, a businesscontinuity plan to ensureuninterrupted utility supply, a long-term GMR compliance and contractoraccountability and appointment of anew Utilities Manager.His message to the Wits communityis clear: “We see the challenges, andwe are acting. But transformation is ateam effort, and with yourcollaboration and feedback, we willgo further, faster.” One of Tinyiko’s driving philosophies is toupskill internal staff and reducedependency on external contractors.“When we invest in our people, weenhance quality, accountability, andfoster pride in our work.” He believes inempowering teams to align with theuniversity’s mission and encourages anopen, collaborative culture whereeveryone feels part of the solution.Beyond pipes, meters, and switches liesthe real mission: service excellence. “Tome, it is not about overpromising it isabout consistently delivering what wehave committed to. By this time next year,I am confident Wits will see and feel thedifference.” he says.And when the days are long and thesystems falter, what keeps him going?“The knowledge that I am making adifference, that our efforts are improvinglives on campus. That is what fuels me.” WHEN WE INVEST IN OUR PEOPLE,WE ENHANCE QUALITY,ACCOUNTABILITY, AND FOSTERPRIDE IN OUR WORK.

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At the heart of any great institution liesthe seamless operation of its physicalspaces, the infrastructure that supportslearning, research, and innovation. AtWits University, this responsibility restsin capable hands. Meet Kabelo, theDeputy Director of Maintenance andOperations within the Operations andFacilities Management Department, aseasoned leader whose mission is notjust to fix what is broken but to transformhow the university experiences itsspaces. With over two decades of engineeringand management experience acrossmining, energy, health, and constructionsectors, Kabelo brings more thantechnical expertise to the role, he bringsvision, integrity, and action. AProfessional Engineer, CharteredManager, and Senior Member of theSouth African Institute of ElectricalEngineers, Kabelo’s résumé reflects bothdepth and distinction.Kabelo’s leadership is defined bysolution-oriented thinking andempowerment. He fosters anenvironment where team members areencouraged to take ownership, offersolutions, and grow. “I lead by example.My role is to create a space whereothers thrive,” he says.Stepping into this role has not beenwithout its challenges. The section isfaced with service delivery shortfalls andclient dissatisfaction. Instead of beingdaunted, he sees an opportunity toreimagine how facilities andmaintenance can deliver excellence.ENGINEERINGIMPACTA conversation with the Deputy Directorof Maintenance and Operations: KabeloMocwane on challenges, wins and theroad ahead within the maintenance andoperations spaceFacilities in FocusOPERATIONS AND FACILITIES MANAGEMENT NEWSLETTER10

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OPERATIONS AND FACILITIES MANAGEMENT NEWSLETTER11Kabelo reflects that “turning things aroundmeans that we should be clear on ourobjectives, establish plans and timelines, andmonitor progress. That is how we turn thingsaround.” When asked about what motivates himthrough the inevitable challenges of leading in acomplex environment, Kabelo responds, “Ialways look forward to the smile of a satisfiedclient.”Looking ahead, Kabelo’s leadership is apowerful reminder that true impact happenswhen strategy meets service. As Wits continuesits mission of academic excellence andinnovation, the maintenance and operationsteam under his guidance is ensuring that thephysical environment reflects and supports thatambition.The Wits community can rest assured that itsfacilities are in the hands of a visionary leaderwho understands that every repaired roof, everyfixed light, every safe lecture hall is part of agreater mission of creating an environmentwhere students and staff thrive.From day one, Kabelo got to workdeveloping what he calls the buildingblocks of operational transformation.Some of the most impactful early winsinclude: institutionalizing stakeholderengagement through regular,collaborative planning meetings,implementing a general maintenanceservice level agreements which setsclear expectations on cost, quality,safety, and performance, regularizingcontractors to address audit findingsand improve accountability,strengthening internal systems viastructured team engagements andusage of the integrated workplacemanagement system, deliveringtangible improvements, such as thesuccessful waterproofing of LinderAuditorium and refurbishing the iconicSterkfontein Caves.Kabelo’s storyI ALWAYS LOOKFORWARD TO THE SMILEOF A SATISFIED CLIENT

