The University of Johannesburg officially launched its transformative digital learning initiative – UJ Digital.
The platform positions the institution as Africa’s leader in industry-relevant, flexible, and accessible online education. This strategic initiative aligns with UJ’s 2035 Strategic Plan, addressing the growing demand for innovative learning solutions that empower learners across the continent and beyond.
MEC members, students, and staff attended the launch, which took place on Wednesday, 21 May 2025, at the Sanlam Auditorium.
The foyer exhibition area had faculties displaying the various programmes on offer, with demonstration models and innovative projects.
Programme Director Professor Musawenkosi Saurombe kept the audience energised between the interactive segments that highlighted UJ’s embrace of technology for the future.
These included musical sets from the multi-award-winning UJ Choir and a special performance from a violinist dressed in an LED dress flashing the words UJ Digital.
The audience became part of the performance by wearing flashing wristbands, turning the performance into an interactive and multicoloured visual experience.
UJ Arts and Culture put together a stage presentation with students merging into the digital screen on stage- literally experiencing UJ Digital.
A video celebrating UJ over the years was played before Vice-Chancellor and Principal Professor Letlhokwa Mpedi took to the stage to digitally unveil the online initiative.
Empowering future-ready learners with accessible, industry-focused programmes
“UJ Digital is not just an alternative, it is an important avenue for anyone seeking accessibility and flexibility. It breaks down barriers, accommodates diverse learners and future proofs our approach to education. By investing in and promoting online education as a supplement to traditional contact teaching, we are opening the doors to learning opportunities for all and empowering individuals and communities to thrive in the world of tomorrow.”
It took two years, one month and 21 days to realise the dream of online learning from UJ.
Mr Buti Manamela, Deputy Minister of Higher Education and Training sent a congratulatory message: “Congratulations on this dual achievement. Firstly, as you celebrate 20 years, and secondly, the launch of the digital online learning platform. The UJ is placing itself not only as a leading university on the continent but also in the world. We want to see other institutions also following in this great start of building a university that is placing hybrid learning on top of its agenda, but also maintaining the principles of how a university should be run.”
UJ Chancellor, Dr Phumzile Mlambo-Ngcuka, reflected on the importance of the initiative.
“I remember when we were still dreaming about having a parallel institution that reaches out to many more young people and older people like me who want to continue studying. In South Africa, the number of people who have degrees are less than 10%, which creates a problem and a lot of pressure for us to up our game. Now we can offer education anytime and anywhere.”
She added that reimagining education was at the forefront of UJ’s vision.
“Reimagining universities is essential. There is so much we can do, we are creating a new world. This is exciting and to see it happen in my own university is a dream come true,” she said.
Through this initiative, UJ reaffirms its commitment to impact, innovation, inclusivity, and integrity, ensuring that learners from diverse backgrounds can access transformative, high-quality education that aligns with industry needs and global standards.
For more information about the UJ Digital Initiative and its upcoming programmes, please visit: www.ujdigital.uj.ac.za.
