UJ 20 years: The impossible made possible through academic excellence

               Introduction   

20 years of excellence, 20 years of groundbreaking movement, 20 years of making a mark so big that it has no choice but to make headlines. Uj 20 years has shaped stories, transformed lives and created seats in the tables that one couldn’t imagine to be at. Celebrating 2 decades is not only for how long the university has been around for but all those who were around to make it what it is today; the lecturers, students, parents/ guardians, directors and chancellors, cleaners, tutors and so on are the 20 years that we are celebrating today. Hop on and see the University of Johannesburg through my lenses (hopefully your eyesight is good). 

More than just an institution: My blood is Orange 🧡🧡🧡

 

My first day on campus felt like I was being drafted into the army and being sent off to war, considering I come from a teeny tiny high school, I knew I would be a lost young adult in such fast paced environment. That had quickly changed when I experienced the harmonious atmosphere and sense of belonging UJ had brought. As an international student, being in such a diverse and multicultural space was a bit nerve wracking for me to feel belonging or find a group of people who understood my background and my personal story, UJ has provided a safe space to meet other fellow international students to liberally talk about our struggles, backgrounds and opportunities through the UJCS (University of Johannesburg Congolese Society) that hosts functions, posts opportunities of internship, bursaries and possible employment, provides information and aid where it can. This has immensely shown me the intentionality the institution has towards each and every student from home and beyond the borders. Well enough about me, the university goes beyond caring only about their students but caring about the environment as well, imagine to my surprise when I heard the institution has electronic buses to reduce pollution and emissions promoting a cleaner and safer environment. Now that’s what I call intentionality! AKA the Blueprint university or should I say “The Orangeprint university”.

 

How UJ has contributed to my personal and academic growth

 

Coming here as a first year student I had no expectations whatsoever besides academics, but with the way the university is so rich in culture, academic excellence and a variety of opportunities you have no choice but to break out of your shell and make the most of it. Ever since joining the university it’s been nothing but a gain, putting myself out there to gain knowledge from those who have come before me, such as attending guest lectures, meetings and conferences to expand my knowledge far beyond the lecture halls. Attending at an institution that takes pride in its inclusivity and Ubuntu spirit it is impossible not to live by these values in and out of campus. Academically, UJ has made it possible to gain and learn effortlessly by providing different kinds of textbooks in the library, multiple computers to make research simple and of course unlimited internet access. Providing one on one sessions with lecturers through consultation and in-class tutors providing extra assistance due to grievances and academic guidance.   

 

UJ contributing to community and social development

 

Uj has ensured that each and every student has practical knowledge that will come in handy when pursuing your preferred career, by providing access to community engagement  programs that enable skills development and how to approach socio-economic issues and how to address them accordingly through community-based research, service learning and organised outreach. The university does not only benefit from the community engagement programs but also provides aid to communities that the projects takes place in. Taking giving back to a whole new level!

Hopes for future UJ

Thinking of what this amazing institution has to further achieve is quite impossible, considering it has already done so much in a short amount of time. The next decade I wish nothing but an enormous global recognition, more programs to equip and empower the youth of South Africa and taking up space as the best university known. More campuses and even more courses to increase literacy levels in South Africa and beyond!