The University of Pretoria’s (UP) JuniorTukkie division recently celebrated its 20^th anniversary with a vibrant campus activation that showcased the programme’s lasting impact on the lives of students. Established in 2004, JuniorTukkie has been a beacon of support and enrichment for both high school learners and university students for two decades.

The anniversary event, held on the Piazza on Hatfield campus, celebrated JuniorTukkie’s commitment to all-around student development. The programme, which falls under the Department of Enrolment and Student Administration, has consistently provided students with valuable resources, from study and career guidance to essential life skills.

Over the past 20 years, JuniorTukkie has played a crucial role in equipping students with the skills and emotional intelligence needed to thrive at university and beyond. The programme's focus on preparing learners for a balanced student life and helping them navigate potential challenges has been instrumental in shaping successful graduates.

“Since inception in 2004, we have had close to 10 000 students go through the JuniorTukkie programme and graduate from the University of Pretoria,” said Wallace Isaacs, Deputy Director of Enrolment and Student Administration at UP. “This celebration on campus is encouraging as we have interacted with students and seen the impact of the programme.”

The celebration featured games, competitions and performances, which reflected JuniorTukkie’s multi-faceted approach to student support and illustrated its dedication to creating a vibrant and engaging community for students.

One of the event’s highlights was a sneaker design competition, which showcased JuniorTukkie’s efforts to encourage students to balance academic pursuits with creative endeavours.

“Our partnership with JuniorTukkie has been profound, and it has been an honour to be part of the celebration and see the impact of the JuniorTukkie programme on young students,” said Thembiso Kodisang, a corporate social investment practitioner at Investec.

By continuing to provide comprehensive support and enrichment opportunities, JuniorTukkie remains dedicated to fostering excellence and unlocking the full potential of South Africa’s youth.