Dear UP student,

Welcome back for the start of the second semester! I trust you are well rested and ready to continue your studies with renewed energy. I am particularly pleased to welcome you back to campus as we resume in-person contact classes and other physical activities.

We have a busy schedule ahead of us that kicks off today (25 July 2022) with the culmination of the Giving Day campaign and commencement of the Student Representative Council (SRC) election season.

The aim of the Giving Day campaign is to get as many donors as possible to contribute to various University projects, including supporting students who require financial study assistance. Please join the staff and alumni who have already donated to these worthy projects by visiting the official Giving Day website for more information and for the easy steps you need to follow to become a donor.

Leadership elections

The SRC election season is an important journey in our academic calendar, please join the Department of Student Affairs at the Piazza (Hatfield) for the announcement, which will include information around the process. The SRC, like other similar student bodies, is a great way for aspirant leaders to test their skills as it offers experiential leadership development and opportunities for growth through public service. 

The UP Friedrich Ebert Stiftung (FES) Democracy School for Young Leaders workshop will also be taking place from 28 to 30 July 2022. The programme is aimed at engaging student leaders on issues of human rights, social justice, civic participation and responsibility through various critical lenses. Register to participate in this exciting programme for your personal growth and development.

University strategy

In August, I will be hosting two “town hall” sessions for students to talk to you about the University’s first and final phase of our five-year plan (2022 to 2026). This is your opportunity to hear more and contribute to the roll out of the plan, which is called Destination 2026 and Beyond. Please look out for the details on UP’s communication channels and make every effort to join me.

Later in the semester, we will host the annual International Students’ Day, and I look forward to participating in the activities and to again welcome our students personally from other countries back to their home away from home in South Africa.

The COVID-19 virus

It’s important to remember that while the regulations have been lifted, the COVID-19 virus is still with us and can cause serious harm. Let’s remain vigilant and accept responsibility for our own health. The University will continue to provide hand sanitiser at entrances to venues, and I recommend that members of our community continue wearing masks in crowded areas or at any time when they feel it is in the interest of their health and safety. Masks are good protection, not just against COVID-19 but also against other winter ailments.

Persons who are unwell are requested to remain at home until they have recovered, and those who have tested positive for the COVID-19 virus, but remain asymptomatic, are asked to stay at home for five days to limit the possible spread of the virus.

For some of you, it might be the first time on campus. Please visit the UP website and download the UP app where you will find all the information you need to navigate student life, including a number of support services that are dedicated to your health and well-being.  

I look forward to seeing you back on campus for the second semester.

Kind regards,

Prof Tawana Kupe

Vice-Chancellor and Principal