University Social Responsibility

At the University of Pretoria (UP) we firmly believe that we are a resource and an asset to South Africa, Africa and the world. We take pride in our locally and globally relevant programmes which produce graduates who are socially conscious, active citizens who address societal issues and positively impact our communities. We know that even beyond the boundaries of knowledge production comes the wisdom and responsibility to apply our knowledge and skills to the benefit of all.

We have some of the brightest young minds fully engaged with using their skills, as part of our holistic curriculum and active volunteerism, to find solutions for and provide assistance to communities plagued by many of South Africa’s most unequal socio-economic challenges through our array of community engagement projects. We are an anchor institution within the community and we have a direct impact on the local economy, the safety and security, the upkeep and sustainability of our surrounds, infrastructure, attractiveness and the uplifting and improving on the general conditions of the towns our campuses are home to.

We are environmentally conscious and committed to sustainable growth; greening and earth-friendly initiatives which give back positively to the planet rather than have a harmful impact. More than this, we know that the actions we do today have a ripple effect and impacts on our future.

At UP, personal growth and broadening the minds of our students and staff is part of our way of life. Our efforts have not gone unnoticed and we are the first African university on the global University Social Responsiveness Network and we are represented on the Talloires Network, both of which are international associations of universities that are committed to strengthening the civic roles and social responsibilities of higher education. We know that everyday kindnesses, courtesy, respect, tolerance and care towards everyone in our community can make a positive and lasting difference in our society and on the environment.

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