Dear UJ community,

As we build on our 20-year legacy of innovation and societal impact, UJ continues to strengthen its influence beyond borders. Our global collaborations remain central to amplifying Africa’s voice in knowledge creation, positioning our University as a bridge between African innovation and the world. Through strategic partnerships, joint research, and cross-border learning, UJ has fostered the exchange of ideas and expertise that drive shared progress in science, technology, and education, further extending our global impact.

This progress is made possible through the steadfast dedication of our staff and students. Your contributions, from teaching and research to community engagement and administration, shape the very foundation of our University’s excellence. I extend my appreciation to every member of our UJ community. Your passion, resilience, and commitment embody the spirit of our University and continue to define what makes UJ truly exceptional.

Expanding UJ’s international footprint

In a noteworthy step towards deepening our global partnerships, this week, UJ hosted a high-level delegation from Shandong University (SDU) and the Ministry of Education of the People’s Republic of China. The engagements culminated in the signing of a renewed Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between UJ and SDU and the unveiling of the SDU-UJ China–South Africa Joint Laboratory for Green Energy and Resources. This is another milestone initiative that will advance joint research and innovation in sustainable technologies. Our discussions also explored opportunities for expanding academic exchange, collaborative research, and global learning partnerships, reinforcing UJ’s growing presence through partnerships across Asia. The visit by Vice Minister of Education Mr Xiong Sihao and SDU Vice President Professor Fan Yi marks another stride in UJ’s strategy to expand its international footprint through impactful partnerships that advance knowledge creation, innovation, and cross-cultural exchange.

Building on this momentum, I am honoured to be invited to deliver a keynote address at the United Nations University (UNU) Macau AI Conference 2025, under the theme “AI for Humanity: Building an Equitable Digital Future.” Scheduled for 23–24 October 2025 in Macau SAR, China, this year’s conference holds particular significance as it coincides with the 80th anniversary of the United Nations and the 50th anniversary of UNU.

The conference will explore three key pillars: translating AI research into actionable insights across disciplines; promoting inclusiveness and digital equity for the Global South; and fostering multi-stakeholder collaboration to drive innovative, interdisciplinary solutions. The UNU Macau AI Conference convenes leaders across the Global North and South, uniting governments, business, academia, and civil society, to shape a more equitable and impactful digital future.

UJ and Zhejiang University Collaboration

I am pleased to share that UJ has been selected as one of only four universities globally to serve as a repository for the Comprehensive Collection of Ancient Chinese Paintings, a cultural donation valued at R2.5 million from Zhejiang University in Hangzhou, China. This deepens Africa–China cultural and academic ties, offering UJ scholars and students access to thousands of high-quality reproductions spanning a millennium of Chinese artistic heritage. The collection enriches UJ’s research and teaching resources and strengthens cross-cultural understanding and dialogue between our regions. Recognised among the top 50 universities worldwide, Zhejiang University’s collaboration with UJ demonstrates growing trust in our University’s leadership in the Africa–China scholarship.

The 5th Annual Eric Molobi Memorial Lecture

This week, we also hosted the 5th Annual Eric Molobi Memorial Lecture, which complements our global engagement by emphasising the transformative power of education. The lecture honours the enduring legacy of Eric Molobi, a visionary leader, education activist, and UJ Honorary Professor, who dedicated his life to advancing community development and educational equity in South Africa.

This year’s lecture was delivered by Prof Joel Samoff, Senior Research Associate in UJ’s Faculty of Education, retired Professor at Stanford University, and Distinguished Scholar of Education and International Development. In his thought-provoking address, “Innovation: Essential, Difficult, and Disruptive,” Prof Samoff explored how education can serve as a transformative force for societal progress, particularly across the African continent. By bringing together scholars, education leaders, and students, the event highlighted innovation as a catalyst for change, echoing UJ’s ongoing commitment to knowledge creation, research, and community empowerment through education. Click here, to read more about this.

