The University of Pretoria (UP) proudly hosted its annual #ChooseUP Day on Saturday, 17 August 2024. The Faculty of Economic and Management Sciences (EMS) exhibition on the Hatfield Campus was buzzing with excitement as conditionally admitted matriculants explored the Faculty and gained insight into the exceptional educational opportunities that await them.

EMS Dean Prof Margaret Chitiga-Mabugu addressed the prospective students and their parents, outlining why they should choose UP. Highlighting UP’s status as one of South Africa’s leading universities, she spoke about the state-of-the-art facilities, world-class academic programmes and accreditation of EMS programmes by several professional bodies. “The EMS Faculty is the only faculty of its kind on the African continent that is accredited by the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB),” she said, explaining how this is testimony to the rigorous academic standards EMS conforms to. The Dean’s session was closed off with a lucky draw for three bursaries valued at R15 000 each.

EMS staff members from the Department of Business Management

Congratulations to the lucky bursary winners

Micaela Wathen, Chairperson of the EMS faculty house Commercii, had the task of drawing the names of the three lucky bursary winners. These learners have demonstrated exceptional potential and the UP bursaries reflects the University’s commitment to supporting such talented students on their academic journey.

Bongani Selokela sees winning the bursary as the first step towards becoming the first university graduate in his family. “The bursary will not only provide me with financial support, but also offer me the opportunity to be part of a reputable university that values innovation, excellence, and community development,” he says. He has been conditionally admitted to both the BCom Business Management and BCom Supply Chain Management programmes. Talking about what he looks forward to in the coming year, Bongani says learning from esteemed faculty members will be exciting. “Engaging with diverse perspectives and developing valuable skills that will equip me to succeed in the business world is my main priority,” he adds.

Tara Dempsey, who has been conditionally admitted to both the BCom in Accounting Sciences and BCom Financial Management Sciences programmes, notes: “I lost my father when I was a baby, and I believe winning this bursary is a sign that he is still here supporting me, and I hope to succeed in my studies in order to make him proud.”

Koketso Ramoroka, who has been conditionally admitted to the BCom Business Management programme, has also been conditionally admitted to other universities in South Africa but would like to choose UP. “This bursary just paved the way for me to become great for the world.” 

Prof Margaret Chitiga-Mabugu, EMS Dean (left) with the three bursary winners and Micaela Wathen, Commercii Chairperson (far right)

#ChooseUP Day was a celebration of the future leaders and innovators gearing up to shape the world. The Faculty was thrilled to welcome prospective students and their families, providing a sneak peek into the exceptional educational environment at the Faculty of EMS and the student life at UP.

We extend our warm congratulations to Tara, Koketso, and Bongani and eagerly anticipate the academic success of all our attendees in their final matric results. Thank you to everyone who participated, and to our dedicated staff for making #ChooseUP Day a great success. 

EMS staff members from the Department of Accounting