Gerrit Bester
September 19 marked a significant milestone in the history of the Faculty of Arts and Design at the Tshwane University of Technology (TUT).
The first sod was turned on the Arts Campus for the construction of the motion picture production studios, which will serve as the permanent home for the Faculty’s Motion Picture Production programme.
This building will be the first bespoke educational facility built by a university for Motion Picture Production training in South Africa. It will feature a 200-seat cinema, four computer laboratories, two sound stages, staff offices and several editing and sound suites.
As TUT solidifies its place in the South African higher education landscape, this facility will symbolise not just a physical home for the Motion Picture Production programme but the culmination of decades of dedication and creativity.
Speaking at the event, Professor Nalini Moodley, Executive Dean of the Faculty of Arts and Design, reflected on the journey to this milestone, describing it as “the beginning of the end of the Film School drama.” She noted that ten years ago, Film students –who were housed at Premos adjacent to the Pretoria Campus – demanded to move to the Arts Campus, even if it meant being taught under trees. “It is their power and voice that led to this moment, and it is important that we listen to them and create inclusive spaces for them.”
Moodley was part of a four-member executive management team that participated in the ceremonial sod-turning. The team also included Professor Tinyiko Maluleke, Vice-Chancellor and Principal; Professor Ingrid Mokgobu, Pretoria Campus Rector; and Dr Nkgatho Tlale, Deputy Vice-Chancellor: Operations.
Maluleke stated that it is a great day in the history of TUT, adding that history consists of a series of beginnings and endings, while simultaneously suggesting that there should be more beginnings. “It is not how you start, but how you finish. I am confident that this start will finish well.”
Tlale added that the project would not be possible without the support of the Department of Higher Education and Training and National Treasury, represented at the event. He committed to overseeing the timely completion of the project.
Dumisani Mzangwa from Mzamasi Solutions, the principal agents, stated that the multimillion Rand building, is expected to be completed by August of next year. The contractor is Urban Plan.
A proud Dr Herman Botes, Head of the Department of Visual Communication, remarked that the Film Programme, over its impressive 53-year history, has been much like a nomad. “Constantly on the move, adapting and evolving, it has found temporary homes in various locations but has always remained steadfast in its mission to train, inspire and foster the filmmakers of tomorrow.
“Much like the nomads of history who traversed landscapes in search of fertile ground, our programme has continually relocated, moving between faculties, departments and campuses.”
“This journey has instilled resilience, adaptability and a deep connection with diverse communities – qualities that mirror the rich tapestry of South African cinema itself. The ability to adjust and thrive in new environments has shaped our programme's identity, and it is a trait we proudly pass on to our students,” he added.