Celebrating a decade of impactful collaboration with the South African Medical Research Council

Reflecting on UJ’s enduring commitment to advancing health research and community wellbeing, we mark the conclusion of a transformative chapter in our partnership with the South African Medical Research Council (SAMRC). For more than a decade, our Faculty of Health Sciences, through its Department of Environmental Health, has worked closely with the SAMRC to establish innovative approaches that have reshaped the landscape of environmental health research in South Africa. This collaboration not only steered the HEAD study, which is widely recognised as a game changer in the field, but also redefined how environmental research engages with communities, providing a blueprint for post-apartheid scientific inquiry and public health advancement.

Through this partnership, countless Environmental Health practitioners have been developed, students supported through vital funding, and invaluable skills transferred to the next generation of researchers. I am grateful to Prof André Swart, former Executive Dean of the Faculty of Health Sciences and later Chief Operating Officer, whose visionary leadership helped forge and sustain this impactful relationship.

While we bid farewell to this particular collaboration, our journey with the SAMRC continues. UJ remains home to the SAMRC/UJ Pan African Centre for Epidemics Research (PACER), an Extramural Research Unit dedicated to advancing epidemic preparedness and response across the continent. I look forward to deepening our shared pursuit of research excellence and societal impact with Prof Ntobeko Ntusi and his team at the SAMRC.

Achievements that inspire

Our commitment to nurturing talent and driving innovation continues to yield remarkable results. This week, we celebrate the exceptional accomplishments of our staff and students, whose dedication and ingenuity are shaping the future across industries and borders.

Among the standout achievements, Ms Mmatshepho Ngwenya, Senior Lecturer in the Department of Accountancy, has been named a finalist in the 2025 SAICA Top-35-under-35 Awards, recognising young Chartered Accountants who are redefining the profession and contributing to societal progress. Further highlighting UJ’s impact in the accounting field, alumna Ms Ntebaleng Twala clinched the Overall Winner title in this year’s competition. Fellow alumna Ms Mpho Deborah Makungo received the SAICA Trainee Trailblazer Award for Resilience and Wellness.

Our pursuit of innovation also extends into the realm of digital learning. I am delighted to share that UJ has been selected as one of the 2025 Global MOOC and Online Education Alliance (GMA) Award winners. The winning submission, developed by the Faculty of Education’s Centre for Advanced Learning Technologies in Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts and Mathematics (CALTSTEAM) under the leadership of Prof Umesh Ramnarain, features the Learning Analytics-embedded Virtual Reality (LAViR) Classroom. This Short Learning Programme on Microteaching integrates immersive technology and data analytics to revolutionise teaching and learning, enhancing student engagement and outcomes worldwide.

The award will be presented during the 2025 Global MOOC and Online Education Conference in Mexico City, further cementing UJ’s position as a global trailblazer in educational innovation and online learning excellence.

Through these accomplishments, UJ continues to inspire excellence, drive innovation, and empower the next generation of leaders who will shape the future of our communities, industries, and the world. Congratulations to all!

Wishing our students success in the end-of-year examinations

Lastly, as our end-of-year examinations and assessments commenced on Thursday, 23 October 2025, I extend my best wishes to all our students. I trust that you made the most of the study period that began last week and are using this time wisely to consolidate all that you have learned throughout the year.

You have come a long way, and your dedication and hard work have brought you to this critical moment. I encourage you to stay focused and remain determined as you approach the final stretch.

Remember, if you ever feel anxious or overwhelmed, the Centre for Psychological Services and Career Development (PsyCaD) is here to support you. Whether through walk-in services, individual counselling sessions, or immediate assistance via the 24-hour Crisis Line (082 054 1137), help is readily available without an appointment. I wish you clarity, calm, and success in the weeks ahead and look forward to celebrating your accomplishments soon.

Ke a leboha, ngiyabonga, thank you, baie dankie!

Professor Letlhokwa Mpedi

Vice-Chancellor and Principal