Prof Tawana Kupe, the Vice-Chancellor and Principal of the University of Pretoria (UP), visited the Faculty of Engineering, Built Environment and Information Technology (EBIT) on Wednesday 14 August 2019.  The Curriculum Transformation Committee invited Prof Kupe to share his views and action plans regarding transformation on the campus. 

Prof Kupe explained that real transformation which inspires growth, progress, excellence and quality does not arise from the employment equity plan.  The employment equity plan is necessary but it is not sufficient to where we as an educational institute wants to go.

 The challenge of transformation lies in the ability of each staff member to co-create a new embracing institutional culture.  A culture where each staff member believes they drive the institution, they belong here and they are proud to be associated with this institute.   Should we be able to create this culture, the University of Pretoria will progress to become a force to reckon with on the global stage.   Failure to do this will lead to ongoing failure, conflict, and destruction.

The University of Pretoria is a transforming agent which strives to make life-improving contributions to the society to create a future for everyone where everyone is welcome. Prof Kupe stated that       ”We need to continuously be transforming if we are truly future-orientated.  Transformation which lasts and inspires comes from the heart.”

A Transformation office will be established on the campus to assist with transformation programmes.  The focus of these programmes will be to create harmony among staff and students.  Prof Kupe urged the staff to think about ways to develop and nurture a culture which embraces cultural differences and delivers quality and excellence.