“Your place here at this university carries profound weight and responsibility. We have every confidence that you will help us reach new heights as we support and champion your aspirations. You have chosen well and together, we will continue to reimagine the future and create tangible, positive change in the world around us”.
With this message, the Vice-Chancellor and Principal of the University of Johannesburg (UJ) Professor Letlhokwa Mpedi officially welcomed first year-students to the institution yesterday. The occasion was the 2026 Academic Opening, held at the AW Muller Stadium at the Auckland Park Bunting Campus, on Friday, 6 February 2026.
At least five-thousands students braved the searing heat to attend the event, transforming the stadium into a sea of bright Orange.
The event came ahead of the start of the academic programme on Monday, 9 February 2026. UJ Chancellor and former UN Under-Secretary-General and Executive Director of UN Women, Dr Phumzile Mlambo Ngcuka, was among the dignitaries who graced the event, along with award winning Sport Broadcaster and UJ alumna Ms Motshidisi Mohono and renowned DJ and radio personality Mr Thato “DJ Fresh” Sikwane.
UJ has seen one of the most competitive first-year intakes this year, with 450,000 individual applicants and 870,000+ applications. From this pool of applications, 11 200 first-year undergraduate students were admitted. This reflects the University’s public standing. In his speech, Prof Mpedi set the tone for an exciting year defined by excellence and ambition. “UJ is a place where innovation thrives and excellence is pursued with purpose. Here, ideas flourish and dreams take tangible form. Whether you are stepping into this environment for the first time or returning with renewed commitment, you are part of an institution grounded in strong values and animated by bold ambitions.”
Prof Mpedi urged the students not to take the opportunity for granted. “While higher education should be a right, in our current context it remains a privilege. Our students must remain conscious of what it means to have access, and of the responsibility to use that access in service of society.” He added: “We admit students because we believe in their potential to excel and to lead, and that belief comes with clear expectations that they will think critically, act with integrity and make a meaningful contribution to society.”
For many new students, UJ’s academic reputation and global recognition were decisive factors in their choice. “I chose UJ because it is one of the best Universities in South Africa, and on the African continent. I am very passionate about sport, and the calibre of the qualification offered here makes me believe that I too will be great someday,” said Innocent Nkosi, first-year student in the Faculty of Health Sciences.
For others, the sense of unity, which is an ingrained part of the UJ community, has been a welcomed bonus: “When I first arrived there were many new things which was quite overwhelming for me,” said Yami Hassen, first year Tourism student. “As the day went on, I quickly realised that I am no longer from a small school and community, but part of something bigger, where you feel a real unity. I am now part of the Orange Army”.
Ms Mohono shared how UJ has transformed her life. “Welcome to UJ, the home where my dreams were brought to life and into sharp focus. It’s not an easy feat to end up at such a prestigious University. So, congratulations to all of you for making it past the big hurdle, and into the UJ Family.” She encouraged students to make the most of their time at UJ: “Make sure that everything that you do for the next three years and onward is marked by diligence and excellence. If you do not work hard, I am afraid this place will disappoint you.”
Alongside its focus on student development, UJ continues to widen access through innovation. With limited space availability, the University is extending learning beyond traditional campuses through UJ Digital, offering fully online programmes that maintain same the academic rigour and quality as contact offerings, broadening access while protecting standards.
In addition, technology is also transforming the on-campus learning experience. The rollout of smart classrooms across the University integrates digital tools, interactive teaching methods and advanced learning technologies into everyday academic practice. Whether learning online or face-to-face, students are immersed in an environment aligned with the demands of a fast-evolving, global knowledge economy.
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