CFO of the University of Johannesburg, Ms Nolwazi Mamorare, says, “My role at UJ is to worry about its finances and sustainability, but tonight I am ever so reminded that not everything lies in the balance sheet, and the true value of UJ is in its alumni.” She further says, “The wealth of the institution lies in what you as our ambassadors are doing out there in your respective fields.” His Excellency Mr Ernest Kgopa, the Chargé D’Affaires of South Africa to Kenya, welcomed our esteemed UJ alumni at the event. His Excellency acknowledged UJ’s commitment to attaining the UN’s SDG of inclusive and equitable quality education, and promoting lifelong learning opportunities for all, and that this visit to Kenya is opportune as this speaks to this SDG target and UJ’s alignment to the SDG target. He further says, “UJ is currently working towards these SDGs by actively seeking partnerships that further advance Africa’s human capital development.” His Excellency concluded by saying that UJ therefore complements their work and makes it easier in this regard. The highlight of the evening was the keynote address delivered by Vice-Chancellor and Principal, Prof Letlhokwa Mpedi. Speaking to a room filled with industry leaders and innovators, Prof Mpedi emphasised the critical role that international alumni play in the University’s success. “Our alumni are the living embodiment of our vision for a Future Reimagined,” Prof Mpedi stated. “By fostering these connections across borders, we are not just building a network, we are building a global community dedicated to excellence, academic debate, and the pursuit of societal impact”. In her closing remarks, Prof Annie Temane offered her appreciation to the guests at the UJ Kenya Chapter event, and emphasised the importance of remaining connected to UJ’s global alumni network. Referring to this event, as one of many held across the world, she encouraged those in attendance use this as an important stepping stone to strengthen their networks with one another and reconnect with their alma mater. One of the UJ alumni in attendance, Eric Kithinji Gichuru, shared his experience from the event and said that “Attending the recent University of Johannesburg Alumni gathering in Kenya was a truly memorable and enriching experience. It was a unique opportunity to reconnect with fellow UJ graduates, share stories, and experiences during our time at the University. Despite being far from the University, the event beautifully recreated the sense of community and belonging that defines our alma mater. Truly, UJ deserves to be referred to as ‘THE GREAT UNIVERSITY OF JOHANNESBURG’. The evening concluded with a renewed sense of purpose, as alumni were encouraged to maintain respectful interaction and academic discussion in line with UJ policies. As the Kenya Chapter continues to grow, it serves as a testament to the enduring bond between UJ and its graduates, wherever they are in the world. For those who missed the gathering, the Alumni Office encourages all graduates to join the conversation and share their stories for future editions of Impumelelo Magazine.
Ms Daphney Ms Daphney Nemakhavhani, Director of Development & Fundraising, pictured with alumni who attended the UJ alumni meet
(Left) Vice-Chancellor and Principal, Prof Letlhokwa Mpedi and (Right) Mr Ernest Kgopa, the Chargé D’Affaires.A.l of South Africa to Kenya
Vice-Chancellor and Principal, Prof Letlhokwa Mpedi (centre) , pictured with alumni who attended the UJ alumni meet
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ALUMNI IMPUMELELO
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