This is the vision Professor Letlhokwa Mpedi, UJ’s Vice-Chancellor and Principal, has for the University of Johannesburg. It is through flagship initiatives like Community Engagement Day that this commitment is actively turning into a reality.

Community Engagement Day (CE Day) is dedicated to showcasing impactful initiatives led by the university and its partners. The event provides a platform to highlight innovative, community-driven solutions that respond to pressing societal challenges.

This year, the Day was presented alongside the 21 Years of Impact campaign showcase. This campaign celebrates UJ’s achievements in academic excellence, research innovation and societal contribution.

Prof Mpedi expressed that the university aimed to transform lives and break cycles of poverty, working hard to impact society and the community it served positively.

“We don’t want to be the number one university, but rather one that makes an impactful difference in people’s lives. We want to be the best university for the world. We want to change lives. Let us rise by lifting each other.”

Senior Executive Director for University Relations, Student Affairs, and UJ Sport, Professor Bongani Ngqulunga, highlighted the importance of universities building partnerships with communities.

“We are not just talking about these things, at UJ we are doing practical things to change the lives of ordinary people.”

He acknowledged the presence of community members, NGO’s, and government departments, as well as the student volunteers who took the time to serve others.

UJ Environmental Health final-year students Winny Phaka and Koketso Tebogo were attending the CE Day for the first time. Both students said an event like this was valuable for all faculties.

“It is an opportunity for us to learn about what other faculties are doing, and we get to meet new people. It is engaging, educational and beneficial to us.”

Cathy Seefort from the Tab Julies School said their partnership with UJ – students assisting aftercare children with homework – significantly improved the performance of the children and provided them with role models.

“UJ is a supportive institution for the community. It truly is the best university for the people.”

Adele Mooi from the Dr CL Smith Foundation expressed her interest in deepening the partnership with UJ, particularly in sports, architecture, and education.

Grade 10 learner Tholakele Zabana from Centurion College said she was keen to find more information about the career she wanted to pursue.

“I am interested in engineering – civil in particular, as I love construction. This exhibition has given me insight into this and I am excited for the future.”

Prof Mpedi called for community engagement and partnerships, inviting companies and individuals to work together to uplift communities and make a positive impact in the world.

The exhibition showcased projects by both internal and external stakeholders, creating opportunities for knowledge sharing, collaboration and networking. It also highlighted UJ’s global impact as a leading African university.

Over 90 exhibitors showcased on the day, and the top three exhibition winners were the Winnie Mabaso Foundation (Community-Based Organisation), Eco Hub (Student-led project) and STEAM Clubs (Faculty of Education).

Prof Mpedi concluded the event by encouraging all in attendance to continue to build a legacy of growth and impact.

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