Innovation, collaboration, and excellence took centre stage in Thohoyandou this week as the University of Venda (UNIVEN) proudly hosted the 32nd Annual Conference of the Southern African Association for Institutional Research (SAAIR) at the scenic Kalahari Waterfront in Limpopo. This prestigious gathering has drawn higher education leaders, scholars, and thought pioneers from across Africa and beyond, converging under the compelling theme: “Towards Excellence: Enhancing Funding Pathways and Student Outcomes through Human-Centric AI, Impactful Research, and Operational Intelligence.” With global thought leaders igniting bold conversations about the future of higher education in a rapidly evolving world, the conference marks a pivotal moment for advancing institutional research across the region.
Prof Bernard Nthambeleni
In his welcoming address, on Wednesday, 29 October 2025, UNIVEN Vice-Chancellor and Princi-pal, Professor Bernard Nthambeleni, expressed deep pride in hosting this influential conference, describing it as a celebration of innovation, collaboration, and transformative education. “This gathering is more than just an annual event,” he emphasised. “It is a reflection of our shared commitment to shape the future of higher education through creativity, partnership, and a col-lective pursuit of excellence.”
This year, SAAIR achieved another significant milestone, attracting over 140 delegates to the con-ference. The participants represented a diverse range of institutions and perspectives, including delegates from 25 South African public universities, four international universities, ten private institutions, and three government entities.
Addressing the fast-changing higher education landscape, Professor Nthambeleni urged institu-tions to embrace technology while keeping humanity at the centre of transformation. “Artificial intelligence must serve universities for humanity, not the other way around,” he said, highlighting the importance of ethical, inclusive, and human-focused technological innovation. He noted that while universities are grappling with new funding models, digital transformation, and evolving so-cietal expectations, these challenges also present opportunities for renewed innovation, collab-oration, and leadership. “Within these challenges lies a powerful opportunity to lead with vision, innovate with courage, and act with compassion,” he remarked.
Reflecting on UNIVEN’s institutional ethos, Professor Nthambeleni reaffirmed the University’s commitment to transformative education and community engagement. “Our institution stands as a testament to the transformative power of education,” he said. “Universities must serve as catalysts for social change, building inclusive societies and driving national and global devel-opment.” He emphasised the need for higher education institutions to play an active role in addressing societal challenges, including economic inequality, environmental threats, and the ethical use of artificial intelligence. “As nations confront complex global challenges, universities must remain at the forefront, anchoring innovation, nurturing critical thought, and empowering communities,” he added.
Throughout the conference, participants are engaging in keynote sessions, panel discussions, parallel sessions for presentations, and collaborative workshops designed to explore emerging strategies for enhancing institutional effectiveness and student success. Professor Nthambeleni encouraged delegates to share bold ideas, challenge assumptions, and form partnerships that will shape the future of higher education. “This conference is a platform for reflection, dialogue, and strategic engagement,” he said. “Let us reaffirm our shared commitment to knowledge cre-ation, innovation, and excellence that serve humanity.”
He extended gratitude to the SAAIR Executive Committee, the UNIVEN Organising Team, UNIVEN staff, the sponsors and partners whose collective efforts made the conference possible. Dele-gates were also invited to an evening of cultural celebration and networking at the Gala Dinner on 29 October at Porche-Villa Hotel, and also the Community Outreach programme on 30 Oc-tober at the Tshakhuma Fruit and Vegetable Market, marking another highlight in this dynamic week of intellectual exchange and collaboration.
In the picture: The University of Venda Vice-Chancellor and Principal, Prof Bernard Nthambeleni (4th from left), and the SAAIR President, Ms Elizabeth Booi (5th from Right) pose for a photo with some of UNIVEN Senior Management and SAAIR Exco
In the Picture: UNIVEN Organising Committee with SAAIR Exco and UNIVEN Senior Management
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Department Marketing, Branding and Communication
University of Venda
Tel: 082 868 2218 / 082 868 1811
