Dear students,

I hope you are all bearing up as we approach this final, important stretch of the academic year.

This year has not been without its challenges, but it has been a pleasure to see our campuses buzzing with activity again after two years of pandemic-related restrictions.

Though, the resumption of in-person classes has not meant that hybrid/online teaching and learning have been abandoned, and it is heartening to hear stories of how University of Pretoria (UP) students have embraced hybrid technologies. This is just one way in which our student body continues to adopt THE UP WAY of doing things, including teaching and learning in innovative and collaborative ways.

Of course, exam periods are times of peak stress, and I implore you to take care of your emotional and mental health as well as your physical health. Try to eat healthy meals, get enough exercise and make time each day to do something that makes you smile.

Also remember that your lecturers, friends, tutors, faculty student advisors, residence parents and others are there to support you. If you need to, please seek additional psychological support at the Department of Student Affairs, or call the UP Student Careline on 0800-747-747. 

Importantly, I would like you to remember how far you have come. Whether you are approaching the end of your first year, or a three- or four-year journey, each step along the way, every outing sacrificed to sit at your desk and study has added to your story and positioned you for personal success.

I am sure that your lecturers join me in expressing our pride in helping you on this journey. We are confident that you will rise to great heights.

For those who are returning to UP, I look forward to welcoming you back to campus in 2023, and for those completing their studies, I wish you great success in the job market.

Good luck!

Kind regards,

Professor Tawana Kupe
Vice-Chancellor and Principal