From 19 to 21 June, Professor Chika Sehoole participated in the Uni20 conference for university leaders from the Group of Twenty (G20) countries, which was hosted by Symbiosis International University in Pune, India.

The G20 is the premier forum for international economic cooperation. It plays an important role in shaping and strengthening global architecture and governance on all major international economic issues. Member countries include India, South Africa, Russia, and the United States.

The conference was attended by 400 delegates, including university leaders, industry leaders, and students from 46 countries. The theme of the conference was ‘The future of universities: Making the world a better place to live in—the transformative role of universities’. In his plenary session, Professor Sehoole gave a presentation on the innovations the University of Pretoria has implemented in granting access to indigent students from poor backgrounds, supporting them throughout their studies to ensure that they leave the University with qualifications. The University prides itself on its rigorous commitment to student outreach; it is a valuable way the University can use its innovation and willingness to create opportunities for those living in scarcity.

Using the Faculty of Education as a case study, he argued that it is not enough to grant admission to these kinds of students, but you need to further ensure that they turn up at the University for registration. This includes the transport money sent to these students so they can reach the University, making sure that accommodation is prepared for them on arrival, and providing start-up support in the form of toiletries and food until the government bursaries are paid out. This innovation was acknowledged by a World Bank official as an example for others to learn from.