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OPERATIONS AND FACILITIES MANAGEMENT NEWSLETTER13Dumisani’s storyOver the years, he built a strongfoundation working with variouscompanies, before being insourced byWits in 2017. In 2020, he successfullypassed his trade test and waspromoted to Electrical Artisan in 2022,a well-deserved recognition of his hardwork and dedication. When asked whatinspired his career choice, he says,"electrical engineering is interestingbecause it requires the use of yourbrain. And I love using my brain."Outside of work, he is involved incommunity initiatives and currently amember of Asikhulume NetworkConnections, an NPO that encouragesmen to support one another. He alsoserves as a member of IkhayaLeziyoni, which unites Zion churchbishops nationwide.The moment Mr. Dumisani BennettNgema walked in, his infectious smileinstantly brightened the room, setting thetone for the kind of energy andenvironment we all strive for at work. Adedicated Electrical Artisan, his story is apowerful example of perseverance,passion, and purpose.Born and raised in Mofolo South, Soweto,his journey is deeply rooted in resilience.Growing up during the apartheid era, hefaced many challenges, includingdisruptions to his early education due tothe political unrest. Despite this, hepersevered, completing his Matric atGudu High School in 1988.He later pursued his passion forengineering, earning his N6 Diploma inElectrical Engineering fromJohannesburg Technical College in 1992.Breaking into the industry was not easyduring that period. He began hisprofessional career in 1994 as a TraineeElectrical Technician. He holds certifications including: N6 in ElectricalEngineering, Trade Test Certification, InstallationRules P1 and P2, Evacuation CoordinatorCertificate, Firefighting Certificate, and IndustrialElectronics (N5). He hopes to obtain GCC(Government Certificate of Competency), with hissights set on stepping into a Director’s Office role inthe future.

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Please join us in welcoming Onica Tshavhungwe to theFinance and Administration Unit. Onica holds a NationalDiploma in Accounting from University of Johannesburgand is currently completing a Bcompt (Bachelor ofAccounting Science). Her background spans across rolesin Auditing and Financial Compliance. Onica bringstechnical expertise and a strong sense of purpose to herrole. Passionate about education and inspired by Wits’ values,she joined the team to make a meaningful impact. Sincejoining three months ago, Onica has embraced the Witsculture and is actively engaging in cross-departmentalcollaboration. Outside of work, she enjoys fitness, readingbiographies, and indulging in her love for plants. We areexcited to have Onica on board and look forward to thepositive contributions she will make to the department andthe university.Onica TshavhungweMeet Phiwokuhle Mashaba, the newest member of theProfessional Development Hub team. With a strongbackground in digital content management, filmproduction, and customer experience, she has gainedhands-on experience in roles such as social media lead,production assistant at the Wits Film & TV Departmentand a Voice Over artist for the Wits Anglo American DigitalDome Launch Video in 2024. She holds a BA Honours in Film and Television (withdistinction) and a BA in Media Studies and AfricanLanguages. Beyond work, Phiwokuhle is a creativeentrepreneur, a singer, a cook, and former Wits Choirmember. She has ambitions to pursue senior AV orcommunications roles and to expand her event décorbusiness. Phiwokuhle Mashaba OUR TEAM JUST GOT EVEN BETTERIntroducing our new employees who recently joined ourdepartment OPERATIONS AND FACILITIES MANAGEMENT NEWSLETTER14

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We are delighted to welcome Obakeng Daniel Tlhapi tothe Retail Operations team! With a strong background inhospitality, food service, and retail, Obakeng bringsvaluable experience in customer service, operationalefficiency, and leadership. He holds qualifications whichinclude Diploma in Food & Beverage Operations, BTechin Hospitality Management an Advanced Diploma inRetailing, along with certifications in Food Safety, FirstAid, and Beverage Studies.Obakeng is passionate about service excellence, creatingimpactful customer experiences and embeddingcompliance into everyday operations. Outside of work, heenjoys exploring new food spots, cultural activities, and isdedicated to personal growth and mentorship. Known forhis lively personality and sense of humour, Obakeng evenjokes about missing his calling as a DJ!Obakeng Daniel TlhapiWe are happy to welcome Maanda Radzuma to theOFMD team as the new Responsible Engineer GMR.2.1.Originally from Makhado, Venda, Maanda holds a NationalDiploma in Mechanical Engineering, BTech degree andMaster's Degree in Mechanical Engineering. He iscertified with the GCC Factories certificate, qualifying himas a professional certificated engineer. Maanda's careerspans roles in the railway industry, foundry consumablestechnology manufacturing, acid mine water treatmentplant, silicone smelter and concentrated solar power plant.For Maanda, engineering goes beyond building systems; itis about ensuring safety and protecting people. He ispassionate about research, technology, and innovation.Outside of work, he enjoys gaming, watching anime andhistorical documentaries, as well as spending timeoutdoors hiking.We look forward to the impact he will make at OFMD.Maanda RadzumaOPERATIONS AND FACILITIES MANAGEMENT NEWSLETTER15

