“This agenda will remain evident in all aspects relating to the sector. It includes NSFAS, university management approaches and political deployments in terms of Ministers,” explains Tiego, who is also chairperson of the Council’s Transformation Oversight Committee.

Tiego, who was elected deputy chairperson at the Council meeting of 20 September 2018, adds that as a collective, Council is uniquely poised to further the transformational agenda within the NWU’s strategy.

A man wearing many hats

Tiego wears many professional hats, the latest being that of deputy chairperson of Council. He was appointed as Council member by Higher Education and Training Minister Naledi Pandor for a three-year term, from 2017 to 2020.

As a proud alumnus of the former University of North West in Mahikeng, Tiego holds a BCom degree. He is currently the executive director of Henjen Petroleum (Pty) Ltd, which is affiliated to Engen, a global energy company.

Ready to serve

Tiego, who serves on several high-level NWU committees, says his appointment as a Council member signals a continuation of great possibilities. It also confirms that God is faithful and forever at his side. “I live by the firm believe that I can do everything through Christ who strengthens me,” says Tiego.

“To serve in the Council Executive Committee means greater responsibility, accountability, transparency and the opportunity to serve in a team that is passionate about South Africa, our university and its stakeholders.”

Matters in the spotlight

Tiego says that in addition to the South African transformational agenda, student funding is also in the spotlight, representing a critical challenge.

In terms of university councils, a fair gender balance is of cardinal importance too, as is ensuring that the composition of these structures reflects the demographics of South Africa.

Fairness is part of Tiego’s outlook, and so is the desire to make a positive difference. With transformation, equity and social justice high on the agenda at the NWU, he is in the right place at the right time.