Dear UJ community,
Like many South Africans, I have been in a state of suspense since Wednesday, as I wait for the outcome of the national election. This week’s election, coming at a time when South Africa marks 30 years of democracy, has demonstrated that our country has come of age, judging by the good voter turnout.
A credible, fair and free election
Our government, and more specifically the Independent Electoral Commission (IEC), deserves commendation for consistently delivering credible elections since the advent of multiparty democracy in 1994. Unlike earlier years, this election was notably complex due to an increase in political parties, three separate ballot papers, and the participation of independent candidates. These factors suggest a closely contested outcome, reflecting shifting political alliances and the likelihood of a coalition government.
The stakes are high, and both the electorate and party leaders are on edge. Congratulations to those elected to the seventh administration since 1994. I hope public representatives will prioritise the country’s interests over party politics, serving with integrity, accountability, transparency, and excellence.
At our University, we have strived to educate our staff, students, and the public on the importance of voting as a powerful tool to strengthen democracy through various public lectures and events.
Executive Leadership Group meeting
Back at our University, we held the Executive Leadership Group (ELG) annual meeting on Monday and Tuesday this week to reflect on the progress and challenges of the past academic year and to look ahead to the future. The ELG comprises leaders of faculties, schools and support divisions. We had a frank and robust engagement about the state of UJ and how best we can continue to optimise our University business model on matters such as academic excellence, the quality and maintenance of our infrastructure and the safety and wellness of our students and staff.
I am encouraged by the faculty and divisions’ feedback, and I look forward to the future with a sense of optimism. Our academic excellence and impactful research output continue to receive global recognition and rave reviews nationally and globally, as shown by the various global rankings. This positive reputation is invaluable in helping us forge strategic partnerships while exploring funding opportunities.
First-semester final assessments
Yesterday we have marked the start of the First Semester final assessments at our University. Remember that should you ever feel anxious or overwhelmed, please do not hesitate to contact our Centre for Psychological Services and Career Development (PsyCaD). PsyCaD is here to support students in various ways. Whether you prefer a walk-in service, individual counselling sessions, or need immediate assistance through our 24-hour Crisis Line (082 054 1137), help is readily available without needing an appointment. I am confident that your hard work will pay off, and the results at the end of this period will be something to celebrate!
Celebrating staff achievements
Please join me in congratulating Dr Cayle Lupton, a Senior Lecturer in the Faculty of Law and the Director of the Centre for Banking Law, on his appointment as the chairperson of the Banking Commission of the International Chamber of Commerce South Africa (ICCSA). The Banking Commission is a national committee of the International Chamber of Commerce (ICC) in Paris. It consists of representatives of the major banks and other institutions in South Africa. The Chair is responsible for coordinating with members to provide feedback on ICC enquiries and draft opinions, which mainly deal with trade finance developments, among others. Dr Lupton’s extensive expertise and dedication to the field of banking law make him an excellent fit for this prestigious role. To read more about this, click here.
I also congratulate Nicolin Govender (a Professor in the Faculty of Engineering and the Built Environment), who has been ranked number 5 in the list of all the AI (Artificial Intelligence) people using Graphics Processing Units (GPUs). Govender has been a pioneer in the area of GPU computing science since 2013, when he received the first award for establishing an NVIDIA research centre at the UJ. Over the past decade, he has revolutionised the field of particle mechanics by developing algorithms to enable scientific computing to be done on GPUs along with fundamental research. His rankings of the past five years have resulted in him being recognised as a Highly Ranked Scholar (#5) in GPU computing processing-unit. This is in addition to having his H-factor (Scopus) go above 90 – all at the age of 36! His latest work on digital twins for mining was further awarded with a NVIDIA Inception program award.
High Tea with the VC
Finally, I wish to thank everyone who attended the High Tea with the VC book discussion last Friday, when we discussed the book How to Lead Like Abraham Lincoln: Leading in a Way That Drives History (The Magic of an Influencer) by Christopher S. Coopersmith. Described as an in-depth study of how this extraordinary statesman left his mark on multiple generations, this is one of the most inspirational books worth reading, so do not miss the discussion. Watch the discussion below:
Ke a leboha, ngiyabonga, thank you, baie dankie!
Professor Letlhokwa Mpedi: Vice-Chancellor and Principal
Times mentioned in this newsletter refer to the South African time zone.