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Networking is a critical part of personal branding. There isa powerful intersection where building meaningfulnetworks directly supports how you present and positionyourself. Harvard Business School lecturer Jill Averyhighlights that developing your personal brand, displayingyour value, and making your unique strengths visible is acritical skill that pays off in career growth. And what betterway to start than by networking with intention andpurpose?You do not need a social media empire or viral content tobuild a strong brand. Start by asking yourself thisquestions: What strengths and values define me?What do I want to be known for?Am i visible where it maters, i.e., LinkedIn, teams,mentorship groups, meetings and other workplatforms? 13OPERATIONS AND FACILITIES MANAGEMENT NEWSLETTER18BRAND YOUTHE POWER OF PERSONALBRANDING IN CAREER SUCCESSPersonal branding is the strategic presentation ofwho you are, what you do, and what makes youdifferent. Think of it as your professionalfingerprint: unique, lasting, and powerful.Personal branding has evolved from a buzzwordinto career necessity. In today’s digital age,everyone is essentially a brand. As Tom Petersnotes “ we are CEOs of our own companies calledMe, Inc, our most essential job is to be headmarketer for the brand called YOU”. Onlinevisibility, professional credibility and networkingopportunities are all key strategic investments inyour career development.

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Chef Cornell’s storyOPERATIONS AND FACILITIES MANAGEMENT NEWSLETTER21Chef Cornell was pulled by theirresistible aroma from the kitchen at thehotel where he was working as amaintenance assistant. Every day aftercompleting his maintenance duties, hevolunteered himself in kitchenoperations, driven by curiosity and anundeniable love for food.Recognizing this dedication, his formerGeneral Manager saw potential in himand enrolled him at the School of Chefs,igniting a new chapter in his career.Since then, he has honed his craftacross luxury lodges, high-end hotels,and even cruise ships, He possessextensive experience in large scale bulkproduction. Today, he pours that samepassion and precision into every dishserved in the dining halls. What is making his experience at theuniversity truly special is the support heis receiving from management andaccess to the right tools and resourcesto do his job. Passionate about staff development, heis committed to continuously upskillinghis team, ensuring they grow alongsidethe evolving demands of the diningexperience. His menu design philosophy is boththoughtful and practical, carefullyconsidering user needs, seasonalavailability, and ingredient accessibility.Ultimately, his goal is simple, to servefood that brings people together,supports wellness, and reflects thevalues of a vibrant universitycommunity.

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Meet Rouge Letswalo, our new SousChef at Wits, who is redefining theculinary landscape with his uniqueapproach and dedication to excellence.He brings extensive expertise and adeeply rooted love for food to our dininghalls.In Grade 10 Chef Rouje was alreadyhosting pop-up restaurants, whichgained a lot of recognition. This earlysuccess led him to compete in a 5-starhotel competition, which he won andearning him a bursary to attend theInternational Hotel School and serve astheir brand ambassador.He earned a Professional Cookery andKitchen Management Diploma,complemented by certifications inManaging Food and BeveragesOperations and Food SafetyManagement. Rouje also gained hands-on experience at several prestigioushotels in various capacities including;Senior Chef De Partie, Training andDevelopment Chef, General Manager. Over time, he advanced through theranks, including overseeing masscatering for Miss South Africa and laterstepping into the role of head chef at arenowned restaurant in Hartbeespoort. One of his standout achievements wasleading the reopening of a premiumairline lounge at a major internationalairport.Chef Rouje describes his style asrooted in cultural cuisine, MiddleEastern, Mexican, and Frenchtechniques. His dream is to put SouthAfrican cuisine on the global map. He views large-scale menu design as astrategic balance of understandingdemographics, dietary needs,seasonality, logistics, and budget,crafting menus that resonate with thepeople he serves.Fun Fact? Rouje's creative pursuits arenot limited to the kitchen, he is also intomusic with experience in open micperformances as a rapper.Chef Rouje’s storyOPERATIONS AND FACILITIES MANAGEMENT NEWSLETTER23

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OPERATIONS AND FACILITIES MANAGEMENT NEWSLETTER25The Adults Education and Training (AET) and learnership programmes aremore than just learning initiatives. They represents the university anddepartment’s commitment to continuous education and transformation. The purpose of these programmes are to empower employees with essentialliteracy, numeracy and on the job skills that support lifelong learning, andpersonal growth. For many, they remain a rare and empowering chance toreshape their future, to one filled with potential, purpose, and pride. To find outmore about these programmes, please contact janice.degouveia@wits.ac.zaPhoto: 2024 learnership programme celebration

