I'm Mashitishi B. Phurutsi

Proudly known as Mr Mash-IT

A tech-driven educator, digital innovator, and passionate advocate for transforming education in historically disadvantaged communities. With 13 years at TUT's Faculty of ICT and a mission to make learning vibrant and fashionable.

0 Years at TUT
0 Students Empowered
0 Endorsements
Mashitishi B. Phurutsi - Professional Photo

Gallary

Capturing Moments, Sharing Stories

Kickoff Event 2023

Kickoff Event

Launched our project with an amazing team in 2023!

Community Outreach

Graduation Day

Engaged with local communities of Mbombela Campus to spread our mission.

Innovation Hackathon

Innovation Hackathon

Collaborated with students and industry leaders to innovate solutions.

Graduation Day

TVH 2024

Celebrating our achievements with the community of Tshwane.

Graduation Day

Moving From Good to Great

Celebrating our achievements as roommates while we were doing undergraduate to lecturing.

Graduation Day

Graduation Day

Engaged in the celebration of Emalhleni Campus Graduation Day.

Graduation Day

SA Innovation Summit

Celebrating our achievements with the community.

Graduation Day

Final TVH 2024 Presentations

Celebrating our achievements of TVH with the City Of Tshwane.

Graduation Day

2024 MAISH

Hosting 2024 MAISH AI Competition at University of Mpumalanga.

Graduation Day

Tshwane University of Technology Councilors

Celebrating our achievements with the community Tshwane University of Technology.

Graduation Day

Graduation Day

Engaged in the celebration of Pretoria Campus Graduation Day.

Graduation Day

First Year and Foundation Unit Team

The great team behind all the great initiatives at the first year and foundation unit.

My Mission

Building bridges between academia, industry, and communities

Educational Innovation

Transforming higher education through technology and innovative teaching methods that prepare students for the 4IR+ revolution.

Community Engagement

Empowering historically disadvantaged communities through accessible technology education and digital literacy programs.

Innovation Leadership

Leading hackathons and innovation programs that connect students with real-world challenges and industry solutions.

Mashitishi Phurutsi Political Promise

Enable Access to Research Funding - I will advocate for broader access to staff research L-Accounts, eradicating the limitations in using the funds for producing credible impactful scholarship.

Strengthen Support for Senior Lecture Equivalents (SLEs) - By leveraging third-stream income, I will push for increased investment in SLE posts recognising excellence, retaining talent, and enabling growth in both teaching and research by employing more academics and unlocking promotions.

Champion an “Academics First”University Culture - I will promote a university ethos where academic work drives institutional direction where policy, resourcing, and leadership decisions place scholarship, pedagogy, and innovation at the core.

Support the Establishment of Sekhukhune Campus - I will back the strategic growth of the Sekhukhune Campus, bringing quality higher education closer to underserved communities, and creating new opportunities for academic and student advancement.

Recent Endorsements

What supporters are saying

Michael Sibanda

"His a grate leader"

Michael Sibanda Feb 23, 2026
017ckw

"48dubt"

017ckw Feb 21, 2026
Ms Kelebogile Rakhudu

"I’ve known and worked with Mr. Mashitishi Phurutsi for over 18 years, from our time on the Residence Committee to recent collaborations on the HackerThon. He is a principled, innovative, and people-centred leader who consistently delivers with integrity and excellence. Highly emphatical and compassionate, he continues to lead authentically and professionally. Mashitishi’s commitment to collaboration, fairness, and institutional growth makes him an outstanding candidate for Non-Academic Member of the TUT Senate. I wholeheartedly endorse him."

Ms Kelebogile Rakhudu Oct 30, 2025
PA

"their strong vision and the spirit of togetherness earns them my vote"

Paballo Armstrong Oct 30, 2025
TV

"Dear Mr. Mash IT, I admire your passion and truly believe that you are destined for greatness. You have my wholehearted endorsement. May God bless you on your journey ahead. Best regards, Tanja van der Merwe"

Tanja van der Merwe Oct 30, 2025
MT

"I give my full unreserved endorsement to Mr Mashitishi Phurutsi. In my 20 years of knowing and working with him I can say he is the epitome of competence, consistency, character and courage. Endorse and be lead with conviction."

