Dear UP community,

As we celebrate the 116^th anniversary of our beloved institution, I am filled with a profound sense of pride and gratitude for the remarkable journey we have undertaken together.

The 10 February marks a major milestone as we reflect on our rich history and enduring legacy as well as the collective efforts and dedication of each member of our esteemed community.

The University of Pretoria (UP) has been a leading institution in academic excellence and research innovation for over a century, and has weathered challenges and made transformative contributions to humanity. Together, we’ve shaped our institution's identity, fostering a culture of diversity and academic excellence that is defining us today.

As we contemplate our achievements and look ahead, the responsibility to preserve our university’s legacy for future generations is evident. We have begun the year with a notable fourth position in South Africa and Africa and 447^th globally in the Webometrics Ranking of World Universities, and have made strides in providing accessible education to international students. Our commitment to becoming a premier research institution, renowned for quality and global impact, is evident in our accomplishments in 2023. These achievements highlight our dedication to excellence and our pride in the UP brand, guiding us towards a future of continued academic prowess and global impact.

While navigating financial challenges akin to those faced by our counterparts in the higher education sector, we acknowledge that our journey has encountered rough waters, even as we embarked on exciting programmes. However, let us not falter in our resolve. Now, more than ever, unity in our pursuit of excellence and steadfast dedication to our collective values and mission are paramount. Together, let us persist in pushing the boundaries of knowledge, embracing innovation and nurturing a culture of inclusivity, diversity and collaboration.

As we embark on the next chapter of our journey, I encourage all of us to remain steadfast in our commitment to resilience and service to our university and the broader community. Let us draw inspiration from our past successes as we chart a course towards a future filled with exhilarating opportunities and impact.

I am looking forward to seeing you at the celebratory events across our three campuses to commemorate this significant milestone. The events will take place on the following dates: 14 February on Onderstepoort campus, 23 February on Prinshof campus, and 29 February on Hatfield campus (includes Groenkloof, GIBS, Hillcrest and Mamelodi staff). These gatherings will provide us with an opportunity to come together as a community, celebrate our achievements and reaffirm our commitment to our values and our ethos, #TheUPWay. Please remember to RSVP.

On behalf of the UP Executive team, I extend my deepest gratitude to each and every one of you for your unwavering dedication, hard work and passion for our university. Your contributions are truly the cornerstone of our success, and it is through our collective efforts that we will continue to shape the future of UP for the following 116 years and beyond.

Here's to 116 years of excellence, and to many more milestones and achievements in the years ahead.

Let’s continue to make every day matter!