Far left, Professor Sehaam Khan, Deputy Vice-Chancellor : Academic, the staff of the Gwakwani bakery and far right Vice-Chancellor and Principal Professor Letlhokwa Mpedi. Photo: University of Johannesburg.
UJ Launches Pioneering Societal Impact Project in Limpopo
The University of Johannesburg (UJ) has officially launched its transformative “UJ for Societal Impact” project in Limpopo at Hanyani Secondary School on Friday, 4 October 2024.
The project addresses critical infrastructure needs in the remote villages of Gwakwani, Matatani, and Mbodi in the Vhembe district.
The project directly supports the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), including access to clean water, affordable energy, quality education and healthcare as well as technological advancement.
The UJ For Societal Impact project has also been expanded to the school, as it now boasts solar panels and a state-of-the-art learning facility, known as the Tshumisano Learning Centre, among other initiatives.
In attendance were community leaders and members of the UJ executive leadership and the University’s Chancellor, Dr Phumzile Mlambo-Ngcuka.
Dr Mlambo-Ngcuka thanked the community of the villages for being open to a project of this kind coming into their lives, and for their continued support of these initiatives.
“We normally segregate ourselves as faculties and areas of specialization just so we can finish ‘work’. But ultimately, we recognize that in real life we are capable of being integrated. When you go out, into the world you need a Dr, a lawyer- services such as water, electricity as just one person. This project has demonstrated the value we can bring when we work together-and I must say, you aced it!”
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Godfrey Nefolovhodwe, a resident of Gwakwani whose desire to see a better environment for his community expressed his gratitude to UJ for the change they’ve brought to the community.
“When UJ arrived, things quickly started to change. It feels like we’re almost on the map. The government had forgotten us, but now they know that there is a village called Gwakwani. I am deeply grateful to UJ and its staff for their ongoing assistance and support,” he said.
Speaking at the launch, UJ Vice-Chancellor and Principal, Professor Letlhokwa George Mpedi highlighted the importance of the project:
“This project promotes sustainable practices, especially in energy and water conservation, addressing immediate needs while ensuring long-term viability. It also provides UJ students with real-world learning opportunities in fields like engineering, health sciences, and community development as demonstrated by the various roles played by diverse faculties.”
The UJ for Societal Impact project marks a critical step in the University’s drive for societal transformation through education, innovation, and its leadership in achieving the UN SDGs.