Recently, the University of Johannesburg (UJ) achieved a remarkable distinction at the National University Teaching Awards (NUTA), an initiative by the South African University Teachers (SAUT). UJ was the only institution having two honorees among the five academics recognised: Prof Thembisa Waetjen from the Faculty of Humanities and Dr Fatima Ismail from the Faculty of Health Sciences.
Both academics had previously received the University’s 2023 Vice-Chancellor’s Distinguished Award for Teaching Excellence, a testament to their dedication to advancing innovative and impactful teaching practices.
Prof Thembisa Waetjen
Prof Waetjen, a distinguished scholar in UJ’s Department of Historical Studies, was honoured for her groundbreaking approaches to teaching history. Her classes transcend traditional learning, engaging students in innovative projects such as creating a digital archive documenting personal experiences of the COVID-19 pandemic. This archive, which includes over 12,000 curated items, reflects her philosophy of teaching history as a living discipline – one that empowers students to see themselves as active participants in shaping the narrative of their time.
Her academic contributions extend into research on the cultural politics of drug regulation and health humanities in South Africa, challenging traditional narratives with a lens of care and inclusivity. These efforts have garnered her numerous accolades, including the Faculty of Humanities Teaching Innovation Prize and multiple grants for interdisciplinary research.
Dr Fatima Ismail
Dr Ismail, Head of UJ’s Chiropractic Department, received a commendation for her innovative contributions to healthcare education. Her teaching philosophy integrates interprofessional education and culturally responsive curricula, preparing students to address South Africa’s diverse healthcare needs. Dr Ismail’s work emphasises the inclusion of indigenous knowledge systems and fosters a holistic approach to chiropractic care. She has also been recognised for her research, earning awards such as the Journal Best Paper Award and contributing to global educational dialogues through her involvement in the Chiropractic Educators Research Forum. Balancing her roles as an educator, researcher, and mentor, she exemplifies the integration of academic rigour with compassionate care
The NUTA programme seeks to elevate teaching standards across South African universities, celebrating educators who inspire transformative learning. UJ’s dual recognition in this year’s awards highlights its leadership in fostering innovative, impactful teaching practices. This achievement reflects individual excellence and signals the University’s broader commitment to advancing education that resonates within and beyond the classroom.
