On 08 March 2025, the UP RAG General Committee Meet and Greet took place at Humanities 4-2, bringing together the leadership team, new members, and supporters of the organization for a morning filled with inspiration, collaboration, and team building. The event was a resounding success, serving as a fantastic platform for both familiar and new faces to connect, learn about the organization, and engage in meaningful conversations about the vision for the 2024/2025 term.

The event kicked off promptly at 10:00 AM, with a warm welcome from the General Committee Officer. The purpose of the event was clearly outlined, giving everyone an understanding of UP RAG's mission, structure, and its role in student empowerment and community service. As the morning unfolded, attendees were introduced to the team behind the organization and given an overview of the exciting plans in store for the upcoming year.

One of the highlights of the event was the address by Chairperson Lungisani Ngubeni, where he laid out his bold 2024/2025 vision  for UP RAG’s future. Emphasizing the importance of community engagement, student empowerment, and collaborative leadership, Lungisani shared his commitment to growing UP RAG’s impact in the areas of health, education, and social welfare.

“We are not just an organization; we are a movement,” Lungisani stated in his address. “UPRAG is here to empower students, uplift communities, and create lasting change. Through innovative fundraising strategies and fostering inclusivity, we will ensure that every student has the opportunity to make a difference.”

His vision is aligned with the University of Pretoria’s strategic goals, particularly the emphasis on “human-centeredness” under the leadership of Prof. Francis Petersen, UP’s new Vice-Chancellor. Lungisani emphasized the importance of leveraging technology, creating leadership development opportunities, and promoting diversity within the organization.

The program for the General Committee Meet & Greet included a series of engaging activities, with introductions to the key members of the executive committee and a detailed explanation of UPRAG’s various arms, such as Kagiso (theoretical arm) and Thusho (practical arm). Attendees learned about Kagiso’s focus on research, education, and social issue awareness, while Thusho engages in hands-on community service and volunteer projects.

One of the most anticipated segments was the GC Introductions, where each General Committee member shared their background, course details, and reasons for joining UPRAG. The diverse group of students represented various faculties, showcasing the broad scope of engagement that UP RAG offers.

The event also included an icebreaker activity, allowing members to interact with one another and create lasting connections. Afterward, everyone enjoyed refreshments and networking time, fostering a relaxed atmosphere for continued conversations and the exchange of ideas.

As the event concluded, Vice-Chairperson delivered a session on content creation, encouraging everyone to get involved in promoting UP RAG’s initiatives through various platforms. General Committee Officer wrapped up the day with closing remarks, thanking everyone for their attendance and enthusiasm. They encouraged all attendees to stay actively involved with UP RAG throughout the year and to help bring Lungisani’s vision to life.

The General Committee Meet and Greet was not only a great opportunity to introduce new members to the organization but also served as a strong foundation for a year filled with impactful service, leadership development, and community engagement. With Lungisani Ngubeni at the helm, UP RAG is poised for a term of growth, inclusivity, and transformation.