Mr Thathizwe Mahlangu Oct 29, 2025
DH

"A visionary leader"

Dr Happiness Oct 29, 2025
GN

"A good leader."

Given Nhlapo Oct 29, 2025
L

"Selfless leader with passion to advance collective interests."

Lloyd Oct 29, 2025
RN

"Leadership that one"

Rhulani Nicholas Nkuna Oct 29, 2025
TO

"I endorse Mr Phurutsi for TUT COUNCIL"

Tiyiselani Oupa Mdumela Oct 29, 2025
LK

"I endorse Mashitishi because his vision for higher education governance is rooted in accountability, inclusivity, and student-focused transformation. His leadership embodies the kind of integrity and innovation our institutions need to progress sustainably."

Lebone Karabelo Oct 29, 2025
TA

"Mr Mash is an amazing leader! Always motivating and supporting us to reach our full potential. Your guidance and encouragement mean a lot to us. Thank you for creating a positive work environment. You're the best!"

Thapelo Aphane Oct 29, 2025
CP

"I endorse Mr Phuritsi as my candidate as I have a first hand experience working with him. I was a member of that council because of him."

Calvin Phiri Oct 29, 2025
Arnold Nkuna

"He has shown leadership capabilities, provided opportunities to those who were in need and more than anything, he continued to make the Faculty that he serves greater by advocating for students and graduates"

Arnold Nkuna Oct 29, 2025
IR Ntsoane

"He is a good manager and a professional team player"

IR Ntsoane Oct 29, 2025
KC

"In support comrade Phurutsi"

Keoagile Clementine Seane Kobedi Oct 29, 2025
OP

"You action leadership."

owolawi Pius Adewale Oct 29, 2025
DT

"I support your vision for transforming our institution into a smarter, stronger higher-education system that unites academic excellence with real community impact."

Dr Tonderai Muchenje Oct 29, 2025
SM

"Leaders are born. Mr Mash is the best leader. He leads with calmness, dedication and respect."

Sibongile Malinga Oct 28, 2025
SM

"Passion for growth and development"

Sello Motla Oct 28, 2025
CK

"I support him for his tenacity and passion to serve all."

Caroline K Oct 28, 2025
PD

"Thank you for representing the academics!!!"

Prof Dee Khosa Oct 28, 2025
IA

"Creating a collaborative and engaging environment is vital and I believe in working together we can achieve this goal."

Irene Abraham-Abraham-Samgeorge Oct 26, 2025
LL

"I believe in his leadership and commitment."

Livhuwani Levy Ndou Oct 24, 2025
R

"A very young lad and dedicated with vibrant mind. Educationally driven and has assisted a lot of young people in achieving their learning goals"

Roy Oct 24, 2025
MM

"We era in era where the country is hungry for influx of young academics in different spheres. Therefore endorse"

Mokonyana Mabelane Oct 24, 2025
TR

"Is a seasoned young professional and i believe young academics should be empowered for the future of our country"

Tshepho Raseasaala Oct 24, 2025
TM

"Mr. Phurutsi, has consistently advocated for making education “fashionable” in historically disadvantaged communities. This is more than a slogan—it reflects a deep commitment to bridging the digital and educational divide in South Africa and beyond. His work at TUT, particularly as Unit Manager for the ICT First Year and Foundation Unit, demonstrates his dedication to student success and foundational support. He embodies the principles of collaborative governance. His leadership style resonates with modern governance models that prioritize shared decision-making, stakeholder engagement, and institutional agility—qualities essential in navigating the complexities of today’s higher education landscape."

Tlou Mashalane Oct 24, 2025
SG

"History has proven itself that Mr Mash has captured the interests of the young people well, he deserves to keep doing a great job."

Sifiso Given Mabena Oct 24, 2025
Kanegelo Phuduhudu

"His experience in leading his department to grateness even in his relatively younger age, his people skill in uplifting others, including the experience in organizing and chairing various portfolios... He is a relavant person to continue leading us in this position."

