It was jubilation all around at the University of Johannesburg (UJ)’s Auckland Park Bunting Road Campus (APB) on Wednesday, 26 November 2024, as the institution celebrated excellence by its support staff. The occasion was the Top Tier Awards 2024, which recognises outstanding work by its staff members in the support and administration departments. The awards were only introduced last year, but their growing popularity was evident as jubilant scenes engulfed the School of Tourism and Hospitality (STH) precinct, APB Campus, which was the host venue.
“Recognition is not just about rewards; it’s about creating a culture of appreciation that inspires and empowers employees to excel,” said Professor Letlhokwa Mpedi, the Vice-Chancellor and Principal of UJ, quoting business leadership author Simon Sinek, in his keynote address. “There is research that demonstrates the effectiveness of recognition and reward. Recognition is critical for positive psychological functioning, mental health, and performance. In contrast, a lack of recognition can lead to feelings of undervaluation and decreased productivity,” added Prof Mpedi.
He said the Top Tier awards is another of other similar events that demonstrate the culture of excellence that has gripped the institution. Earlier this month, on 13 November 2024, the University held the Vice-Chancellor’s Distinguished Awards for Teaching, Research, Innovation, and Service 2024. “A study by Luthans in 2000 found that personalised employee recognition is crucial for motivation and performance. This programme is an important opportunity to recognise the invaluable contributions that you make every day, which are often behind the scenes, to ensure the smooth functioning and success of our university. You have not only shared your skills and talents but have also helped instil a culture of excellence,” said Prof Mpedi, to rounds of applause.
Earlier, Dr Mpoti Ralephata, Chief Operating Officer, highlighted the importance of excellence. “Excellence is all about learning from each other and about transformational relationships. Above all, it is about planning and being intentional about what we do. Your contribution is indispensable for making UJ what it is.”
Mr Hoffman Geyer, Director of Organisational Development within the Human Capital Management Division, said the Top Tier Awards were another exciting milestone for the University. “Collective achievement has three pillars: mission, leadership and support,” he said, emphasising the importance of advancement and excellence in contributing to the growth of the University. The Top Tier Awards 2024 are as follows:
- The High-Flier of the Year: Imraan Ahmed: Human Capital Management
- The Best Team of the Year: Protection Services: Zulu Shift APK
- Best Performing Support Division of the Year: Library and Information Centre
