Dear UJ community,
Yesterday, we celebrated the 20th anniversary of our University since its establishment in 2005. Born out of the historic merger of Rand Afrikaans University (RAU), Technikon Witwatersrand (TWR), and the Soweto and East Rand campuses of the Vista University, UJ was founded on the principles of inclusivity and transformation. This merger was a bold step in the South African higher education sector, ensuring that students from all backgrounds could access quality education in an environment that values diversity and innovation.
A transformation model wrapped in resilience and triumphs
Yesterday’s event was a truly fitting celebration, marked with pomp and splendour. The Minister of Higher Education and Training, Hon. Buti Manamela was among the array of dignitaries who graced the event. The splendour of the event was not only an outward sign of something far more profound, but it was symbolic of a University that has been a model of transformation and innovation. Since its establishment, UJ has defied the odds and redefined what it means to be a truly inclusive and world-class African university. As we celebrate this milestone, we also look forward with bold aspirations and commitment to shaping the future of education and research, defined by societal impact and sustainability. I thank everyone of our staff members and students who have contributed to this journey and towards the success of yesterday’s ceremony. Click here to read more about this.
Official establishment of UJ Press Pty Ltd
Another momentous occasion was the official signing of contracts establishing UJ Press Pty Ltd as a commercial entity, an event underscoring our successes. Professor Refilwe Phaswana-Mafuya (Deputy Vice-Chancellor of Research and Innovation) and Prof Maria Frahm-Arp (Executive Director of the Library and Information Centre) presided over the signing ceremony, held at the Auckland Park Kingsway (APK) Campus. This strategic decision marks the next phase in UJ Press’s growth, as it aims to expand its international presence and deepen its commitment to producing high-quality, impactful scholarly publications. After four years of sustainable operation, UJ Press is now poised for a new phase of growth, with a focus on enhancing the visibility and impact of South African and African research on the global stage.
The signing ceremony also symbolised the transition of the UJ Press into a fully-fledged commercial arm of the University. The event celebrated UJ’s dedication to fostering innovation in scholarly publishing while ensuring financial sustainability and greater global presence. The ceremony brought together key figures from the University’s leadership, including the General Counsel and representatives from both the UJ Library and UJ Press Pty Ltd. The ceremony significantly enhances the University’s global presence and reputation as a leading institution committed to promoting and supporting scholarship.
Celebrating Staff Achievements
I congratulate seven of our academics who have been elected to two of the country’s most recognised scientific bodies, the Academy of Science of South Africa (ASSAf) and the South African Young Academy of Science (SAYAS). Their election highlights UJ’s growth trajectory in the national and global research footprint. The seven academics are:
- Professor Philiswa Nomngongo: An award-winning analytical chemist whose research focuses on environmental nanotechnology and sustainable water purification.
- Prof Olaniyi Fawole: SARChI Chair in Sustainable Preservation and Agroprocessing and Director of UJ’s Postharvest and Agroprocessing Research Centre.
- Prof Christopher Curtis: A physical geographer in the Department of Geography, Environmental Management and Energy Studies.
- Prof Marlina Elburg: Head of UJ’s Department of Geology.
- Prof Nicolette Houreld: Research Professor at the Laser Research Centre within the Faculty of Health Sciences.
- Prof Hartmut Winkler: An expert physicist in the Department of Physics.
- Additionally, Prof Thandiwe Sithole, an Associate Professor in the Department of Chemical Engineering, Faculty of Engineering and the Built Environment (FEBE), has been elected as a member of the South African Young Academy of Science (SAYAS).
On a slightly different note, Prof Jace Pillay has been inaugurated as the President of the Psychological Society of South Africa (PsySSA). As a registered educational and counselling psychologist and holder of the South African Research Chair in Education and Care in Childhood at UJ, Prof Pillay’s work spans community and educational psychology, with a strong focus on issues of diversity, racism, human rights and psychosocial support for vulnerable children and youth, particularly learners from child-headed households.
Message of Condolences
Lastly, and on a sombre note, it is with a heavy heart that I learnt of the passing of our University’s Chair of Council, Ms Xoliswa Kakana last week. Since assuming her role in 2022, Ms Kakana led us with vision and integrity, and her untimely passing has been deeply felt across the education sector, public service, and in communities she worked with. She was a remarkable leader whose impact, wisdom, and compassion will never be forgotten. It was a privilege and an honour to work with her and I will miss her counsel. May her beautiful soul rest in eternal peace, and her legacy live long.
Ke a leboha, ngiyabonga, thank you, baie dankie!
Professor Letlhokwa Mpedi
Vice-Chancellor and Principal