Kanegelo Phuduhudu Oct 24, 2025
TC

"I am delighted to write this letter in strong support of Phurutsi's for a position on the Non-Senate academic"

Thiba Colin Oct 24, 2025
MN

"Solid leader with a very strong educational background"

Mpho Ncube Oct 23, 2025
Quintin Magaseng

"Mr. Mashitishi Phurutsi, is a smarter leader who have a thorough understanding of institutional governance structures and policies and consistently demonstrates strategic insights, and collaborative spirit. This qualities make him a fit candidate for this role"

Quintin Magaseng Oct 23, 2025
MS

"I endorse Mashitishi Phurutsi for his exceptional vision and leadership in higher education governance. As a former Unit Manager, Mashitishi has consistently demonstrated a deep commitment to student success and institutional excellence. His initiatives, including the launch of Hackathons, the Informatics Community Engagement Programme, and mentorship and tutoring recruitment and naturing reflect a practical yet visionary approach to academic leadership. By leading student orientations and recruiting dedicated mentors and tutors, he has fostered a culture of collaboration, innovation, and inclusivity that strengthens both learning outcomes and community engagement. Mashitishi’s leadership embodies the principles of progressive governance and transformative education."

Madimetja Simon Sekele Oct 23, 2025
NC

"It is a privilege to acknowledge the exceptional leadership of our Unit Manager, a true visionary and the driving force behind innovation within the Faculty of ICT. Often referred to as “the Father of Hackathons,” he has not only inspired a culture of creativity and collaboration among students, but has also established sustainable pathways that bridge the gap between academia and industry through the Informatics Community Engagement Project (ICEP). He continues to lead with vision, purpose, and passion proving that education, when aligned with industry and community needs, becomes a powerful tool for transformation. Truly, he is not just a Unit Manager, but a catalyst for change and a champion of innovation."

Nkulumo Cry Nkuna Oct 23, 2025
TM

"Mash's mission to build bridges between academia, industry, and communities is vital for education in the 4th industrial revolution. Mash has already demonstrated his passion regarding this by starting programmes such as Tshwane Varsity Hackathorn, ICEP, etc."

Tshegofatso Manakana Oct 23, 2025
L

"Simply the best..."

Lindavionary Oct 23, 2025
JK

"He is a visionary leader"

Janvier Kamanzi Oct 23, 2025
TM

"Visionary man"

Tshegofatso Madike Oct 23, 2025
DN

"I endorse Mash because he is passionate and visionary leader."

Dolly Nxumalo Oct 23, 2025
M

"He is a man of vision and integrity, he is keen in unraveling somewhat hidden complicated issues of students who are academically challenged and that he could be placed into a position importance. He empowered many students academically and otherwise in shaping their careers without a hustle and that on it own demonstrated his ability to leadership."

Mabelane Oct 23, 2025
TM

"I have experienced hands on his passion, desire and drive towards education and the governance thereof. Great leadership skills, willing to learn and empower others."

Tokelo Mahanke Oct 23, 2025
Jack Ntlhamu

"Mashitishi is very passionate about IT and academics. He always sought to bring main stream industry into the faculty to ensure that there is a fusion between current IT corporate trends and the university's offering. Not only only is he a leader, now but he has always played a great role in leadership during our undergrad days and I believe he is an asset that the council needs and would benefit immensely from,"

Jack Ntlhamu Oct 23, 2025
DM

"He is a living testimony of how I leader should be, very knowledgeable and dedicated to his calling."

David Manala Oct 22, 2025
MG

"I know and have seen your dedication and have no doubt you will pull this off"

Mary Gondwe Oct 22, 2025
SC

"He is a visionary and his leadership skills says it all."

Siyabonga Cele Oct 22, 2025
Lydia Hlongwane

"I am endorsing Mashitishi B. Phurutsi for the position of Senate Representative at Tshwane University of Technology. I had the privilege of meeting him during his tenure as Chairperson of the Residence Committee at Kollegehof Mixed Residence. During that time, I witnessed his exceptional leadership, professionalism, and commitment to student welfare. Mashitishi was not only approachable and solution-driven but also demonstrated integrity and fairness in addressing student concerns. He consistently showed strong communication skills, a genuine passion for student development, and the ability to unite people from diverse backgrounds around shared goals. I believe his leadership experience, sense of responsibility, and dedication to academic excellence make him a strong candidate to represent students effectively within the university’s Senate. His proven track record of service assures me that he will continue to act in the best interest of all students at TUT."

