The University of Pretoria (UP) was established in 1908 with just four professors and 32 students, in a little house called Kya Rosa. Today, it is one of the largest research universities in South Africa. UP has transformed into a dynamic university community of staff and students who come from a range of diverse backgrounds and cultures showcasing South African and global societies. The University was born from a vision to create a space for quality education and for new ideas to flourish. Over the course of its existence, and through different phases of political power and social change, UP has been resilient in its commitment to academic quality.

This has allowed us to establish a presence among the top 1,9% of universities worldwide. Our vision has always been to look forward, provide the best possible education for our students, and encourage them to go on to do great things. We are continuously transforming the corporate and research landscape through innovative thinking and the high calibre of our graduates. More than a quarter of a million alumni have passed through our doors. Many are on the path to success, while others have already become leaders in their fields both locally and internationally.

UP has grown to become one of the top universities on the continent, and we are proud that our reputation precedes our graduates around the world. Our story at UP is as much about where we have come from as where we are heading. It is a story of ongoing positive development, dedication to excellence, and striving to reach our goals with zeal, passion and perseverance.

Message from the Vice-Chancellor and Principal

We have various initiatives and support structures in place to ensure that our students get the help and guidance they need to graduate on time, and that they are fully prepared to access the job market or start their own businesses in the world beyond university.

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Vision, Mission & Values

With a vision to be a leading research-intensive university on the global stage, our mission is to pursue recognition and excellence in our research teaching and learning. In our values we recognise that we must endeavour to produce graduates who appreciate the importance of community service.

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Strategic Plan

Our long‐term plan is inspired by the ideas generated in research, discussion and projects undertaken by a number of individuals and groups within the University. Its purpose is to capture the cornerstones of a common vision and understanding of the University’s role and identity in the context of multiple and changing demands.

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Management & Governance

UP is governed in terms of the Higher Education Act 101 of 1997, as amended, and the Statute of the University. Amongst others, the management structures of the University include the Chancellor, Vice-Chancellor and Principal; the Executive, Council, Senate, the SRC and the UP Bargaining Forum.

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UP Policies

Our policies support our vision and mission and reflect our values. It is through our policies that we set the standard for excellence that we are known for in our teaching and learning, research and sustainability in our engagements within our community, with society at large and our partners.

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UP Brand

The University of Pretoria brand reflects our vision of being an African global university that inspires and empowers people to transform knowledge into a positive impact for the future through our values. Find out about our brand and the meaning behind our brand essence and positioning line Make today matter and our logo.

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UP History

On 10 February 1908, 32 students of the Transvaal University College (TUC) – the forerunner of the University of Pretoria – started classes at Kya Rosa. More than 100 years of social, cultural, political and historical changes later, the University is home to more than 54 000 students across nine faculties and a business school.

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Institutional Video

We are home to creative and innovative students and researchers who create change across disciplines and throughout our nine faculties, seven campuses, and our business school, the Gordon Institute of Business Science, which is rated one of Africa’s best business schools.

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