The Durban University of Technology yesterday bid farewell to its interim Vice-Chancellor and Principal, Dr John Volmink, who was hailed as “a man of honour” during his send-off.

Dr Volmink’s farewell dinner was held at the Emakhosini Boutique Hotel, Morningside, where guests included DUT Council members such as Wiseman Madinane, DUT Council Chair; Judge Vuka Tshabalala, DUT Chancellor; DUT SRC President Zama Mncube and DUT SRC Secretary General, Yoliswa Manele, as well as senior and executive staff members of the University.

Dr Volmink, who has extensive experience in the education sector, took over the reins of leadership from Professor Ahmed Bawa (now Universities South Africa CEO) following his (Prof Bawa) unexpected resignation from office shortly after the renewal of his second term as Vice-Chancellor and Principal. Dr Volmink’s acting tenure at the University was five months and will be followed by that of Professor Thandwa Mthembu who is currently Vice-Chancellor and Principal of the Central University of Technology, Free State.

“One of the fears that we had when Prof Bawa left was what would happen to the University,” said Professor Theo Andrew, DUT Deputy Vice-Chancellor: Operations. “However, it was great having you (Dr Volmink) at the helm of the University for the last couple of months. You’ve held things together. Thank you for your wise input on the DUT Council as well,” he said.

Mncube said one of the things that the SRC would remember about Dr Volmink is his ability to honour his commitments, also praising him for “taking the SRC seriously”. “The only time I’ve heard Dr Volmink raise his voice is when people were not honouring their commitment. Every time an issue arises, he (Dr Volmink) would take it up with the SRC to get its view. Please don’t change,” urged Mncube, who added that she hopes Dr Volmink will continue to add his wisdom to future leadership endeavours by the student body.

Speaking on behalf of the DUT Council, Madinane said he admired Dr Volmink “quiet leadership” which he demonstrated during his interactions with the Council as interim VC. Madinane explained “quiet leadership” as the ability to lead in front and from behind. “I’d like to thank you for your sacrifices, contributions and for taking on this challenge during a difficult time in our sector,” he said.

Dr Rene Smith, Arts and Design Faculty Executive Dean, expressed gratitude to Dr Volmink for his acknowledgment of female managers at the University.

Delivering his farewell message, Dr Volmink said while he would remain a member of the University Council, he was leaving his role as VC with a sad heart. Placing the spotlight on good, courageous leadership; Dr Volmink said leadership is everyone’s business and leadership excellence is a goal that must be constantly strived upon. “Leaders are there to help people overcome their fears, find their courage and help communities live into their challenges and dreams, and that is what we must strive for as leaders. Serving as the DUT Vice-Chancellor and Principal was a wonderful opportunity. Time is not measured by years but by moments. I may not remember many years of my life, but I will remember this moment. Thank you for giving me new meaning in this late stage of my life,” said Dr Volmink.

– Sinegugu Ndlovu

Pictured: A bittersweet moment as Wiseman Madinane, DUT Council Chair (left), and Judge Vuka Tshabalala (far right), DUT Chancellor, offer a farewell gift on behalf of the University to Dr John Volmink (middle) who served as acting Vice-Chancellor at DUT for the last five months.