Lydia Hlongwane Oct 22, 2025
AM

"When we speak of a visionary who can transform ideas into impactful action, we speak of Mr. Mash. Having worked with him, I can confidently say his dedication and results are truly remarkable. He is dependable, driven, and delivers excellence in everything he does."

Ayanda Mnisi Oct 22, 2025
L

"We want better future for our children and best education in our societies."

Lesedi Oct 22, 2025
Fhatuwani Netshifhefhe

"If there is one man who is consistent in the larger development of tech students and tech enthusiasts is Mash. An executer of a clear vision and goal!!"

Fhatuwani Netshifhefhe Oct 22, 2025
ML

"I always respected Mash for the good work he is doing"

Marlo Liebenberg Oct 22, 2025
KS

"He is a visionary, and he truly stands by the ideals he expresses."

Kgaogelo Sehlakwane Tshehla Oct 22, 2025
VM

"Phurutsi is a highly progressive leader. His achievements are remarkable."

Vuyisile Memani Oct 21, 2025
MP

"The Candidate by the Name of Mashitishi Phurutsi has been supportive towards our Academics over the years to us Students, we therefore have no shame to associate ourselves with the name at hand."

MASHILA PHIHLELA Oct 21, 2025
F

"We are Mash and Mash is us!!"

Fifiza Oct 21, 2025
Glen Moepi

"Having worked under Mr. Mash-IT's leadership, I can attest to the fact that he always has the best interest of the staff, students and TUT at large. He is a visionary, always findndd ways to cut any red tapes that disadvantages staff and students. Through his engagements, techno initiatives and collaborative, many students and staff were empowered with rewarding and fulfilling opportunitues, myself included. I fully endorse him, without reservations and I trust that he is for the greater good of Tut."

Glen Moepi Oct 20, 2025
KM

"Mr Mash is a man humble in leadership, with high standards for the work he is doing. I endorse Mr Mash and his vision to transform, educate and innovate the higher education council."

Kamogelo Matlaba Oct 20, 2025
PT

"He is worth being endorsed, and he shall prove himself right."

Phuti Teffu Oct 20, 2025
TR

"Visionary leader"

Teboho Rakoma Aug 24, 2025
T

"Refined timber and seasoned leader and academic scholar."

Tshegofatso Aug 24, 2025
KL

"Following Mr Phurutsi and seeing the level of students and their engagement with their subject matter in and out of the lecturer room reveals that his influence and mentorship is not just academic deep. He truly lives by his standards of community engagement and enhancing the digital literacy of the underserved community which will roll on and create future focused individuals. Not just graduates from university."

Khotso Letsoalo Aug 21, 2025
NM

"Mr Mash founded ICEP which helped me gain industry experience and for this i will forever endorse him."

Nokuthula Mchunu Aug 21, 2025
TM

"I fully believe in Mr Mash because of his proven leadership and his abilty to care and support students during their time of struggles and success. His vision is a true example of what TUT staff should be all about."

Thamsanqa Mampa Aug 21, 2025
C

"This is a visionary"

Cool Aug 19, 2025
VL

"I endorse Mash for his great leadership."

Virginia L Mokele Aug 1, 2025
MM

"I endorse Mr Phurutsi, as he has an am impeccable reputation."

Molefe Maleka Aug 1, 2025
LM

"I endorse Mr Mashitishi Phurutsi"

Lizzy Monyatsi Jul 31, 2025
IM

"He is a conscious & present academic leader."

Ingrid Mokgobu Jul 31, 2025
MK

"Great leader"

Malesela Kekana Jul 31, 2025
RM

"He will provide a strong academic voice"

Refilwe Mogase Jul 31, 2025
MF

"YES I FULLY ENDORSE MASHITISHI PHURUTSI"

Mulat F. Zerihun Jul 31, 2025
KM

"My leader in academic trailblazers"

KN motubatse Jul 31, 2025
VB

"I support the vision!!!!"

Vathiswa Booi Jul 31, 2025
I

"Mash la Mash"

Ikgopoleng Jul 31, 2025
DL

"I highly endorse Mr Mash B. Phurutsi for his outstanding professionalism, dedication, and expertise. It’s been a privilege to work with him, and I truly admire his commitment and positive impact on every project."

Dr. Lerato Motlalepula Mpui Jun 13, 2025

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