As South Africa marks Freedom Day on 27 April 2025, the University of Pretoria calls on all members of our community – both locally and around the world – to Make Today Matter by reflecting on the profound sacrifices made by those who stood against the injustices of apartheid. We remember a time marked by racial segregation, deep inequality, and the denial of basic human rights and dignity. 

Freedom Day commemorates the historic occasion of South Africa’s first democratic national elections, held on 27 April 1994. These elections marked the end of apartheid and the beginning of a new era, in which all citizens, irrespective of race, were able to vote on equal terms for the first time.

At UP, Make Today Matter is more than just a motto. It represents our shared commitment, by students, staff, researchers, and alumni, to contribute meaningfully to the world around us. Whether through acts of service, groundbreaking research, or thought leadership, we strive to leave the world better than we found it.

That spirit of impact and purpose is what defines us as a leading African university. Over the past 31 years of democracy, we have embraced transformation and inclusivity as guiding principles, not only in our policies, but in our values and daily actions.

Today, we remain at the forefront of advancing a society free of discrimination and inequality. Through our strategic initiatives, research centres, partnerships, and teaching, we are actively working towards a more just, progressive South Africa, where freedom and human dignity, as enshrined in our Constitution, are truly realised for all.

As we prepare to host Africa Week between 25-30 May 2025 – a biannual science summit that brings together world leaders, top researchers, and influential voices from across the continent  –  I am excited to see our students, academics, and leaders showcase the University of Pretoria’s excellence. Held at our flagship pan-African platform, Future Africa, this gathering offers us an opportunity to demonstrate how we have used the freedom gained through democracy to advance knowledge, innovation, and development.

At UP, we recognise that commemorating Freedom Day does not mean our work is done. It is not a signal to rest, but a moment to reflect and to acknowledge those who laid the foundation for our democracy and to renew our commitment to building a more just, inclusive and equal society.

In 2022, the World Bank identified South Africa as the most unequal country in the world, with nearly 80 percent of the nation’s wealth held by just 10 percent of the population. This stark reality cannot be ignored. But through our teaching, research, innovation, economic opportunities, and policy influence, we are working to help address this challenge and contribute to meaningful change.

Every step we take towards improving our country and the world around us is a step towards making Freedom Day truly matter.