The University of Johannesburg (UJ) has launched its highly anticipated Strategic Plan 2035, an ambitious roadmap designed to navigate the future of education while deepening its societal impact. Officially unveiled at the Sanlam Auditorium on the Auckland Park Kingsway Campus on Tuesday, 08 October 2024, this transformative strategy places UJ at the forefront of sustainability, innovation, and global collaboration.
Aligned with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), the Strategic Plan 2035 reaffirms UJ’s commitment to addressing global challenges like climate change, inequality, and access to quality education.
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Speaking at the event, Professor Letlhokwa George Mpedi, UJ’s Vice-Chancellor and Principal, said: “Our story as an institution is a formidable one indeed. In just under two decades, we have shown our ability to respond to our shifting context and emerge as dynamic and active participants. We have been at the fore of the fourth industrial revolution (4IR) in Africa and our commitment to Pan-Africanism, transformation, equity, and access has not wavered. These ideals remain the fabric of our institution.”
Prof Mpedi emphasised that the new strategic plan places societal impact and sustainability at the forefront. “The challenges we face today are complex, but they offer unique opportunities for innovation and leadership.” He further highlighted UJ’s role in tackling these issues through research, education, and partnerships, positioning the University as a global leader in driving change.
The Strategic Plan 2035 is built on three key pillars that will guide the University’s trajectory over the next decade:
Societal Impact and Sustainability: UJ is committed to driving positive change by tackling issues such as inequality and environmental sustainability through innovative research and education.
Global Footprint and Partnerships: UJ aims to strengthen its international collaborations with universities, industries, and governments to enhance knowledge-sharing, innovation, and global influence.
Technology for the Future: Leveraging its leadership in the Fourth Industrial Revolution (4IR), UJ will continue to integrate cutting-edge technology, ensuring students are equipped for an increasingly digital world. UJ’s approach to technology remains people-centred and ethical, focusing on solutions that serve humanity.
Ms Xoliswa Kakana, the Chairperson of UJ’s Council stressed that UJ’s African heritage is central to its global vision. “We are firmly rooted in Africa, but our influence is global. This plan ensures we are prepared to make a difference both locally and internationally.”
UJ’s Strategic Plan 2035 launch comes on the heels of significant international accolades. The University was ranked among the top 500 universities globally by the 2024 Times Higher Education (THE) World University Rankings, while also achieving leading positions in Africa and South Africa in various categories.
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These rankings reflect UJ’s dedication to excellence in innovation, sustainability, and societal engagement, a dedication that will only deepen with the implementation of Strategic Plan 2035.
Since its inception in 2005, UJ has consistently championed academic transformation, groundbreaking research, and technological advancements. Through its leadership in 4IR, the University has prepared its students for an evolving global landscape. The new strategic plan cements UJ’s position as a transformative institution with a clear mission: to create a sustainable future through education that empowers individuals to contribute meaningfully to society.
The launch event showcased UJ’s vibrant culture with performances that highlighted the University’s diverse artistic talent. The award-winning UJ Choir delivered a captivating performance, while a multimedia dance piece titled With-Out Limits, choreographed by Fana Tshabalala, took the audience on an emotional journey.
UJ Chancellor, Dr Phumzile Mlambo-Ngcuka, praised the plan, saying, “This plan is crucial for the sustainability of UJ and will leave a lasting societal impact. It shows that the University’s efforts go beyond the classroom, touching the broader society.”
Watch the full launch event here:
