The Faculty of Applied Sciences hosted its third Technical Staff Engagement Workshop on 5 November 2026 at Coastlands Umhlanga Hotel, bringing together laboratory technicians, technical staff and Heads of Departments for a day of reflection, knowledge-sharing and discussions on strengthening technical support services across the Faculty.
Professor Tukayi Kudanga.
The workshop was officially opened by Professor Tukayi Kudanga, who welcomed attendees and set the tone for the day’s engagements. It provided a platform for technical staff to reflect on their achievements and challenges during 2026, share experiences and identify ways to improve laboratory operations and technical management.
The programme focused on professional development, networking and the exchange of knowledge and best practices. It also allowed technical staff to engage with departmental leadership and discuss experiences from their respective working environments.
As part of the morning programme, Heads of Departments presented overviews of their departmental laboratories, highlighting key initiatives, activities and achievements during 2026. The presentations provided insight into the work taking place across the Faculty, as well as developments in laboratory operations and areas requiring further attention.
The workshop also provided an opportunity for technical staff to raise operational challenges affecting their laboratories. Working in groups, participants identified key concerns and selected representatives to present these to the broader gathering. Professor Feroz Swalaha, together with Heads of Departments and other colleagues, facilitated the discussions, encouraging participants to consider possible solutions and practical ways forward.
An engagement with representatives from Procurement, Finance and Real Estate Management further allowed technical staff to raise questions and seek clarity on matters affecting their daily responsibilities. Discussions covered laboratory maintenance, petty cash and procurement processes, among other operational issues. The session highlighted the importance of effective communication and cooperation between technical teams and the University’s support departments.
The discussions reinforced the important role technical staff play in supporting the Faculty’s teaching, learning and research activities. Well-maintained and effectively managed laboratories are essential for practical learning, scientific investigation and research. Ensuring that technical teams have the necessary support, resources and opportunities to raise operational concerns is therefore vital to the effective functioning of the Faculty.
The third Technical Staff Engagement Workshop reflects the Faculty of Applied Sciences’ commitment to continuous improvement, professional development and an inclusive working environment. By bringing technical staff and departmental leadership together, the initiative creates an opportunity for shared learning, constructive engagement and collective efforts to address operational challenges.
Photo credit: Nompumelelo Mpungose
Nompumelelo Mpungose
