The University of Pretoria (UP) recently celebrated five years of UPOnline at a gala event, recognising the individuals and teams that helped grow its fully online programmes and strengthened the University's commitment to accessible, high-quality education.

The event, held at the Javett Art Centre on 12 November, brought together members of the UP executive, academic and professional services staff who have all contributed to the development and success of UP's fully online programmes across faculties.

Welcoming guests to the celebration, Professor Linda van Ryneveld, Director of Comprehensive Online Education Services (COES), the directorate responsible for UPOnline, reflected on the University's long tradition of excellence, noting that UP has "always been known for its flying and how well it does at flying". Prof van Ryneveld explained that UPOnline builds on this legacy by opening new pathways for students whose lives do not allow them to study on campus.

A bold leap into fully online education

Tracing UPOnline's journey from its early planning stages in 2017 and 2018, through the launch of its first two fully online postgraduate programmes in 2020, to the introduction of the first fully undergraduate programme in 2023, Prof van Ryneveld highlighted how the initiative has been guided by intention, academic rigour, and the University's enduring identity.

"UPOnline didn't replace who we are or change who we are as an institution, but it extended what we have to offer. We now have a longer runway and a bigger aircraft, one that can carry more people to their destinations.”

With several new fully online qualifications set to launch in 2026, UPOnline is preparing for a new phase of growth.

The fully online Postgraduate Diploma in Public Health and Postgraduate Diploma in Public Management, hosted in the Faculty of Health Sciences and Faculty of Economic and Management Sciences, respectively, were the first programmes to launch in 2020, offering working individuals the flexibility to study from anywhere. The Higher Certificate in Sports Sciences, introduced in 2023, is housed in the Department of Humanities Education in the Faculty of Education.

To date, more than 10 000 students have enrolled in UPOnline programmes, with students enrolling from various countries on the continent and beyond.

A call to prioritise student success and global reach

Professor Themba Mosia, in his role as Acting Vice-Chancellor and Principal, reaffirmed UP's commitment to expanding online learning as part of the institution's strategic direction.

Prof Mosia told guests that digital innovation lies at the heart of COES's work and that inclusive, technology-driven learning enables UP to reach more communities and make a meaningful difference in people's lives through education.

"We must continue to support students and make sure they succeed. We must continue to sharpen our technology approaches to reach as many as possible and see them succeed."

Prof Mosia also highlighted the need for expansion in the years ahead, urging more faculties to participate in and contribute to fully online learning at UP. "We should continue to make a presence in every corner of the world."

Recognising excellence

A night full of celebration, the evening also honoured the people behind UPOnline's growth. 

Prof van Ryneveld acknowledged the individuals who laid the groundwork, including human resources (HR) teams that secured new skill sets, programmers who built systems, learning designers who developed programmes, professional service staff who kept processes running, and academics who embraced new ways of teaching.

The recipient of a Recognition Award of Excellence, Masenei Makena, Senior HR Officer in the Partnerships and Services division of the Department of Human Resources, said being recognised during the UPOnline Five-Year Celebration stands out as one of the highlights of her career.

"For me, this celebration symbolises more than just an anniversary; it represents shared commitment, collaboration, and resilience that define the UP community. This recognition reaffirms that dedication and teamwork truly make a difference. The partnerships we've built and the collective effort of every team member have made it possible for UPOnline to grow and succeed."

Prof Gerda van Dijk, Director and professor in the School of Public Management and Administration (SPMA), who was acknowledged for her visionary impact in advancing fully online at UP, said the recognition is a testament to her team, who work extensively with COES staff members in delivering the fully online Postgraduate Diploma in Public Management.

"At the SPMA, we invest in the professional development of public sector officials, providing them with the opportunity to further their qualifications online, which has assisted many in achieving career and personal growth. This recognition is shared with them as they all work full-time and then invest up to 24 hours every week in their future. I salute my colleagues and our students for their dedication and commitment to excellence."

Click here for the names of individuals who received recognition at the UPOnline Five-Year Gala Celebration.

Watch the celebrations here.