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OPERATIONS AND FACILITIES MANAGEMENT NEWSLETTER26Chwayitha Mondile’s journey withthe AET Programme is a heartfeltreflection of personal growth andresilience. A Wits staff membersince 2012, she enrolled in theAET Program in March 2025,starting at level 2 and progressedto level 3. She enrolled in theprogramme motivated by a strongdesire to enhance her spelling,pronunciation, communicationskills, and vocabulary.As a mother, she found itchallenging to help her childrenwith homework, which inspired herto return to learning. "My son is inGrade 6, and he often brings homethe same homework as mine. Weend up laughing and helping eachother," she shares. Despite initial fears about herEnglish skills, she quickly foundconfidence in the programme’ssupportive and non-judgmentalenvironment. She credits thepatient and understandingeducators for helping herovercome her insecurities andembrace learning. To those hesitant about joining,Chwayitha offers reassurance:“No one will make you feel badfor getting things wrong. Justcome for one day, you will havea good experience.”VOICES FROM THECLASSROOMWHAT AET MEANSTO CHWAYITHA

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OPERATIONS AND FACILITIES MANAGEMENT NEWSLETTER27Olga Teboho Sono, has been partof the Wits University communitysince April 2012, initially employedthrough an outsourced serviceprovider. In January 2017, she wasinsourced as a general worker. In November last year, Olgaembraced a new chapter byenrolling in the AET programme atLevel 2, following encouragementfrom her manager Mr. Mazibuko,and is currently enrolled at Level 3.Having left school in Grade 11 dueto personal responsibilities, she isnow determined to complete hereducation to honour her lateparents and set an example for herchildren. She values the open and respectfulculture at Wits, which allows her toexpress herself and feel heard. Hermessage to others is clear: “Don’tgive up. The support is there, andthe teachers are kind.”Olga encourages the departmentto continue promoting the AETprogramme and to support staffwho may be hesitant to join. WHAT AET MEANSTO OLGA

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OPERATIONS AND FACILITIES MANAGEMENT NEWSLETTER28Gugu Mncube’s journey with Witsbegan in 2009 when she startedworking at the cafeteria. After tenyears of working at the cafeteria,she joined the University of theWitwatersrand in 2019, taking on anew position as a General Workerin the Services Department.Having left school in Grade 10,Gugu always felt she could dobetter. When the AET programme wasoffered, she seized the opportunity.In 2023, she enrolled in Level 1,completed Level 2 in November2024, and is now working towardsLevel 3. One of Gugu’s proudest moments?Standing confidently in front of herclass to give a presentation,something she never thought shewould do. “I talked about mycommunity, its challenges withdrugs and crime, and what couldbe done to uplift it. That day Irealized I can be confident andcomfortable speaking in front ofpeople”. When asked about the support shehas received, Gugu beams: “Theteachers are very patient. Theyunderstand that most of us havenot been in school for years. Theytake their time to help usunderstand.” she said.VOICES FROM THECLASSROOMWHAT AET MEANSTO GUGU

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OPERATIONS AND FACILITIES MANAGEMENT NEWSLETTER29Kenneth Mwale, a 52-year-oldemployee at the Knockando dininghall, has been part of the Witscommunity for 8 years. Beforejoining Wits, he worked in thehospitality industry before beingretrenched.Kenneth, motivated by a desire forself-improvement, enrolled in theAET Programme and startedattending on 05 May 2025 afterlearning about it through his DiningHall Liaison Office.With an educational backgroundthrough Grade 11, Kenneth isdetermined to pursue furtherqualifications and continues to stayfocused on his dream of one daybecoming an executive chef.He values the AET Programme forgiving employees a second chanceat education. “Education doesn’tend,” he says. “You have to do itfor yourself because you neverknow where life will take you.”WHAT AET MEANSTO KENNETH

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OPERATIONS AND FACILITIES MANAGEMENT NEWSLETTER30WORKER’S DAY APPRECIATIONBY BARNATO HALL HOUSECOMMITTEEWorkers’ Day in South Africa,observed annually on 1st May,pays tribute to the contributions of workers and commemorates the hard-wonstruggles for fair labour rights. It stands as apowerful reminder of the ongoing pursuit ofequality, dignity, and justice in the workplace.In the spirit of this movement, the BarnatoHall House Committee proudly joined in thecelebration by hosting a staff appreciationevent.This initiative was their way ofacknowledging the invaluablecontributions of the dedicatedcleaning teams who work behind thescenes to make their residence aclean, safe, and a welcoming home.They mentioned that their hard workand commitment often go unnoticed,but their impact is deeply felt everyday. This gesture reinforced thesense of mutual respect andcommunity between residencestudents and staff. It is a reminderthat every effort counts, andappreciation strengthens the bondsthat hold us together. Re re halala tothe Barnato Hall Cleaning Team,halala!“Thank you for making Barnato Hall feel like home.We’re grateful for you.” From the house-committee

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