Dube-Ncube to Open Major Infrastructure Projects at University of Venda

Government Invests in Modernising South Africa's Public University System

The Deputy Minister of Higher Education and Training, Dr Nomusa Dube-Ncube, will officiate the opening of several major infrastructure developments at the University of Venda (UNIVEN) in Thohoyandou, Limpopo.

Billions Invested to Modernise Higher Education

The Infrastructure and Efficiency Grant (IEG) programme, introduced in 2007/08, has been one of government's most critical tools for restoring equity in the higher education system.

• The IEG programme has channelled a combined R33.088 billion to 24 public universities over six cycles.
• UNIVEN has received R1.367 billion, representing 4.13% of the national allocation.

The Sibusiso Bengu Development Programme (SB-DP) also supports the university, with additional resources contributed from the university's own budget.

New Facilities Strengthen UNIVEN's Academic and Research Capabilities

The official opening marks the completion of several high-impact infrastructure projects that will significantly enhance student access, academic delivery and institutional efficiency.

• Faculty of Health Sciences Building: A state-of-the-art facility designed to produce more healthcare professionals to serve rural communities.
• Punda Maria Road and Bridge Project: A crucial upgrade to campus mobility, safety and access, improving transport flow for students, staff and visitors.
• Main Administration Building: A modernised hub for governance, student services and institutional operations.
• Advanced Nursing Science Simulation Building: Equipped with cutting-edge simulation technology to train nurses in real-world scenarios.

Strengthening HDIs for a Future-Ready Higher Education System

Dr Dube-Ncube will meet with UNIVEN leadership to discuss strategies for long-term partnerships aimed at building a smart, accessible and future-ready institution.

Government has stressed that infrastructure improvement must go hand-in-hand with enhanced teaching capacity, digital readiness, research support and student well-being.

The developments at UNIVEN represent tangible evidence of progress in modernising the higher education system and ensuring that universities serving historically marginalised communities are equipped for the future.