As people around the globe mark World Day for Safety and Health at Work on 28 April 2025 and prepares to celebrate International Workers’ Day on 1 May 2025, I would like to take a moment to speak directly to you, staff members of the University of Pretoria (UP).

Whether you’re based on campus or working off-site; whether you wear a lab coat, a uniform or office attire – I see you. And I want you to know how much I appreciate what you do.

Over the years, I’ve come to see a common thread in the people who work in higher education. There is a quiet selflessness in how so many of you show up each day, committing yourselves to furthering the academic project. It’s unsurprising to those of us who have walked this path for a while. Education has always required a certain kind of heart, the kind that gives generously and consistently, much like raising a child. It takes patience, dedication and a deep belief in something bigger than yourself.

As leaders, we’re often swept up in the rush of strategy sessions, urgent decisions and policy reviews. But today I wanted to stop; just stop and say thank you – not through a formal press release or a speech, but through this honest message.

Thank you for everything you do. Thank you for how you show up. Thank you for the strength and stability you bring to this university.

UP is known for its teaching, learning, research and innovation, but none of that would happen without the people who make it possible: the teachers, researchers, administrators, lab technicians, groundskeepers, security officers, cleaners, IT staff, support professionals and contractors. You are the backbone of this institution.

You are the reason our students receive the care and support they need – not just academically, but financially, emotionally and physically. You are the hands that hold everything together, the bridge between UP and our surrounding communities. You help us maintain strong ties with our alumni and donors, and you help translate policy into progress. You are the reason UP is more than just a place – you make it a community.

When a major research breakthrough is announced, we often spotlight the scientists behind it. But I want you to know that I also see the people who cleaned the labs, maintained the infrastructure, arranged the admin, managed the systems and created the environment in which excellence could flourish. You are there in every breakthrough, every milestone and every success.

As we reflect on these international days that honour workers and their well-being, I would like you to take a moment to honour yourselves too. Your work matters. Your safety, your health, your sense of belonging – it all matters.

This year’s World Day for Safety and Health at Work explores how digitalisation and artificial intelligence (AI) are shaping the future of work. Here at UP, our Digital Transformation Strategy is helping us embrace those changes, responsibly and intentionally. We are committed to the responsible use of AI, and are using technology to enhance teaching, streamline administration and create safer, more connected workspaces.

On 28 April, the International Labour Organisation will host a virtual event to reflect on these developments. I encourage you to tune in if you can, and to consider how these shifts may enhance your work and well-being, because the future of work must always include the voices and experiences of those who keep the wheels turning.

Let’s continue to build a workplace where safety, dignity and respect are not just policies but part of our everyday culture.

I see you. I appreciate you. And I thank you.