Latest
UJ partners with SA Chamber to connect with alumni in the UK
From Joburg to London: UJ alumni power a global network of purpose and possibility
A special gathering to celebrate the University of Johannesburg’s global footprint and ties with the United Kingdom was held in London on 30 July. A delegation from the university, led by Professor Letlhokwa Mpedi, the Vice-Chancellor and Principal, met with their alumni, special guests and members of the Chamber for a joyful evening of discussion, networking and updates from the institution. The event was opened by HE Jeremiah Mamabolo, High Commissioner of South Africa in the UK, who recognised the alumni community as an important part of a wider collective effort of fellow nationals supporting the country while living in Britain. The High Commissioner spoke of the importance of the diaspora working as a ‘team’ and also highlighted the role of the SACC who helped convene the gathering. “The Chamber does a lot!” remarked the envoy during his welcome address, “We have found a strategy of working together to as Team South Africa.” He also acknowledged the deep bi-lateral links that exist, observing: “What I have seen here is the extent to which South Africans are loved by the UK. The UK people have been invested in South Africa from the days of our struggle. We share the same values and principles of fairness and justice.”
Professor Mpedi reminded the alumni of their role in helping form UJ’s global footprint and told those gathered that: “You represent the finest proof of our mission that education rooted in excellence and access can echo across continents.” He concluded by explaining UJ’s vision, saying: “As we look towards the future our ambition remains that of breaking barriers, lead in technological and social innovation; and build a sustainable future built on sustainability. We not only do it for ourselves but for South Africa, Africa and the world.”
Nolwazi Mamorare, UJ’s Chief Financial Officer, used the opportunity to acknowledge the support of the Chamber and thanked our Dennis Zietsman, our Chairman – who had completed part of his studies at the university – for his warm welcome. She also recognised the presence of Svend Littauer, SACC CEO and UJ alumna, saying: “It is always good to welcome our friends who are operating businesses in the UK. Thank you for the partnership that you honour us with and for your team that helped make this possible.”
The visit, from 27 July to 1 August, saw the delegation engage with leading universities to strengthen international partnerships and expand opportunities for collaboration. This included visits to Birmingham and Oxford Universities. At Warwick University an honorary doctorate was presented to Dr Phumzile Mlambo-Ngcuka, UJ’s Chancellor, who is globally recognised for her leadership in social justice, gender equality and public service. A former Deputy President of South Africa and Executive Director of UN Women, she has worked tirelessly to advance opportunities for women and girls while also championing human rights on a global stage.
Demand for university places continues to exceed the capacity of the higher education sector in South Africa. Speaking at a summit held in Scotland earlier this year hosted by Universitas 21 (a network that brings together world-leading, research-intensive universities from six continents), Professor Mpedi said UJ received around 450,000 applicants for the current academic year for just 11,200 first‑year places. Last year UJ responded to this demand by launching UJ Digital, an online learning platform. 20,000 students have already enrolled and course options continue to be rolled out to support remote learning.
UJ alumni receive a 20% discount off the Chamber membership subscription. For more information contact: admin@sachamber.co.uk