It is my privilege to once again commend the academic achievers of the University of Pretoria (UP). Your accomplishments, whether through National Research Foundation (NRF) ratings, prestigious research awards, or outstanding academic performance, not only affirm UP’s reputation for excellence and innovation but also serve as a beacon of our global impact. This is a moment to celebrate the dedication, hard work, and intellectual curiosity that define our university community.

This year, UP has further strengthened its standing on the global academic stage, a testament to our collective pursuit of excellence. In the 2026 QS World University Rankings, UP rose significantly to 362nd globally and was ranked 26th worldwide for international research collaboration. This remarkable progress was acknowledged with the "Most Improved – Sub-Saharan Africa Award" at the QS EduData Summit 2024, a clear indication that our strategic focus is yielding tangible results. Furthermore, the 2025 QS Subject Rankings saw 22 of our disciplines ranked among the best in the world, with six – Mechanical Engineering, Veterinary Science, Mathematics, Accounting & Finance, Business & Management Studies, and Economics & Econometrics – rated as No. 1 in South Africa.

This consistent performance is mirrored in other global assessments. The 2025 Times Higher Education Subject Rankings also placed six of UP’s subjects at the top nationally, underscoring our leadership in key fields. In an area of increasing global importance, the 2025 Times Higher Education Impact Rankings saw UP ranked 63rd globally overall and an exceptional 7th worldwide for SDG 17 (Partnerships for the Goals). This reflects our deep-seated commitment to sustainability and societal relevance. Our recent 2024 Carbon Footprint Report outlines concrete steps we are taking to minimize our environmental impact, from improving energy efficiency and increasing renewable energy sources to incorporating sustainability into daily operations. We are not only researching solutions but also living them on our campuses, serving as a "living laboratory" for sustainable practices.

Nationally, our researchers continue to secure competitive NRF ratings and prestigious awards, demonstrating the University’s ability to produce work of the highest calibre. We celebrate the new A-rated researchers who have been recognized as leading international scholars and congratulate those who received honours at the 2025 NRF Awards, including a significant award for championing research capacity development and transformation. These honours underscore the depth of talent and expertise across our faculties and the vital role UP plays in advancing knowledge that matters.

Council remains unwavering in its commitment to steering UP toward long-term sustainability, innovation, and transformation. Our investments in research infrastructure, such as the ground-breaking Nuclear Medicine Research Infrastructure (NuMeRI) facility, and our strategic partnerships, like the new Centre for Transformative Infectious Disease Research with Cornell University, are designed to create an environment where your achievements can flourish. We are also enhancing our digital capabilities through initiatives like the Smart Campus and the Digital Capability Lab to ensure our students and researchers are equipped for the future of work.

Finally, we are dedicated to fostering a culture of cultural transformation and inclusion, a journey that embraces diversity and ensures every member of our community feels valued and empowered. From advancing digital literacy to nurturing a more inclusive environment, these priorities provide the foundation for your accomplishments.

 

To our 2025 achievers: you are not only excelling in your fields – you are shaping the future of UP, South Africa, and the world. We celebrate your dedication and look forward to your continued success.