Unisa’s 150th Anniversary: A Tribute to Educational Excellence and Innovation

by
1 min read
u n

Unisa, the University of South Africa, is celebrating its 150th anniversary on June 26, 2023. The theme of the grand celebration is “Reclaiming Africa’s Intellectual Futures.” Unisa has been a pioneer in the country’s higher education system, serving students from diverse backgrounds not just in South Africa but also across the African continent and the world.

Commemorating a Significant Milestone

To mark this significant milestone, the Minister of Higher Education, Science, and Innovation, Dr. Blade Nzimande, will give a speech that will look back at Unisa’s illustrious past and its role in shaping knowledge generation. Esteemed guests, including Unisa Chancellor His Excellency Dr. Thabo Mbeki, Council Chairperson Mr. MJ Maboa, and Principal and Vice-Chancellor Professor LenkaBula, will join Dr. Nzimande in celebrating this momentous occasion.

A History of Pioneering Spirit

Unisa’s journey began on June 26, 1873, and since then, it has been instrumental in advancing South Africa’s higher education landscape. The university’s innovative spirit is reflected in its adoption of open distance education, which has become even more important in the aftermath of the Covid-19 pandemic. As technology continues to progress rapidly in the Fourth Industrial Revolution (4IR), Unisa’s groundbreaking educational approach has become more valuable than ever.

Looking Toward the Future

The 150th anniversary is more than just an opportunity to honor Unisa’s remarkable past and the challenges it has faced. It is also a chance to chart a strategic course toward a future where the university will play a central role in the global higher education ecosystem. The celebration underscores Unisa’s commitment to empowering the next generation of learners and leaders through innovative educational practices.

Bridging Boundaries and Democratizing Learning

Throughout its existence, Unisa has been a beacon of knowledge that has fostered intellectual growth, transcending geographical boundaries and opening up opportunities to countless individuals. By embracing open distance education, Unisa has made education more accessible, contributing to the democratization of learning and breaking down traditional barriers that have impeded progress.

Joining the Celebration

The 150th anniversary celebration will take place at the ZK Matthews Great Hall, UNISA Pretoria Campus, starting at 08:30 for a 09:00 commencement. For those unable to attend in person, a virtual celebration will be held to allow everyone to participate in commemorating Unisa’s remarkable journey. To confirm attendance, interested parties can contact Ishmael Mnisi at 066 037 8859.

A Commitment to Excellence and Innovation

As Unisa embarks on the next chapter of its storied history, it remains committed to excellence, innovation, and inclusivity. The upcoming 150th anniversary celebration is not only a tribute to the university’s enduring legacy but also a declaration of its unwavering dedication to shaping a brighter future for Africa and the world.

Tags:

You might be interested in

A Russian-Spanish journalist and Cape Town native, channels his lifelong passion for South Africa into captivating stories for his local blog. With a diverse background and 50 years of rich experiences, Serjio's unique voice resonates with readers seeking to explore Cape Town's vibrant culture. His love for the city shines through in every piece, making Serjio the go-to source for the latest in South African adventures.

View all

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published.

film festival documentary films
Previous Story

Celebrating a Quarter Century: The 25th Encounters South African International Documentary Festival

cape winelands sauvignon blanc
Next Story

A Symphony of Sauvignon Blancs: Discovering the Wonders of the Cape Winelands

Latest from Blog

racism slavery

A Disturbing Incident: Recollection of Slavery in a High School Incident

Students at a Cape Town high school were involved in a disturbing mock auction that resembled scenes from slavery. The incident, filmed and circulated on social media, triggered investigations by school officials and widespread indignation. A spokesperson for the Western Cape Education Department confirmed that the students’ actions were not in line with the values and principles of the department or the school. The incident highlights the need for ongoing dialogues about racial equality, mutual respect, and education on the lasting effects of historical crimes such as slavery.

ireland vfs global

The Evolving Global Travel Landscape: A New Chapter for South African and Botswana Nationals

South African and Botswana nationals now need to obtain a visa before travelling to Ireland, following the Irish Department of Justice’s appointment of VFS Global as its official partner for travellers from these two countries. The decision was made in response to a surge in International Protection applications from South African and Botswana nationals, and is aimed at aligning Ireland more closely with the Schengen Area. The move is part of a broader trend of countries modifying their immigration policies to balance security considerations, economic requirements, and aspirations to maintain an opendoor policy.

electric fence south africa

“Spearheading Safety: South Africa’s Revised Electric Fence Regulations”

South Africa’s Bureau of Standards has updated regulations for electric fences, with new rules requiring the use of premiumgrade materials, regular inspection schedules and enhanced testing methods after installation. The SANS 10222–3: 2023 Edition 5.1 requirements also include revised standards for warning sign placement and joint installation. Failure to comply with the standards can result in the denial of insurance claims, while consumers can request the Electric Fence System Installer number from installers and report improper conduct to the Department of Labour.

homelessness cape town

The Unfolding Homelessness Crisis in Cape Town’s Central Business District

The homelessness crisis in Cape Town’s CBD is becoming increasingly urgent, with hundreds of homeless individuals facing eviction. The city’s proposed solution, the Safe Spaces Initiative, provides shelter, meals, and vocational training to homeless individuals and is funded by the city. While some support the initiative as a way to preserve the dignity of the destitute, others argue for more comprehensive solutions, such as repurposing vacant buildings for permanent housing and addressing health and employment issues. The decision of how to tackle this issue has farreaching implications, making it a critical moment for the city.

south africa democracy

Examining the Path of Democracy: South Africa’s Transformation Over Thirty Years

Deputy President Shipokosa Paulus Mashatile emphasized the need for scientific and evidencesupported strategies to handle socioeconomic complexities, identified key issues integral to the nation’s developmental dialogue, including countering the impacts of climate change, capitalizing on the advantages of the African Continental Free Trade Area, and supporting peace initiatives on the continent. The conference reflected on the struggles, achievements, and aspirations of a nation striving to uphold principles of justice, equality, and social transformation.