UP reached a significant milestone with regard to Sustainable Development Goal 5, Gender Equality.

The University of Pretoria’s (UP) commitment to sustainable development, assessed through its contribution to the United Nations 2030 Agenda and its 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), was recognised by the 2023 Times Higher Education Impact Rankings. UP has improved its global position, rising to 69, up from the 101 – 200 band in 2022.

In 2023, UP maintained its position as second in South Africa, and on a continental level, is now ranked second (third in 2022).  

The University reached a significant milestone with regard to SDG 5, Gender Equality. Out of 1 081 institutions ranked for this SDG, UP secured an impressive 14^th position globally. What makes this achievement even more notable is the fact that UP participated in this SDG for the first time, yet emerged as the top-ranked institution in both Africa and South Africa.

SDG 5 recognises that gender equality is not only a fundamental human right, but also a crucial foundation for a peaceful, prosperous and sustainable world. It highlights the importance of addressing gender disparities in various areas of life, including education, employment, healthcare, and participation in political and economic decision-making. It also emphasises the role of universities in advancing gender equality through research, policies, and their efforts in recruiting and empowering women and girls.

UP Vice-Chancellor and Principal Professor Tawana Kupe extended his gratitude to faculties, researchers, staff and students, and acknowledged their tireless efforts, expertise and unwavering commitment that were instrumental in driving the advancement of gender equality through research, policies and initiatives.

“It is due to your remarkable dedication that we have achieved such commendable standing with regard to SDG 5,” Prof Kupe said.

Several activities and projects that are aligned with SDG 5 are underway at UP. These include:

• A Gender Studies programme, which examines the social, cultural and political dimensions of gender, and promotes critical thinking and research on gender issues.
• The Teach4Reach project is the outcome of a collaboration between African and Austrian universities, and has received tremendous feedback from all over the world. This initiative sets out to raise awareness about the SDGs among teachers and teacher educators; craft future-focused research agendas on quality education, gender equality, reducing inequality, and good health and well-being; build international collaborative networks to support the SDGs; and support scientific knowledge development on the SDGs in the education domain.
• The Girls for Girls mentorship project was born at Harvard University in 2016 when a group of women from across the globe recognised that something is holding women back from running for public office and leadership. The target is to reach 10 000 mentors and 1 000 000 mentees by 2025.
• TuksRes Women in Leadership Academy: This initiative started in 2014 to provide a platform through which to enrich the lives of young women at university. At the core of the academy are the pillars of service, network and skills. Through it, first- and second-year female students in residences embark on a year of leadership training.
• The Women's Leadership Development Programme aims to empower women leaders in various sectors, and provides training, mentorship and networking opportunities to enhance women's leadership skills and promote their participation in decision-making roles.
• Gender-responsive policies: UP is committed to developing and implementing gender-responsive policies and practices. This includes policies that promote gender equality in recruitment, promotion and resource allocation, as well as fostering a supportive and inclusive environment for everyone.

The proactive measures in addressing gender-based violence on campus and fostering a safe and inclusive environment for everyone have been significant milestones. Research endeavours focused on gender equality contribute to the development of evidence-based policies and interventions.

These efforts allow UP to make tangible progress in promoting gender equality and empowering individuals. UP’s dedication to being an African global university reflects its commitment to addressing global challenges and making a lasting impact. By striving for excellence, embracing innovation and remaining rooted in the African context, UP stands as a beacon of progress and a catalyst for positive change in the pursuit of gender equality and societal transformation.

“Let us continue to work collaboratively, breaking down barriers and challenging societal norms to create a world that is more equitable and inclusive for all,” Prof Kupe said.