Over the past two decades, and more so the last two years, the University of Johannesburg (UJ) has been a pivotal force in transforming the higher education curriculum. A fundamental aspect of this transformation, as explained by Professor Sadi Seyama, Chair of the Transformation Committee, is fostering inclusive education that truly empowers the next generation.
The faculty of Education at the University of Johannesburg (UJ) in partnership with the UJ Library, the Centre for Education Rights and Transformation (CERT), the SARChI: Community, Adult and Workers’ Education (CAWE), the Ali Mazrui Centre for Higher Education Studies (AMCHES) and the Transformation Committee of the Faculty of Education hosted a panel discussion which explored UJ’s contribution to youth development and curriculum transformation over the past 20 years. Prof Seyama highlighted the intentionality of the Faculty of Education in achieving this through critical interdisciplinary and socially conscious approaches.
Babalwa Silangwe, a 4th year Education Honours student, said that UJ goes beyond just preparing students for the workplace but also empowers them to be better citizens of the country by developing and promoting their critical agency. She highlighted the inclusion of vital modules in their curriculum, such as Social Justice, which addresses the LGBTQI+ community, and Financial Literacy. Young people in SA rely on debt to fund their lifestyles and 43% of credit active consumers spend money on clothes and 11% on food.
Silangwe said that these modules help the youth make better financial decisions which can also ultimately improve the economy of South Africa.
Prof Siseko Khumalo (AMCHES) suggested that questions and conversations of critical pedagogy, inclusive rights education as well as equity and equality should be introduced and taught to South African learners from a young age. This would help them to be able to engage critically in conversations by the time they get to tertiary level. Professor Kumalo highlighted UJ’s unique position to champion this through its Education Flagship Institutes – Funda UJabule and UJ Academy, as it is currently the only institution in the country offering Education from Grade R to PhD level. Through these institutes, student teachers are ideally placed to instruct learners on the complex social dynamics that define South Africa.
Professor Salim Vally (CAWE) reflected on UJ’s impressive journey over the past two decades. He particularly noted the remarkable transformation of the university’s physical spaces. This physical change mirrors a profound shift in institutional culture. “I think we have come a very long way in so many different things. If you spoke about the LGBTQIA+ rights at that time, you would be in a lot of trouble,” he stated, emphasising the immense progress in fostering a more inclusive environment. Professor Vally also celebrated the immense improvement in the demographics of both students and staff members within the institution, reflecting true equity.
As UJ celebrates these significant achievements, Professor Seyama acknowledged the ongoing challenges that persist, including youth unemployment, poverty, and issues of equity, equality, and opportunities. She concluded that the university would continue addressing these matters by ensuring its education system remains relevant and robust, holding firm to the belief that education is the key to success.
