The University of Johannesburg (UJ) has once again been recognised for its excellence in producing young leaders who are making a difference in South Africa. The 18th edition of the Mail & Guardian 200 Young South Africans awards, which was announced on Friday, 23 June 2023, features 34 UJ alumni, staff, and students.
The awards, which have been taking place annually since 2006, recognise young people who have made significant contributions in a variety of fields, including civil society, health, technology, arts, and entertainment. This year, the Mail & Guardian aimed to reward and recognise youth who have “created resilient, entrepreneurial, and robust solutions” for the country.
UJ Registrar Professor Bettine van Vuuren expressed her delight at the university’s strong showing in the awards: “These are dynamic and resilient young people that excel in their respective fields, and actively contribute to the South Africa that we all want to live in. As in previous years, a number of UJ staff, students, and alumni are included in this very prestigious list. We are immensely proud of their contributions made to South Africa, and how their actions actively and purposefully foreground the UJ and the Vice-Chancellor’s vision of Global Excellence and Stature 4.0 for Societal Impact.”
Says UJ Vice-Chancellor and Principal Professor Letlhokwa Mpedi on the recognition: “Since the inception of the Mail & Guardian 200 Young South Africans awards almost two decades ago, UJ has consistently featured across various categories through its outstanding alumni, staff members, and students or postdoctoral fellows. This is a testament to the robustness and excellence of our academic programmes and the quality of our research in making a long-lasting impact on our graduates and equipping them to stand tall in society and in their respective fields. We pride ourselves in creating a community of young people who, through their innovative and resilient spirit, inspire others and contribute towards societal development.”
Read more about the UJ recipients here:
