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UNIVERSITY OF PRETORIA

ANNUAL REVIEW 2025

SHAPING F U T U R E S

UP IS READY TO HARNESS THE POTENTIAL OF AI WHERE HUMANITY IS IN THE DRIVING SEAT University of Pretoria Annual Review 2025 978-1-77592-261-2

TABLE OF CONTENTS EXECUTIVE MESSAGES

ENGAGEMENT

Message from the Chancellor

Strategic partnerships

Message from the Chair of Council

Institutional agreements

Industry collaboration

Engaging events

Community engagement

Totally engaged

SUSTAINABILITY

Global leaders in sustainable development

Ongoing social transformation

Financially stable

Innovation for sustainable development

Environmental stewardship

FINANCES

Income

Expenses

Student finances

Investments

Conclusion

Consolidated Statement of Financial Position

Consolidated Statement of Profit or Loss

62 63 64

Foreword from the Vice-Chancellor and Principal

TEACHING AND LEARNING

TEACH The UP Way

Modern learning management

Authentic Learning with Generative AI

Supporting educational innovation

Global online teaching and learning

Teaching excellence

Top teachers

Student access and accomplishment

Top numbers x 3

Shaping work-ready graduates

Arts and sports

RESEARCH

New research developments

Research Chairs

Research impact and visibility

Research pipeline flowing

Eminent academics

Consolidated Statement of Comprehensive Income

Our women in science

Consolidated Statement of Changes in Funds

Research funding

High-impact collaboration

FROM VISION TO ACTION

01 EXECUTIVE

MESSAGES Message from the Chancellor

Message from the Chair of Council

Foreword from the Vice-Chancellor and Principal

MESSAGE FROM THE CHANCELLOR

A vision for impact in a changing world

n an era defined by volatility and uncertainty,

The 2025 Senate Conference, with the theme ‘Research

the role of a university extends far beyond awarding

Futures: In pursuit of transformative impact’, focused on

degrees. We must prepare students not only for

developing actions for accelerated and amplified impact. One

today’s jobs, but for a future in which industries evolve

of the recommendations arising from the conference focused

rapidly, professions shift, and new forms of work emerge

on establishing institutional themes and linking these and

continuously.

related initiatives to national and global priorities.

At the same time, universities face declining public

As an impact-driven, research-intensive institution, UP has

funding and increasing pressure to demonstrate relevance

always advanced knowledge and partnerships that address

and impact. These realities demand clarity of purpose,

pressing societal challenges. With the impact of technological

resilience, and a strong commitment to innovation.

disruption, environmental sustainability, and inequality, we are reviewing existing collaborations and partnerships to

These priorities are reflected in the University of Pretoria’s

ensure strategic alignment. We will do this by integrating

(UP) long-term strategy, Thrive UP 2038 (2026–2038),

teaching, research, and engagement to ensure that learning

which was approved in 2025. Developed in the context of

is applied, collaborative, and responsive to real-world needs.

climate crises, geopolitical instability, rapid technological

Our intention is to have graduates leave not only with

change, and economic volatility, the strategy positions our

disciplinary expertise, but as adaptive, digitally fluent, and

University to not only respond to change, but to actively

socially conscious individuals capable of navigating complexity

shape just, sustainable, and resilient futures.

and leading change.

We cannot be content with merely surviving the complex

Recognising the unpredictability of the future, UP focuses

dynamics of our environment; we must co-evolve by

on cultivating enduring capabilities such as critical thinking,

deliberately shaping and orchestrating actions that enable

creativity, resilience, intercultural competence, and lifelong

us not only to thrive but to become a driver of change,

learning. These attributes enable graduates to remain

influencing the very forces that define our future. To

relevant across multiple careers and contribute meaningfully

achieve this, we must become more responsive, deeply

in a rapidly evolving global economy.

innovative, and more collaborative in how we generate knowledge, educate students, and engage with society.

Students and staff are central to this vision, co-creating knowledge within an inclusive academic community. Through digital

The Thrive UP 2038 vision reaﬃrms our unwavering

transformation and innovative academic models, UP is expanding

commitment to advancing humanity through knowledge

access, enhancing flexibility, and strengthening its impact.

that serves the common good.

Rooted in Africa and globally connected, UP contributes

THE UNIVERSITY OF PRETORIA – ANNUAL REVIEW 2025

to policy, builds partnerships, empowers communities, and enriches the global knowledge ecosystem. While the

As an impact-driven, researchintensive institution, UP has always advanced knowledge and partnerships that address pressing societal challenges.

future remains uncertain, we are committed to ensuring our continued relevance and impact through intellectual leadership, ethical grounding, and a shared sense of purpose. This Annual Review presents the University’s important achievements in 2025. It demonstrates our excellence in teaching and learning and research, our contribution to society, and our role nationally and internationally. UP already represents a next-generation university: one that is digitally enabled, globally connected, and deeply committed to societal impact. Through its integrated approach to teaching and research, it is not only preparing students for the future – it is actively helping to shape it. But we intend to do more so that we become a leader in impact-driven research, future-focused teaching, and policy influence in Africa. We are ready. Our research future – six themes for pursuing transformative impact 1.

Planetary and One Health Horizons

Climate, Land, Water, and Sustainability Transitions

Digital Futures and Inclusive AI

Equitable Governance and Economies

Human Potential and Lifelong Learning

Cultural and Creative Resilience

Justice Sisi Khampepe Chancellor

MESSAGE FROM THE CHAIR OF COUNCIL

Renewed, relevant, forward-looking

he macro forces shaping higher education – from policy realignment and economic fragility, to digital disruption and societal expectations – demand a new

theory of change which transforms the traditional university model from one which reacts to context to one which shapes

our environment proactively. This is the basis upon which the University of Pretoria (UP) built its renewed strategy that will take it to its 130th year in 2038, and which Council approved at the end of 2025. Thrive UP 2038 positions UP as a co-evolutionary institution: one that is not only shaped by the world, but also actively shapes it. We are not starting this journey from a zero base. The strategy builds on our rich history and the strengthened foundation laid by UP2025, the blueprint that has propelled us from 2010 and marked a period of significant progress. During the year under review, UP retained its remarkable position of No. 26 in the world for its international research networks and has accelerated its AI capabilities. These include a new Chair in Artificial Intelligence, which supplements the five research chairs already at UP that focus on 4IR technologies and data integration to solve current and future problems. Furthermore, UP received substantial financial support for the African Institute for Data Science and Artificial Intelligence, a transdisciplinary research institute hosted by the University. Several high-impact partnerships underscored UP’s leadership in research, innovation, and societal impact. New collaborations in water management, mining innovation, and food safety reflect UP’s role in applying science and technology to national priorities. Further partnerships have expanded the University’s industry footprint and transdisciplinary reach. This reflects our vision of becoming a globally engaged institution that drives knowledge creation and innovation.

Mr Ben Kruger

Chairperson of Council

THE UNIVERSITY OF PRETORIA – ANNUAL REVIEW 2025

Digital transformation will magnify our inclusionary efforts: we

Geopolitical developments are adding to these challenges

will enhance operational eﬃciency, adopt innovative teaching

with executive orders issued by the Trump administration

models, and amplify the reach and impact of our research and

potentially impacting major funders, such as the Bill and

societal engagement.

Melinda Gates Foundation and the Open Society Foundation, among others. Additionally, the challenge of board and chair

The 11th Flexible Futures Conference, which took place at UP’s

appointments within the Sector Education and Training

Future Africa Institute, was framed by the theme “Navigating

Authorities (SETAs) could pose a genuine threat to the

the Gen-AI Revolution in Teaching & Learning”. This reflected

University’s income, as they have been the third-largest donors.

the profound impact of generative AI on higher education. As the premier forum for educators to share and explore

As the UP Council, we have had to focus intensely on

new approaches in teaching and assessment, it was evident

fundraising and judiciously grow our research and industry

that UP is moving rapidly from small pilot projects to the

partnerships.

scalable, disciplined integration of GenAI across courses and programmes. The conference not only inspired attendees to

Furthermore, a comprehensive planning, budgeting and

experiment with new ideas but also reinforced UP’s reputation

policy framework, supported by operational procedures,

as a leader in responsible, human-centred adoption of AI in

regulations and financial directives, is in place. This ensures

higher education.

that UP’s financial position is managed effectively within the broader national framework of subsidy allocation and student

Such innovation becomes vital as universities navigate the

enrolment growth.

complications plaguing South African higher education: declining state funding, increasing regulation of tuition fees,

Our networked, globally embedded research system is

rising student debt, and difficulties related to the National

delivering strong results, as reflected in international rankings.

Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS). As one of the largest

We have operationalised Generative AI that is both scaled

contact universities nationally, these challenges hold

and governed. Our new co-evolutionary institutional strategy

significant implications for UP’s functioning and its long-term

will not just respond to societal change, but actively shape it.

sustainability.

More than ever, we are positioned to align research and teaching with global challenges and produce adaptive, digitally fluent graduates.

The UP Council Front row (from left): Dr Hinner Köster, Prof Caroline Nicholson, Ms Sibongiseni Dlamini-Mntambo, Mr Ben Kruger (Chairperson), Prof Francis Petersen (VC), Ms Tryphosa Ramano (Deputy Chairperson), Ms Sharon Taylor, and Adv Adila Chowan. Back row (from left): Mr Danie Behr, Prof Sunil Maharaj, Mr Mohale Rakgate, Mr Allen Swiegers, Prof Alta van der Merwe, Prof Loretta Feris, Ms Vhutshilo Muambadzi, Mr Francois Swart, Prof Marinda Oosthuizen, Mr Mandla Madi, Mr Naeem Moolla, Ms Carol Read, Dr Phil Pitjeng, Prof Themba Mosia, and Mr Sandile Mthiyane.

FOREWORD FROM THE VICE-CHANCELLOR AND PRINCIPAL

Excellence with purpose

Through innovative teaching, impactful research and expanding global partnerships, we have strengthened our reputation as a hub of intellectual leadership.

niversities exist to expand human possibility by cultivating knowledge, shaping leaders and advancing solutions for society’s most pressing challenges. For

117 years, the University of Pretoria (UP) has pursued this mission by shaping minds and transforming lives. What began in 1908 as a modest institution has grown into one of Africa’s leading universities. Over more than a century, UP has built a proud tradition of scholarship, innovation and service to become a community where knowledge is created, shared and applied in ways that benefit society locally and globally. Today, this legacy guides us as we look ahead. Our long-term strategy, Thrive UP 2038, charts the University’s course from 2026 to 2038, culminating in our 130th anniversary. At its core is a clear and enduring purpose: to advance humanity through knowledge that serves the common good. In a world defined by rapid technological change, shifting social realities and global uncertainty, this strategy positions UP to remain resilient, relevant and forward-looking. Encouragingly, the foundations of this future were already visible in 2025, as this report reveals. Through innovative teaching, impactful research and expanding global partnerships, we have strengthened our reputation as a hub of intellectual leadership. This progress was reflected in international recognition: in the 2026 Times Higher Education World University Rankings, UP moved from the 601–800 band

Professor Francis Petersen

Vice-Chancellor and Principal

THE UNIVERSITY OF PRETORIA – ANNUAL REVIEW 2025

to the 501–600 band globally, while ranking third in South

Further developments that support our AI leadership include:

Africa for both teaching and research reputation. Similarly, in the 2026 QS World University Rankings, UP was

Global contributor to AI research: UP received a US$1

placed 362

million (about R18 million) donation from Google to

among 1 501 universities worldwide and

maintained its exceptional global standing of 26th in the

support the African Institute for Data Science and Artificial

International Research Network category. This reflects the

Intelligence, led by Professor Vukosi Marivate. The funding

strength of our international collaborations and the global

will strengthen Africa’s contribution to AI research and

reach of our scholarship.

advance ethical, inclusive AI that reflects the continent’s needs and perspectives.

Digital and AI transformation at scale

First C4IR in South Africa: UP was selected to host South Africa’s first Centre for the Fourth Industrial Revolution (C4IR), announced by the World Economic Forum at Davos.

UP is among a select group of global institutions that have

Established in partnership with academia, government,

adopted generative artificial intelligence (AI) at scale within

and industry, the Centre will drive inclusive digitisation and

their operations.

decarbonisation, strengthening South Africa’s competitiveness in future global value chains and the energy transition.

To illustrate, the University has achieved the top position in South Africa for AI research, according to the latest rankings

Eskom–SANEDI Chair in Artificial Intelligence in Energy:

of higher education institutions published by EduRank. The

In collaboration with Eskom and the South African National

analysis, based on over 61 200 academic papers and 969 000

Energy Development Institute (SANEDI), UP established a

citations from 24 South African universities, places UP first

research chair focused on applying AI to energy systems.

in South Africa and second in Africa for research output and

The initiative supports improvements in grid performance,

impact in AI.

renewable energy integration, and the development of future skills in energy and data science.

In 2025, we launched the Digital Transformation Hub and the Idea Management System. These platforms are designed to

MultiChoice Chair in Machine Learning: This chair was

modernise operations, foster innovation, and enable staff,

established to drive innovation and develop world-class

students, and alumni to submit ideas for improving teaching,

talent in AI. The partnership with MultiChoice, launched in

research, and administration. Developed with TuksNovation

2018, addresses the global skills gap in machine and deep

and the Centre for the Future of Work, they serve as a

learning and supports South Africa’s digital transformation.

central resource for digital initiatives, aiming to create a

The Chair is jointly hosted by UP’s School of Information

more efficient, tech-driven university environment.

Technology and School of Engineering.

Attendees at the signing of the Eskom-SANEDI MOA that took place at UP.

Attracting and delivering talent Preparing for this exciting future means broadening student access and enabling their success. Our commitment is demonstrated in the University’s changing demographic profile over more than a decade. Of the 50 811 students enrolled in 2025, 71% of the undergraduate students were black, and 62% female. The ratio for black students was even higher for postgraduate studies: of the 18 935 students enrolled 79% were black with 62% female.

Student success The 2025 graduation ceremonies celebrated the accomplishments of 15 381 students, nearly half of whom benefited from UP’s financial support. Particularly pleasing was the increase in the total number of graduates in postgraduate programmes, which increased from 7 034 in 2024 to 7 496 in 2025 for all teaching modes.

Nomfundo Brukwe – whose name means ‘mother of education’ – graduated with a master’s degree in Early Childhood Education during UP’s spring graduations. She is now focusing on supporting dyslexic learners and creating a conducive environment for them to thrive while equipping teachers with practical tools to identify and support learners with reading difficulties.

Student access We continued to experience an increase in high-quality students wishing to study at UP, and successfully enrolling. Thanks to our #ChooseUP campaigns we attracted 2 190 top matriculants who achieved 80% or higher in their schoolleaving examinations from around the country. Four of them are: •

Jenhara Rooplall (Midstream College): Achieved 11 distinctions and a 97% aggregate in the IEB exams, and has enrolled in medicine.

•

Matthew de Jager (Helpmekaar College): Achieved 10 distinctions with a 93% average (including 99% for Mathematics), and has enrolled in engineering

•

Johann Opperman (Hoërskool Waterkloof): Achieved 9 distinctions and a 93.5% average, and has enrolled in actuarial science.

•

Tiaan Bierman (Durbanville High School): Achieved 8 distinctions after overcoming major health challenges, and has enrolled in medicine.

Special mention goes to Mongiwa Hazel Ntuli, who made headlines as one of the country’s youngest graduates at just 17 years old.

THE UNIVERSITY OF PRETORIA – ANNUAL REVIEW 2025

Outstanding Vice-Chancellor’s Distinguished Merit Awards’ students were celebrated for their academic excellence and leadership at the Recognition of Achievers event.

Staff expertise

reflecting our ongoing commitment to enhancing the quality

Our stellar teaching and research reputation is due, in large

of teaching. A lower academic staff-to-student ratio enables

part, to the strength of our academic staff. In 2025, UP

more personalised attention and support for students,

proudly retained its top position in South Africa for having

contributing to a more enriching educational experience.

the highest proportion of academic staff with doctorates, with 76% of our permanent academic staff holding doctoral degrees. This is an increase from 73% in the previous year and far exceeds the national average of approximately 52% (according to the latest figures from the Higher Education Management Information System, 2023). UP also has the largest number of NRF-rated researchers in the country, with 537 rated researchers in total. This achievement further solidifies our position as a leading research institution. Our researchers’ contributions have earned UP a place among the top 1% globally in 14 out of the 22 Essential Science Indicator (ESI) fields. These include fields such as Economics and Business, Microbiology, and Plant and Animal Sciences, where UP consistently produces the highest number of publications in South Africa. Postgraduate education remains central to expanding our research base, and increasing postgraduate enrolment – particularly in master’s and doctoral programmes – remains a strategic priority. Doctoral enrolments reached 2 753 in 2025 and master’s enrolments stood at 6 737. The improvement in the academic staff-to-student ratio from

Dr Hafiza Parkar, a lecturer in UP’s Department of Pharmacology, received her PhD in Pharmacology during UP’s Spring Graduation season. Her research has led to the development of a skin replacement product that paves the way for 3D bioprinting of “natural” skin replacement products, offering an alternative to traditional skin grafts.

24.20 in 2021 to 22.83 in 2025 is a positive development,

Fundraising and Student Funding UP has strong partnerships with South African organisations

In 2025, the Student Representative Council (SRC) launched

who continue to show their commitment to education and

A Re Ageng Bokamoso – a student-led fundraising campaign

social development through generous funding. Our three

hoping to raise R5 million. Funds raised will provide direct

key donor groups are corporations (35.8% of donor funding),

financial aid to students in need and address the challenge of

foundations and trusts (32.1%) and local aid agencies (19.7%).

student debt, which prevents many academically successful

By the end of 2025 UP had raised over R255.7 million, which

students from graduating and securing employment.

was a 4.3% increase over the previous year. The Department of Institutional Advancement’s successful One of the significant individual contributions was made by the

fundraising efforts saw UP raise R1.3 million towards the

Open Society Foundation, which donated over R18 million. The

Vice-Chancellor and Principal’s Scholarship Fund by the end

Mastercard Foundation remains one of the University’s largest

of 2025. This fund assists students in the “missing middle”

donors with the Foundation renewing its commitment for

– those who do not qualify for government aid and cannot

Phase 2 of the programme with a contribution of R178.6 million.

afford university on their own.

Ongoing campaigns are aimed at broadening the donor base and enhancing financial sustainability. We remain grateful to organisations such as KPMG in South Africa who, in partnership with UP, launched the Professor Wiseman Nkuhlu KPMG Scholarship in honour of the former Chair of UP’s Council. The three-year scholarship is open to newly qualified black South African chartered accountants and aims to increase the representation of young doctoral students and professors in accounting.

Professor Francis Petersen, and Deidré Adams, Deputy Director Fundraising and Alumni Relations, inspect the student food parcels distributed during UP Giving Month.

University fundraising initiatives UP Giving Month, held in July each year, raised nearly R700 000 in 2025 towards student financial aid and food security. As

Significant launches

UP’s flagship annual campaign under #UPGivingMatters,

Two of the ways in which UP translated its expertise

the initiative promotes a culture of giving within the UP

into tangible, high-standard services and future-facing

community. In partnership with the Vodacom Bulls and Isuzu

platforms in 2025 include:

Bulls Daisies, the 2025 campaign supported UP’s Student

•

The launch of Gauteng’s first gold-status cat-friendly

Nutrition and Progress Programme (SNAPP) and the Vice-

clinic at the Onderstepoort Veterinary Academic

Chancellor and Principal’s Scholarship Fund. The campaign

Hospital signals excellence in specialised veterinary

culminated in a Food Pack-a-thon, where over 300 volunteers

care, aligned with global best practice.

packed 225 food parcels. The Giving Matters campaign ran from 2022-2024, with the goal of raising R100 million from new donors. The campaign proved highly successful and exceeded its target. A new longterm campaign is being developed to replace this initiative and align it with the rollout of UP’s new strategy.

•

The establishment of the Sustainable Development Solutions Network Youth South Africa, hosted by the Albert Luthuli Leadership Institute, reflects a strategic investment in youth agency, equipping the next generation to drive sustainable development rather than merely inherit its challenges.

THE UNIVERSITY OF PRETORIA – ANNUAL REVIEW 2025

Driving innovation The concept of innovation is central to our core functions of teaching and learning, research and engagement. Not only do we create new knowledge, but we also seek to use existing knowledge in different ways and in different contexts to create new value. This is reflected in key global engagements throughout 2025. One of them is the Global Volunteer Index (GVI) where the Department of Statistics at UP partnered with the United Nations Volunteers programme to develop the first GVI for the 2026 State of the World Volunteerism Report. Working with Northumbria University and the International Labour Organization, the project created a standard framework to measure volunteerism and strengthen evidence-based social impact research. Our researchers continue to explore new radio astronomy frontiers, highlighting home-grown South African expertise. Enabled by supercomputing, UP researchers have led an international team in uncovering new insights into the life cycle of giant radio galaxies. Their insights contributed to a deeper understanding of galaxy evolution and supported ongoing discoveries using next-generation telescopes such as MeerKAT. Furthermore, UP researchers have become the first to document wind-driven, land-based deaths of the endangered

UP’s Dr Gourab Giri has led an international team of astronomers, whose research has revealed the inner workings of “cosmic fountains” – jets of superheated gas – thereby offering a clearer understanding of the life cycle of radio galaxies.

grey-headed albatross on Marion Island. The study, published in the Marine Ecology Progress Series, highlights the growing impact of extreme weather on vulnerable species. Taken together, these initiatives reveal a university that is not reacting to modern-day problems, but actively architecting solutions: bridging disciplines, sectors, and generations to produce impact that is both immediate and enduring. While we have strengthened our University’s research standing, international profile, and global engagement, we remain aware

Notable achievements Our researchers continue to lead collaborative teams that produce groundbreaking research. Two highlights in 2025, with research specifically designed for real-world application, were: •

intracranial pressure by using the eye as a diagnostic

of the challenges faced by higher education at home. We

window.

continue to navigate these with resilience and determination to leverage opportunities for growth and impact, and to reaffirm our position in academic innovation. Professor Francis Petersen Vice-Chancellor and Principal

An innovative, non-invasive technique for measuring

•

Identifying the gene Slc7a8 as a key contributor to diet-induced obesity, with potential to inform more effective and sustainable treatment strategies.

GROUNDED IN EXCELLENCE, DRIVEN BY IMPACT Demonstrating diversity in practice

50 811 Total number of students enrolled

Recognised as a global leader Top 10 UP is ranked 10th in the world for governance (institutional leadership, transparency and stakeholder-governance practices) *

71% Black contact students

72% Black staff

40%

Top 50 UP is ranked 26th in the world for its International Research Network ** The University is ranked 36th for Knowledge Exchange (translating research into real-world impact) *

Of all UP’s NRF-rated researchers are women

50% Of UP’s South African Research Chairs Initiative (SARChI) positions are held by women

Top 250 UP is ranked 200th out of 2 002 institutions worldwide for its sustainability efforts *

Top 400 UP is placed 362nd among 1 501 universities worldwide for academic excellence ** * Source: 2026 QS Sustainability Rankings ** Source: 2026 QS World University Rankings

Financially stable

UP is home to:

R2 597 million

C4IR – SA’s first centre for the Fourth

Total financial aid received in 2025

Industrial Revolution (and second one in Africa)

NuMeRi – Africa’s only dedicated

nuclear medicine research infrastructure

REACH-Africa

– the first UN University Hub in the Global South

GIBS – SA’s best business school, and

ranked among the Top 50 MBA programmes in the world *

* Source: Financial Times Executive Education Rankings 2025

Leading AI research

1st

UP is ranked first in South Africa, and second in Africa, for research output and impact in AI Source: EduRank

TEACHING FOR THE FUTURE 16

02 TEACHING AND

LEARNING TEACH The UP Way

Modern learning management

Authentic Learning with Generative AI

Supporting educational innovation

Global online teaching and learning

Teaching excellence

Top teachers

Student access and accomplishment

Top numbers x 3

Shaping work-ready graduates

Arts and sports

At the University of Pretoria (UP) we take pride in not only being a leader in teaching, but also in redefining digital education to create interactive learning experiences at scale.

TEACH The UP Way In 2025, we continued to strengthen our approach to teaching by combining research-led learning, AI-supported teaching methods, digital innovation, and inclusive educational practices. The model, known as TEACH The UP Way, refines the learning experience through a cycle of: •

Preparation: AI-supported pre-class engagement and knowledge activation

•

Engagement: Interactive, inquiry-based, and collaborative classroom learning

•

Consolidation: Reflection, application, and reinforcement

•

Analytics: Continuous improvement through real-time learning data.

This approach ensures that teaching is active rather than passive, datainformed and aligned with real-world problem-solving. As a studentcentred model it aligns with UP’s strategic vision for student success by

Data-driven student success

fostering critical thinking, problem-solving capabilities, and self-directed

Rather than passively monitoring student success,

learning in a rapidly evolving knowledge landscape.

UP actively manages it through: •

Senate formally approved TEACH The UP Way as the University’s official

real-time Learning Management System analytics

teaching framework in October 2025, reaffirming our identity as a

•

integrated advising systems

contact-intensive institution that leverages blended and AI-enhanced

•

targeted interventions.

learning to produce adaptable, ethical, and independent graduates.

THE UNIVERSITY OF PRETORIA – ANNUAL REVIEW 2025

Modern learning management

Authentic learning with Generative AI

In 2025, we consolidated our position at the forefront of digital higher education through the full-scale rollout of

As Generative AI continues to reshape teaching and learning

Blackboard Ultra (clickUP Ultra) across all undergraduate

practices, we adopted a proactive and responsible approach in

modules. This was not simply a system migration, but a

2025 by updating comprehensive guidelines on the use of AI in

strategic redesign of the learning environment, introducing a

teaching and learning for both lecturers and students. These

mobile-first, analytics-rich platform with embedded generative

guidelines address the opportunities, limitations, and ethical

AI capabilities. By embedding advanced AI tools directly

considerations associated with AI tools in educational contexts.

into our learning platform, we empower lecturers to design

Central to this framework is a set of clear principles, supported

richer courses, deliver faster, more meaningful feedback, and

by a practical “traffic-light” system that delineates where AI use

create interactive learning experiences at scale – all within an

is prohibited, restricted, or encouraged in student work.

accessible, student-centred environment. To safeguard academic integrity, we introduced a formal Rather than treating AI as an experimental add-on, UP has

Generative AI Declaration for student submissions, requiring

integrated it into core academic workflows and aligned it with

students to disclose any AI assistance and to provide evidence of

student success systems. Real-time data from the Learning

their own work processes, such as drafts or version histories. In

Management System (LMS) feeds into advising platforms,

parallel, assessment practices are being reconfigured to enhance

allowing academic support staff to intervene proactively

“AI resilience”, including the redesign of tasks and, where

based on student engagement patterns. Complementary

appropriate, the use of invigilated assessments in cases where

technologies – such as AI-assisted grading through

AI could easily replicate expected outputs. Lecturers are further

Gradescope and AI-detection tools within Turnitin – further

encouraged to test their assignments using AI tools to identify

extend this ecosystem, creating a tightly integrated, end-to-

potential weaknesses and ensure continued academic rigour.

end digital infrastructure. UP’s early adoption of Blackboard’s AI Design Assistant and AI Conversation tools in live teaching

Collectively, these measures aim to balance the teaching

environments, supported by a community of practice, has

benefits of AI with the imperative to uphold authentic learning

positioned us as a global frontrunner in applied generative AI

and ethical use.

in education. To support the integration of AI into teaching, UP invested The benefits of this early and intentional adoption are both

significantly in academic staff development. The Department for

immediate and strategic. Academics are able to focus more

Education Innovation delivered a comprehensive programme

on high-value teaching and student interaction, while routine

of workshops, webinars, and Communities of Practice focused

tasks are streamlined through AI augmentation. Students

on AI-enhanced teaching. In 2025, seven AI-focused continuous

benefit from more responsive feedback, interactive learning

professional development workshops and seven Community of

scenarios, and targeted support interventions driven by real-

Practice sessions were held, facilitating the sharing of emerging

time insights. At an institutional level, UP has built a resilient,

practices and teaching strategies. In addition, a self-paced

future-ready digital ecosystem – underpinned by ethical AI

online resource was introduced, providing a platform for

governance and robust support structures – that enhances

ongoing engagement with AI in teaching.

both teaching quality and operational efficiency. In doing so, UP is not only adapting to the digital evolution of higher

Through this integrated approach, we have embraced AI in a

education but actively shaping it.

human-centred manner, leveraging its potential to enhance teaching effectiveness and student learning, while maintaining robust academic standards and ethical safeguards.

Supporting educational innovation

Teaching excellence •

Prof Zack Enslin from the Department of

Our Scholarship of Teaching and Learning Grant

Financial Management received a Global

(SoTL) programme is a key driver of instructional

Gold Teaching Award from the Association of

innovation. In 2025 we provided seed funding

International Certified Professional Accountants

through 32 SoTL grants for lecturers to

(AICPA) and the Chartered Institute of

investigate or implement new strategies that

Management Accountants (CIMA). The award

can improve student success and enhance the

honours educators who go above and beyond to

curriculum.

develop students’ skills and confidence.

The projects’ focus areas closely aligned with

•

Physiotherapy received a National University

institutional priorities for student success and

Teaching Award recognising excellence in higher

future-ready education. Examples included

education teaching across South Africa. Prof

integrating communication skills development

Human’s 2025 recognition reflects innovative,

into technical courses, utilising clinical simulation

research-informed teaching and a strong

to enhance practical skills in healthcare training,

commitment to student success.

and aligning course content more closely with industry requirements to boost graduate

Prof Anri Human from the Department of

employability.

Top teachers

Technology-enhanced learning featured

UP’s teaching excellence awards went to:

prominently, with several grant recipients

•

Ms Lucinda Kok Department of Private Law,

exploring the use of AI tutors, virtual reality

for engaging students through active learning,

and augmented reality for immersive learning

critical thinking and an appreciation of law’s role

experiences, gamified learning modules to

in society.

increase student engagement, and sophisticated learning analytics to personalise instruction.

Global online teaching and learning UP’s Community of Practice for global online learning met twice during 2025, with wellattended sessions that showcased successful Collaborative Online International Learning (COIL) projects. These sessions featured examples from multiple faculties highlighting how UP lecturers partnered with colleagues in countries such as Croatia, Australia, Sweden, and the United States to co-design and co-teach modules across borders.

•

Dr Corlia Joynt Department of Accounting, for designing technology-enhanced and industryconnected learning experiences that develop ethical leadership and professional confidence.

•

Dr Dawie Bornman (right) and Dr Sean Kruger (below), Department of Business Management. Dr Bornman utilises innovative approaches to problem-solving through two-way symmetrical communication and recognises the importance of collaboration, while Dr Kruger’s expertise lies in the human and organisational capabilities needed to adopt emerging technologies.

Student access and accomplishment

Top numbers x 3

Deep investment in our teaching capability underscores our

African Institute of Chartered Accountants’

commitment to student success, well-being, and academic

(SAICA) first professional examination, the Initial

excellence. Student success goes beyond acquiring a

Assessment of Competence (IAC), for the third

qualification and includes job readiness, preparation for

consecutive year.

UP has secured a 100% pass rate in the South

postgraduate studies, and post-graduation employment. Of the 20 candidates in the country that passed

Student access

the 2025 IAC with honours, 25% were from UP.

One of the ways in which UP supports equitable access to higher

They included top candidate Chloë van Niekerk.

education is by ensuring that learners from disadvantaged

Zoe Kiggen, Nhlohletelo Maluleke, Kyle van

and under-resourced communities have access to academic

Loggerenberg and Elné Worst joined her on

resources that enhance their readiness for university study.

SAICA’s top 10 roll.

UP’s JuniorTukkie programme, which celebrated its 21st anniversary in 2025, has had a profound and lasting impact on communities. Established in 2004, JuniorTukkie continues to provide academic enrichment, career guidance, and leadership development to high school learners and university students. A key component of this initiative is JuniorTukkie Online, a digital platform that offers learners across South Africa access to free study and subject support, including 85 GB of data for academic use. Another way of facilitating access to university is through bursaries. In 2025, 2 036 students across several faculties received financial assistance through donor-supported UPmanaged bursaries. Each bursary awarded represents an investment in potential, opportunity, and the transformative power of education.

Student accomplishment A total of 15 381 diplomas and degrees were awarded in 2025, an increase of 391 graduates compared to 2024. Master’s graduates also increased – from 2 064 in 2024 to 2 255 in 2025. Doctoral graduates improved from 415 in 2024 to 437 in 2025. The overall module pass rate has also increased over the years: from 86.4% in 2021 to 90.6% in 2025. The examination pass rate has marginally improved from 88.5% to 88.8% over the same period.

Shaping work-ready graduates Our commitment to student employability saw the South

Ready for Work courses – available online on clickUP, the

African Graduate Employers Association (SAGEA) recognise

University’s Learning Management System – help our

UP’s Department of Career Services with the Best Work

students prepare for the workplace and what to expect from

Readiness Programme award for its excellence in graduate

a corporate work environment. UP students also have access

recruitment and development. The SAGEA Awards recognise

to the Entrepreneurship programme, another free online

organisations that have demonstrated a commitment to

course that teaches them how to use their knowledge, skills

developing young talent and improving work readiness

and talents to start their own businesses, enabling them to

programmes for students.

become job creators rather than job seekers.

Winning the Best Work Readiness award is just one of many

Ongoing efforts to make our students fit for the new way of

steps towards strengthening our commitment to producing

working have also earned international recognition. In the

world-class graduates. With new initiatives such as the

2026 QS World University Rankings, UP was ranked in the

launch of the TuksCareers Corporate Closet and the Final

top 250 in the world in both employment outcomes (No.

Year Bootcamp, UP continues to adapt to the ever-changing

138) and employer reputation (No. 221). These rankings

demands of the global job market.

signify that we are globally recognised for producing highly employable graduates, boasting strong industry connections, and achieving high rates of successful post-graduation career placement.

TuksCareers Corporate Closet provides students with professional clothing for job interviews, career fairs, and networking events.

A vibrant student experience encompasses more than academic success, and we continue to encourage and support our students to excel beyond the classroom as well.

Arts and Sports Arts Tuks FM, UP’s award-winning campus radio station, commemorated 45 years of broadcasting, innovation, and community impact. Since its founding in 1981, Tuks FM has grown into a dynamic multimedia platform with a strong digital presence. It was one of the first community broadcasters in South Africa to receive an FM licence and continues to serve as an influential voice for students and young South Africans. It remains one of the most awarded campus radio stations. At the 2025 International Student Broadcasting Championship, it won in the following categories: Best Outside Broadcast, Best Podcast Talent (Emmanuel “Tswaba_Rad” Radingwana), Best News Broadcaster (Tshegofatso Makola) and Best Talk Presenter (Des Tinaye Kamukapa).

Tshegofatso Makola

The UP Museums launched the Bokgabo ba Mašela: Art of textiles exhibition offering both physical and digital experiences to art enthusiasts, students, and staff. One of the highlights is Art of the archive: Monochromatic portraiture, an online exhibition available 24/7. This digital showcase is accessible on various devices, allowing audiences to explore the exhibition at their convenience. A highly anticipated tradition is the annual Principal’s Concert, (top and right) which brought the Hatfield campus to life with two captivating evenings of music and celebration. The programme included the UP Symphony Orchestra, UP Ovuwa Cultural Ensemble, UP Jazz Ensemble and the UP Camerata. UP’s School of the Arts gave a multidisciplinary performance told in four acts, each inspired by the University’s core values of action, collaboration, excellence and diversity. Another highlight of the evening was the performance of the song Power of Possibility, which was commissioned for the VC’s inauguration.

Sports The University’s annual TuksSport Colours and Awards recognise outstanding student-athletes, coaches, and contributors to sport at UP. In 2025, swimming once again featured strongly: Pieter Coetzé was named Bestmed Sportsman of the Year while Kaylene Corbett received the honour of Bestmed Sportswoman of the Year. Rocco Meiring was recognised as Coach of the Year (Individual Sport), and TuksSwimming earned the title of Club of the Year.

Coetzé (left in photograph) is the 100m backstroke world champion and only the second South African swimmer to win three medals at a World Championship. He came second in the 200m backstroke and the 50m backstroke at the 2025 World Aquatics Championships in Singapore and improved the African record in three backstroke events (50m, 100m and 200m). At the Rhine-Ruhr 2025 FISU World University Games in Germany, he won the 50m and 100m backstroke events. This premier international multi-sport event exclusively for student-athletes is second only to the Olympic Games in terms of event size.

Credit - Wade Brennan

Kaylene Corbett (left) won bronze in the 200-meter breaststroke at the 2025 World Aquatics Championships. Meiring is the only South African coach to have led more than one swimmer to a World Championship medal. He also coached Tatjana Smith, a twotime Olympic champion and the most decorated South African Olympian in history. Colette Uys (right), the Bestmed Student Sportswoman of the Year, won a bronze medal in the women’s shot put at the FISU World University Games. During the South African Senior Track & Field Championships, she achieved what few athletes have ever done by medalling in three events. She won gold in the shot put and discus events and silver in the hammer throw. At the University Sports South Africa (USSA) Athletics Championships, she won all three events.

THE UNIVERSITY OF PRETORIA – ANNUAL REVIEW 2025

Calvin Davis (left) was the Bestmed Student Sportsman of the Year. In the past five years, Tuks has been crowned USSA champions for men’s hockey four times. Davis played in three of those finals. He has captained the team in the last two finals and also represented South Africa on the international stage. Lizanne Jacobs (right), who coached the TuksWomensRugby 15s team to contest the 2025 FNB Women’s Varsity Cup and USSA Rugby finals, was named the Coach of the Year (Team Sport). Under her guidance, Tuks clinched the Women’s Carlton League title.

USSA star athletes

Mr Calvin Ratladi was awarded one of South Africa’s most

At the USSA Championships, Tuks athletes secured 13 gold medals, the most by any university team but narrowly missed winning the overall title. Female athletes carried the team, securing nine of the ten gold medals. Medical student Colette Uys set a new

prestigious accolades in the arts – the 2025 Standard Bank Young Artist Award for Theatre. He lectures second-year, thirdyear, and honours students in directing, performance studies, drama, and film history in the Drama Department in UP’s School of the Arts.

national university record with her hammer throw distance. The following sporting teams won their events: •

Women’s rugby

•

Men’s sevens rugby

•

Hip-hop cheerleading

•

Women’s rowing

•

Swimming

•

Cross-country

•

Women’s cricket. Carmie Prinsloo

LOCAL EXCELLENCE, GLOBAL IMPACT We drive success

We prepare students well #138 in the world

… through increased graduation rates 16 000

Rating for producing highly-employable graduates

Qualifications awarded

15 000 10 000

15 381 14 990

5 000

#221 in the world

0 2024

2025

Rating for successful post-graduation career placement

… through fewer students per staff

Source: 2026 QS World University Rankings

40 Staff-to-student ratio

30 20 10

24.20

22.83

2021

2025

We care about our students

… through consistent SAICA ITC performance

100%

2 036 Number of students who received financial assistance through donor-supported UP-managed bursaries

703 Students with disabilities supported

100% pass rate for the third consecutive year

225 Number of food parcels packed to support the Student Nutrition and Progress Programme

Wide-ranging student support UP oﬀers a number of support initiatives to ensure students graduate successfully in time: •

UP Readiness Survey assesses new first-year students’ preparedness for university.

•

The Academic Orientation Programme provides comprehensive support to encourage the success of first-year students.

•

Academic Success Coaches advise and refer students for the support or intervention they may require.

•

Online learning platforms ensure that students can attend a tutorial from wherever they are, or log in to work through the recorded tutorial.

•

The High Impact Modules project improves the module success rate of modules that indicate a pass rate of below 70%. In 2025, a new Module Review App was piloted to streamline data collection and intervention tracking for each module.

GLOBALLY COMPETITIVE, LOCALLY IMPACTFUL

03 RESEARCH New research developments

Research Chairs

Research impact and visibility

Research pipeline flowing

Eminent academics

Our women in science

Research funding

High-impact collaboration

In the 2026 QS World University Rankings, UP retained its global ranking of 26th for the International Research Network category, reflecting the strength and reach of our international collaborations. Research is both our compass and our engine: it guides our direction and propels our impact as we develop forwardlooking solutions for a rapidly changing world.

New research developments In 2025, UP launched REACH-AFRICA, the first United Nations

•

AI and Intellectual Property Research: Supported

University Hub in the Global South, focused on addressing

by funding from Canada’s International Development

climate, food, and water security. UP is the first African host of

Research Centre (IDRC), this UP-led project explores the

a United Nations University Hub.

intersection of AI and intellectual property in Africa. It aims to inform governance frameworks that support inclusive innovation and protect local knowledge

UP also participated in the launch of the Africa–Asia Platform

systems.

in Tokyo, strengthening partnerships in innovation and sustainable development.

•

Partnerships for Innovative Research in Africa (PIRA): This initiative supports the development of collaborative,

Numerous new projects helped advance our research and

multi-country research projects and provides seed funding

innovation agenda through high-impact, globally connected initiatives aligned with national and continental priorities. •

to build scalable research programmes across Africa. •

Coptic Orthodox Collaboration: UP formalised a

Horizon Europe COLUMN: UP joined the internationally

partnership with Saint Athanasius and Saint Cyril

funded COLUMN project, a large-scale research initiative

Theological School to enhance global engagement in

examining the impact of colonial legacies on global

theological scholarship and support African-centred

higher education systems. This positions UP within a

knowledge traditions.

leading international consortium focused on institutional transformation and knowledge systems.

Professors Tshilidzi Marwala, Kaveh Madani, Francis Petersen and Wanda Markotter at the launch of REACH-AFRICA, the first United Nations University Hub in the Global South.

THE UNIVERSITY OF PRETORIA – ANNUAL REVIEW 2025

Food security remained a prime focus of our research projects, as the following examples show: •

Climate-Smart Agriculture, a project through the Worldwide Universities Network, to develop resilient crop protection strategies to address climate-related risks and strengthen food systems.

•

International Food Security and Nutrition, a collaborative, multicountry research project that integrates agricultural, nutritional, and socio-economic research to improve access to sustainable and nutritious food systems.

•

Foot-and-Mouth Disease, a major study to assess the economic impact of this disease in slaughtered cattle and support more efficient, science-based practices within South Africa’s red meat sector.

Research Chairs Research Chairs play a vital role in advancing research

reinforce our position as a leading research-intensive

excellence, global competitiveness, and societal impact. These

university on the African continent and beyond.

prestigious positions attract and retain leading scholars, enabling us to strengthen capacity in strategic research areas

The DSI/NRF SARChI Chair in Just Energy Transition was a new

aligned with national and global priorities.

addition in 2025. Its core objective is to advance research, capacity building, and policy engagement on the economic

DSI/NRF SARChI Research Chairs facilitate high-quality,

and social dimensions of South Africa’s transition to a low-

long-term research programmes, nurture interdisciplinary

carbon future.

collaboration, and support emerging researchers through mentorship and postgraduate training. In doing so, they

UP had 40 research chairs in 2025, 18 of which are industry

enhance UP’s innovation ecosystem, contribute to knowledge

and municipal funded.

generation that addresses critical societal challenges, and

Guests at the launch of the SARChI Chair in Just Energy Transition.

Research impact and visibility UP is rated among the top 1% globally in 14 of the 22 Essential Science Indicator (ESI) fields. This means our researchers are the most highly cited scientists globally, with exceptional influence in their specific disciplines. They produced the most publications within the fields of Economics and Business, Microbiology, and Plant and Animal Sciences within South Africa. Plant and Animal Sciences remains a leading area of strength, contributing the highest number of highly cited papers. Five of our researchers are ranked in the top 1% worldwide by ESI, the highest number among South African universities. They are listed below and feature from left in the photograph above: •

Professor Mike Wingfield in Plant and Animal Sciences (UP);

•

Professor Cobus Visagie in Plant and Animal Sciences (UP);

•

Professor Yves Van der Peer in Plant and Animal Sciences (Ghent University, Belgium, with a secondary affiliation with UP);

•

Professor Pedro Crous in Plant and Animal Sciences (Westerdijk Fungal Biodiversity Institute, Netherlands, with a secondary affiliation with UP); and

•

Professor Ussif Rashid Sumaila, cross-field/interdisciplinary (University of British Columbia, with a secondary affiliation with UP).

Research pipeline flowing Postgraduates contribute to high-level skills development and

(compared to 2 064 in 2024) while doctoral graduates rose to

specialised knowledge nationally while postdoctoral fellows

437 (compared to 415 in 2024).

play an important role in research activities and contribute to UP’s standing as a global leading research-intensive university.

In line with our goal of enhancing the University’s international profile, UP continued to attract postdoctoral fellows from

Total numbers of both master’s and doctoral graduates

across the globe. In 2025, almost two-thirds (389) of them were

improved in 2025. We recorded 2 255 master’s graduates

international postdoctoral fellows.

THE UNIVERSITY OF PRETORIA – ANNUAL REVIEW 2025

Putting innovation to work In 2025, UP had a record number of 27 new invention disclosures, with nine SA patents filed, and 11 international patents. One such development is our research on African honeybee nutrition that has advanced significantly from foundational science to commercialisation. Collaborative work with the University of

Eminent Academics The excellence and global impact of our academics remain a cornerstone of our institution’s reputation. Through their research and contributions to society, they continue to position our University as a key player globally.

International recognition A few of the international award-winners in 2025 include: Professor De Wet Swanepoel of the Department of Speech-Language Pathology and Audiology

Newcastle demonstrated how targeted macronutrient balances improve bee resilience under multiple stressors, leading to patented innovations licensed to Apix

received the International Award for Hearing from the American Academy of Audiology for his research that seeks to expand mobile hearing care to underserved areas locally and globally.

Biosciences. Following the assignment of intellectual property in exchange for equity, the value of UP’s shareholding has grown more than tenfold since 2021.

Professor Lerothodi Leeuw Head of the Department of Physics, and

Professor Muaaz Bhamjee from the Department of Mechanical and Aeronautical Engineering, received the 2025 Breakthrough Prize in Fundamental Physics for their contribution to the ATLAS experiment at CERN, advancing dark matter research and strengthening South Africa’s

Putting research to work

New invention disclosures

SA patents filed

contribution to global scientific innovation. Professor Cobus Visagie from the Department of Biochemistry, Genetics and Microbiology and the Forestry and Agricultural Biotechnology Institute (FABI), was awarded the Johanna Westerdijk Award by the Westerdijk Fungal Biodiversity Institute in the Netherlands. This honour recognises his outstanding contributions to the Institute’s culture collection and to mycological research.

International patents filed

External research awards Our researchers took centre stage at the prestigious National

Our women in science

Science and Technology Forum-South32 (NSTF-South32)

Five exceptional UP researchers were recognised at the

Awards, scooping up just over a quarter of the awards in a

South African Women in Science Awards, organised by the

ceremony often described as South Africa’s “Science Oscars”.

Department of Science, Technology and Innovation (DSTI):

•

The Mammal Research Institute (MRI) Whale Unit was recognised with the Data for Research Award. The

Researcher Award in the Human and Social Sciences

award, received by Dr Els Vermeulen, acknowledges the Unit’s development of Africa’s most comprehensive whale monitoring programmes. •

category. •

Communication Award for his role in making forensic

Research. •

The Vehicle Dynamics Group (VDG), operating within the Faculty of Engineering, Built Environment and

and Engineering Sciences. •

consumer science, for her work on food literacy among

Research Capacity Development Award. Led by Professor

Generation Alpha, and Jacqueline Maphutha, who is

Pieter Schalk Els, the group was recognised for its efforts

pursuing a PhD in medicinal plant science.

to improve vehicle comfort, safety and efficiency in challenging environments. Professor Lise Korsten, co-Director of the DSI/NRF Centre of Excellence Food Security, received the 2025

Other honours bestowed on our women scientists included: •

development and transformation.

work in plant pathology, food safety, and agricultural

•

Professor Theresa Coutinho received an Outstanding Contribution Award in recognition of her exceptional

Professor Namrita Lall, NRF/DST Chair in Plant Health

leadership in Pantoea research over the past 27 years.

Products from Indigenous Knowledge Systems, received the Innovation Award for SMMEs. She was recognised

Professor Namrita Lall received a National Research Foundation (NRF) award for research capacity

Lifetime Achievement Award for decades of influential systems.

The DSTI Dr Ivy Matsepe-Casaburri Doctoral Fellowship winners were Nadine Du Piesanie, a PhD candidate in

Information Technology, jointly received the Engineering

•

Professor Lucy Moleleki: First runner-up in the Distinguished Woman Researcher category for Natural

science accessible to the public. •

Professor Nombulelo Sepeng: Distinguished Young Woman Researcher Award for Public Engagement with

Professor Ryan Blumenthal, Associate Professor in the Department of Forensic Medicine, received the

Dr Maurine Musie: Distinguished Young Woman

•

Professor Flavia Senkubuge was awarded an Honorary

for her groundbreaking work in developing and

Fellowship by the Colleges of Medicine of South Africa,

commercialising pharmaceuticals and cosmeceuticals

the highest honour conferred by the institution. She is the

derived from medicinal plants.

youngest recipient in the Colleges’ history. •

Dr Ronell Klopper became the first woman from Africa elected to the Editorial Committee for the Madrid Code, the latest version of the International Code of Nomenclature for algae, fungi, and plants. Her appointment highlights the growing recognition of women in this specialised, traditionally male-dominated field and strengthens Africa’s representation in global plant science.

THE UNIVERSITY OF PRETORIA – ANNUAL REVIEW 2025

Professor Lucy Moleleki, Nadine Du Piesanie, Professor Nombulelo Sepeng, Jacqueline Maphutha and Dr Maurine Musie were all recognised at the South African Women in Science Awards.

•

Professor Lise Korsten was awarded an honorary doctorate by Ghent University in Belgium, recognising her international leadership in plant health and food safety research.

•

PhD candidate Samantha Loggenberg was named one of the winners of the L’Oréal-UNESCO for Women in Science Award, which recognises exceptional young women researchers who are making significant contributions to their fields. She is completing a PhD in Medicinal Plant Science to identify new anti-metastatic compounds for the treatment of triple-negative breast cancer.

Research funding Success in securing external research grants and contracts

management solutions for emerging technologies such as

is necessary to boost research funding, and to some degree

electric vehicles and smart devices.

validates the recognition we receive as a research-intensive

•

the JustHealth project addresses ethical and governance

university that undertakes research with high impact and

challenges associated with the use of artificial intelligence

relevance.

(AI) in healthcare.

External funding Research income has grown over a five-year period, with total funding increasing from R614.9 million in 2021 to R756.8 million in 2025. Government-related funding remained relatively stable, while international funding emerged as a key contributor, rising significantly to R305.6 million in 2025.

•

the AGRI-DRY project seeks to strengthen resilience in dryland agriculture by integrating traditional farming knowledge with modern sustainability practices.

Internal funding Internal research investment has steadily increased, rising from R188.2 million in 2021 to R220.3 million in 2025,

Private-sector research contracts also demonstrated steady

reflecting a sustained commitment to strengthening our

medium-term growth. Although funding from national institutes

research capacity. Expenditure on research equipment

and centres remained comparatively modest and variable, the

indicates ongoing prioritisation of infrastructure, while

overall financial trend highlights increasing diversification of

publication funding and postdoctoral fellowships also show

income streams and a growing reliance on international and

stable or increasing support.

external partnerships to support our research. The overall trend suggests a strategic reallocation towards The European Union (EU) continues to serve as a significant

high-impact areas, particularly infrastructure, postgraduate

source of funding for global research, with UP actively

support, and advanced research training.

participating in the EU’s flagship research and innovation programme, Horizon Europe. This programme encourages

In 2025, the University’s Senate Research Awards funded a

international research consortia that collaborate across

new wave of organised, long-term research. These projects

disciplines to address complex global challenges.

address key societal challenges, including sustainable infrastructure, energy transitions and healthcare innovations

In 2025, six new EU-funded projects involving UP were

such as improved cochlear implant access. Designed as seed

approved. In all instances, we participate as a consortium

funding, the awards support interdisciplinary collaboration

partner, reinforcing our global research footprint.

and provide a platform for scaling research into larger

In addition to these programmes, UP is also active in several other EU-supported initiatives. Among the projects approved in 2025 are: the South African Music Technology and Innovation

•

Capacity-Building (SAMTIC) project brings together two European and four South African higher education institutions to strengthen capacity in digital music education. •

the Thermal management enabling longevities in (electric) Energy Transformative Technologies (ThermEnTrans) focuses on advancing thermal

externally funded programmes. Each project includes defined timelines, teams and outputs, contributing to a strong institutional research pipeline.

THE UNIVERSITY OF PRETORIA – ANNUAL REVIEW 2025

Mares lead the way In a significant joint research effort, UP’s Department of Production Animal Studies, together with the Cryovault section of Hemmersbach Rhino Force, have successfully achieved South Africa’s first pregnancies in horses using intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI), followed by the transfer of frozen embryos. Their success supports the collaborators’ broader, long-term objective of developing and refining equineassisted reproductive technologies to use in conservation programmes for threatened African rhinoceros species due to the close phylogenetic relationship between the species.

Dr Janine Meuffels-Barkas, Extraordinary Lecturer at UP and Rhino Force veterinarian, confirms one of the IVF pregnancies.

High-impact collaboration Strong academic and institutional collaboration continued to enhance our global visibility. UP’s Department of Consumer and Food Sciences signed a landmark collaboration agreement with the European Hygienic Engineering and Design Group (EHEDG), becoming the first department at an African university to do so. This partnership marks a major step forward for food safety and hygiene education in South Africa and across the continent. UP also joined the global GenEHEDG initiative alongside universities in Vienna and Cardiff, positioning itself at the forefront of cultivating the next generation of leaders in hygienic design and food safety innovation. In collaboration with the New Zealand government, UP has implemented cutting-edge cattle feed technology at the UP experimental farm. This innovation involves radio frequency identification tags that enable precise feed dispensing, contributing to advancements in agricultural sustainability. The research is particularly significant in addressing global warming, given the socioeconomic importance of cattle in Africa and the high meat consumption in many African diets.

DRIVER OF KNOWLEDGE CREATION Research funding grows

#26 in the world

Source: 2026 QS World University Rankings

800 700 Rands - Millions

Our ranking in the International Research Network category reflects the strength of our international collaborations and the global reach of our scholarship.

R756.8

600

R614.9

500 400 200 100 0

2021

High-level capacity

Continued increase in postgraduates

UP’s teaching and research is strengthened by:

3000

the highest proportion of academic staff with PhDs

(76%) •

•

a strong NRF-rated researcher base (537) the highest number of researchers ranked in the top 1% worldwide by ESI growing postgraduate and doctoral outputs

2500 Number of Postgraduates

•

2025

2000

2 064

2 255

1500

1000

500

437

415

0 Master’s 2024

Doctoral 2025

2024

2025

Robust innovation ecosystem

Strong collaboration

UP has a strong research infrastructure, including:

Number of publications UP has co-

•

world-first nuclear medicine research infrastructure

•

advanced AI and data science institutes

•

40 research chairs

Research chairs 22 40

DSI/NRF SARChI chairs

Industry and municipal funded chairs

15 918 authored between 2020 and 2025

Africa

9 762

Asia Pacific

3 522

Europe

6 462

Middle East

1 388

North America

4 390

South America

901

Note: Some publications were published in collaboration with researchers from more than one continent.

DELIVERING TRANSFORMATIVE IMPACT 40

04 ENGAGEMENT Strategic partnerships

Institutional agreements

Industry collaboration

Engaging events

Community engagement

Totally engaged

UP’s placement in the 2026 Quacquarelli Symonds (QS) Sustainability Rankings, where we were rated in the Top 50 globally in Knowledge Exchange (at No. 36), demonstrates how we are translating research into real-world impact through partnerships, industry collaboration and community engagement.

Strategic partnerships In 2025, we strengthened our global engagement by actively

webinars, the hosting of ARUA postdoctoral fellows, and

participating in multiple international knowledge networks,

participation in the Food Systems Research Network for Africa

thereby delivering measurable outcomes in research

(FSNet-Africa). UP also continued to host and co-lead three

collaboration, capacity development, funding, and strategic

ARUA Centres of Excellence, reinforcing our leadership in

partnerships.

priority research areas. These centres focus on Sustainable Food Systems, Future Materials and Manufacturing, and

Through the Worldwide Universities Network (WUN), our

Energy and Nanotechnology.

academics led and co-led funded research projects supported by the Research Development Fund. UP’s appointment to

Through the South Africa–Sweden University Forum, UP was

the WUN Global Africa Group further enhanced our role

selected to lead a strategic work package, supported by SEK

in advancing transdisciplinary research and early-career

13.5 million (around R23.5 million) in joint funding, to facilitate

researcher development, with a particular focus on Africa-

structured engagement between academia and industry.

centred research collaboration and capacity building. UP’s involvement in the UNITAFRICA Alliance contributed to Participation in the Sakura Science Programme, under

expanded international mobility and training, with around

the auspices of the Japan Science and Technology Agency

350 mobility opportunities (including students and staff),

(JST), expanded international exposure for our researchers,

as well as the delivery of over 20 training and academic

postdoctoral fellows, and students, strengthening capacity

programmes across participating institutions. The alliance

in science and innovation. The programme facilitates short-

brings together 21 Italian and 78 African universities to

term exchanges and orientation initiatives aimed at exposing

strengthen intercontinental collaboration in higher education

participants to Japan’s advanced science and technology

and research.

ecosystem. As the only South African member of the Africa-UniNet, UP Under the Australia–Africa Universities Network, UP secured

participated in five funded international research projects

three Partnership and Research Development Fund (PRDF)

addressing global challenges such as climate change,

grants, one as lead principal investigator and two as co-

sustainability, biodiversity, and education, with combined

lead, demonstrating strong competitiveness in international

project funding exceeding EUR 140 000 (around R2.6 million).

research funding. The PRDF provides catalytic seed funding to initiate and strengthen collaborative research partnerships

These projects are implemented in collaboration with Austrian

between African and Australian institutions.

and African partner institutions, supporting long-term scientific cooperation and innovation.

Within the African Research Universities Alliance (ARUA), UP contributed to continental initiatives through five thematic

THE UNIVERSITY OF PRETORIA – ANNUAL REVIEW 2025

Institutional agreements In 2025, UP had a total of 192 active institutional level

Environment (C-CHANGE). With climate change accelerating

agreements and 458 research-related agreements in place. In

the spread of vector-borne diseases and increasing the risk

addition to these, the University formalised a total of 29 new

of zoonotic spillover, C-CHANGE will drive research and

international agreements.

innovative solutions to mitigate these global health threats.

One of the international agreements, which promises impact

A significant local partnership is that between UP’s Faculty

at both grassroots level and at institutional level, is with the

of Humanities, the National Heritage Council and the

Department of Public and Ecosystem Health at the Cornell

Department of Sport, Arts and Culture in the Namakwa

University College of Veterinary Medicine. UP and Cornell have

District, which resulted in the launch of the Heritage and

secured a grant from the US National Institutes of Health to

Museum Skills Short Programme. The initiative promotes

establish the Centre for Transformative Infectious Disease

heritage preservation, land restitution, and the reclamation of

Research on Climate Health and Equity in a Changing

indigenous knowledge, empowering young South Africans to reshape narratives around identity and culture.

Industry collaboration We continued to successfully work with industry in our search for solutions to complex local and global challenges. New collaborations in 2025 featured artificial intelligence, water management, mining innovation, food safety and entrepreneurship. Just two are listed here: •

UP and Valterra Platinum explored further opportunities for collaboration within the Faculties of EBIT, Veterinary Sciences, and the South African Centre for Industry and Technology. Discussions covered key areas in mining and engineering, including technology and innovation.

•

Standard Bank, in partnership with UP’s high-tech business incubator, TuksNovation, launched the inaugural Standard Bank-TuksNovation Innovation Challenge 2025. The awards saw 10 finalists pitch their business ideas to win a six-month intensive incubation opportunity through UP’s TuksNovation.

•

In first place, winning R60 000 was Tumelo Makgaka (below), who developed Leruo, a mobile application that prevents cattle theft, enables market access and ensures compliance.

Informing the world, from Africa UP welcomed global science journalists to the first World Conference of Science Journalists hosted on African soil. At a time of climate change, food insecurity, inequality and rising misinformation, the work of science journalists is essential to keep society

Credit: Courtesy of SAB Foundation

informed.

Engaging events We recognise that today’s challenges – food insecurity, global health threats, and fragile trade systems – cannot be addressed in isolation. In 2025, our high-profile events exemplified our approach towards building solutions and sustainable futures. Three such events were: •

The National Biosecurity Summit, hosted by UP’s National Biosecurity Hub, convened stakeholders across animal and plant health to actively shape the systems that safeguard food security and economic stability, both nationally and beyond.

•

Africa Week 2025, hosted at Future Africa in partnership with the National Research Foundation (NRF) and the Department of Science and Innovation (DSI), positioned UP as a convenor of global thought leadership. Framed around “Global security, global Africa”, the summit did more than diagnose challenges; it catalysed cross-sector collaboration aimed at reimagining Africa’s role in solving pressing global issues.

•

Through the Pan-African Cancer Research Institute’s international meeting in Johannesburg, UP also advanced precision oncology tailored to African contexts. By bringing together researchers, clinicians, policymakers, and industry, UP is accelerating the translation of cutting-edge science into accessible, locally relevant healthcare solutions.

Top leaders from UP The University’s impact is also being cultivated through people. Recognition by the Mail & Guardian of 23 UP-affiliated individuals among the country’s top young leaders underscores our role as a pipeline for socially engaged, futurefocused individuals who are already shaping public life and innovation trajectories.

THE UNIVERSITY OF PRETORIA – ANNUAL REVIEW 2025

Community engagement Community engagement is our way of using our skills,

backgrounds, including science, humanities, and engineering, to

knowledge and research to make a difference and uplift

collaborate on community projects.

communities around South Africa. At UP we integrate community engagement into the curriculum (as a credit-

To further disseminate best practices, a university-wide

bearing component), with 174 modules incorporating

Community Engagement Seminar was held for project leaders,

Curricular Community Engagement (CCE) and 13

students, and community partners to share experiences and

991 students actively participating in these learning

showcase achievements in curricular engagement. Presentations

experiences.

included case studies of successful projects, as well as discussions on approaches to assessing both community impact and student

This engagement covered diverse sites – from the Eskom

learning. The seminar strengthened a growing community of

Expo for Young Scientists to hospitals and welfare

practice around engaged scholarship and fostered collaboration

organisations – and featured a wide array of engagement

across faculties.

locations that included early childhood development centres, animal shelters, schools, clinics, farms and nature reserves.

Building a community One such example is at the Mamelodi Campus, which acts as a gateway for talented students needing to bridge the gap between high school and university. The campus has an established partnership with the Hong Kong Polytechnic University (PolyU) and UP regularly hosts students who share their AI skills with local high school learners to address real-world challenges. In 2025, PolyU students introduced participants to machine learning and block programming, with a particular focus on developing AIdriven solutions to enhance accessibility for individuals with visual impairments.

Architecture Honours students worked with community members in the Melusi informal settlement west of Pretoria to build a timber-clad youth centre. Once an abandoned shack, this new meeting place now allows the Melusi Youth Development Organisation (MYDO) to offer many more important services. This inspiring collaboration received a Maverick Prize at the third annual Timber Design Competition organised by the York Timber Chair in Wood Structural Engineering at UP.

UP’s flagship community site, the Moja Gabedi Community Engagement Hub in Hatfield, continued to demonstrate the value of transdisciplinary engagement. In 2025, more than 200 students from a range of disciplines completed their CCE requirements at the hub. Multidisciplinary student teams worked on initiatives such as urban agriculture to enhance local food security, environmental restoration projects to rehabilitate green spaces, and the “Garden and Bees” initiative, which integrates biodiversity education with sustainable gardening and entrepreneurship

A toolkit for civic engagement A significant milestone in 2025 was the rollout of UP’s Curricular Community Engagement Framework and Toolkit, which provides a structured approach and practical resources for embedding engagement within curricula. The framework places strong emphasis on sustainability and mutual benefit, recognising

training for community members.

community expertise and ensuring that engagement

The Hub reinforces our transdisciplinary teaching and learning

programmes.

activities are rigorously assessed as part of academic

approach, bringing together students and mentors from diverse

Totally Engaged UP honoured the following exceptional academic achievers for their community engagement: •

Professor Nerhene Davis, Department of Geography, Geoinformatics and Meteorology, for introducing a module that integrates academic learning with meaningful community engagement and involves a partnership with the Eersterust Welfare Organisation for the Aged.

•

Mr Hannes Engelbrecht and Dr Charlene Herselman, Department of Historical and Heritage Studies, and Dr Martina Jordaan, Community Engaged Research – Mamelodi. They have built partnerships between the University and surrounding communities, creating engagement that is both collaborative and transformative, to give students opportunities to apply what they learn in the classroom to real-world situations.

Professor Nerhene Davis

Mr Hannes Engelbrecht

Dr Charlene Herselman

Dr Martina Jordaan

Alumni Achievers Our more than 344 000 alumni, represented across multiple continents, continue to act as ambassadors for UP. Just a few achievements in 2025 are mentioned below:

Dr Jemina Moeng

Dr Brenda Akia

Neliswa Cuba won

Monique Dakers

Shakira January

has been appointed

has become the

a South African

is a Manager at Bain

made local sport

as the Agricultural

youngest African

Heroes Awards

& Company’s New

history when she

Attaché to the South

and first Ugandan

(SAHA) accolade

York office, helping

captained the

African Embassy in

to be elected as

in the Community

some of the world’s

women’s water polo

Rome. In her new

the Vice-Chair and

Health category,

leading companies

team at the 2025

role, she will engage

Rapporteur of the

recognising her

solve their toughest

World Aquatics

with global agencies

United Nations

work in nursing

problems.

Championships in

and represent

(UN) Committee

education.

South Africa in key

on the Elimination

the first player of

international food

of Discrimination

colour to captain

security forums.

Against Women

the team at a World

(CEDAW).

Championship.

Singapore. She is

CONTRIBUTING TO GLOBAL WELL-BEING #36 in the world

A thriving network

Our placement for Knowledge Exchange shows what impact we are having through partnerships, collaboration and community engagement.

Community engagement is our way of using our skills, knowledge and research to make a difference and uplift communities around South Africa.

Source: 2026 QS Sustainability Rankings

Collaboration counts 3 000 Number of institutional collaborators across the globe

458

13 991

Students involved in community work

174 Modules incorporating compulsory community work

Number of research-related agreements in place

Global reach One of a kind UP is the only South African member of the Austrian-African Research Network Africa-UniNet

344 828 Alumni around the world

4 511 Number of international students enrolled

INTEGRATED FOR RESILIENT FUTURES

05 SUSTAINABILITY Global leaders in sustainable development

Ongoing social transformation

Financially stable

Innovation for sustainable development

Environmental stewardship

Our sustainable development efforts comprise how we conduct ourselves as a responsible institution as well as our contributions as an agent for societal transformation through the graduates we produce and the new knowledge we create. In our new long-term strategy, THRIVE UP 2038, sustainability is intentionally integrated into the strategy and is no longer a standalone or parallel sustainable development strategy.

Global leader in sustainable development Our performance in the 2026 Quacquarelli Symonds (QS)

UP is ranked in the top 350 worldwide for Equality (329), and

Sustainability Rankings shows we are building on a strong

Impact of Education (300).

foundation. UP secured the 10th spot in the world and the top position in Africa and South Africa in the Governance category. This milestone highlights UP’s institutional leadership, transparency and stakeholder-governance practices. The rankings, which measure performance across various aspects related to the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), featured 2 002 universities. UP ranked 220th globally and improved its overall score from 80.8 in 2024 to 82.8 in 2025.

UP is consistently ranked among the top institutions globally for sustainable development and societal impact. In the 2025 Times Higher Education (THE) Impact Rankings we are ranked 2nd in South Africa and Africa. Standout achievements include ranking 7th globally for SDG 17 (Partnerships for the Goals) and in the top 50 universities globally overall. Only three African universities were ranked in the global top 100, including UP. Another significant achievement is UP’s international ranking of 41 for SDG 16 (Peace, Justice and Strong Institutions), and

UP also ranked in the top 100 in Environmental Education

holding the top position in both Africa and South Africa. This

(100) and in the top 50 globally for Knowledge Exchange (36).

highlights UP’s leading role in promoting peace, justice and

We further improved in Environmental Impact (No. 270

good governance on the continent, all critical foundations for

globally) as well as Social Impact (232). In addition to these,

sustainable development.

Rehabilitation taking place at Moja Gabedi from a dump site to a green space.

THE UNIVERSITY OF PRETORIA – ANNUAL REVIEW 2025

Ongoing social transformation UP’s approach to social transformation is anchored in the Thrive UP 2038 strategy. It is given expression through the

Global recognition •

Conservation Ecology Research Unit, was awarded the

Council-approved Transformation Plan 2023–2027 and the

2025 World Sustainability Award as recognition of his

linked initiative towards a people-centred culture. We have a holistic approach to broadening access and enabling student success and this is reflected in the institutional goal to nurture future-fit graduates who are equipped to thrive and lead in a complex and dynamic world.

Professor Stuart Pimm, extraordinary professor in the

contribution to sustainability and development. •

Dr Ntsako Chauke was awarded the African Research Universities Alliance–Carnegie–Mastercard Fellowship. This competitive fellowship supports early-career African researchers.

Over the five years from 2021 to 2025, UP experienced a notable shift in the racial composition of its student body. The combined representation of African, Coloured, and Indian

Building a community

students – commonly classified as black students – rose

Architecture Honours students worked with community

from 62.57% in 2021 to 71.09% in 2025, marking a significant

members in the Melusi informal settlement west of Pretoria

demographic shift towards a more representative student body.

to build a timber-clad youth centre. Once an abandoned shack, this new meeting place now allows the Melusi Youth

Staff demographics reflect a similar upward trend, with black

Development Organisation (MYDO) to offer many more

staff comprising 70.6% of total staff.

important services.

We have numerous programmes to ensure our staff

This inspiring collaboration received a Maverick Prize at the

receive the development support needed. These include

third annual Timber Design Competition organised by the

academic support such as the New Generation of Academics

York Timber Chair in Wood Structural Engineering at UP.

Programme, where females comprise 66% of the cohort, and the Future Professors Programme aimed at cultivating the next generation of academic leaders in South Africa. Sara Mojapelo, caretaker at the COPC Clinic, is proud to have played a role in the MYDO 2 codesign project.

Effective leadership training takes place through the Leadership Development Programme, Programme for Academic Leadership, and a Management Development Programme. The Women in Leadership programme (LeadHer) was introduced in 2025 to position female staff for success in current and future leadership roles. A total of 30 women participated. In 2025, UP successfully appointed 95 interns, affording them valuable hands-on experience and structured professional development. In addition, 10 learners with disabilities were enrolled in the Business Administration programme at NQF Level 4, with completion anticipated in 2026.

Diversity in practice The Women in Science Symposium, one of our flagship annual events, highlights a deliberate strategy to close gender gaps in research leadership. With women comprising 40% of NRF-rated researchers and holding half of the prestigious SARChI chairs, UP is not merely advocating for inclusion; it is strengthening the diversity and resilience of the research ecosystem.

Financially stable During the year, financial sustainability remained the

Innovation for sustainable development

institution’s top risk. Economic challenges faced by the higher

Innovation is central to our Thrive UP 2038 strategy.

education sector include government subsidies not keeping

Advancing innovation in the academic project means

pace with operating costs; a high staff cost base; the capping

rethinking how programmes are designed and taught,

of tuition fee increases by the Minister of Higher Education

developing graduates who can think creatively and solve

and Training; and high levels of student debt. Efforts to

complex problems, adopting new approaches to research, and

strengthen alternative (third-stream) income and diversify

generating innovations through research.

income sources are ongoing. Our focus extends beyond creating new knowledge. It also We have had to intensely focus on fundraising, and judiciously

emphasises applying existing knowledge in new ways to create

grow our research and industry partnerships. External funds

value and address real-world challenges. This is particularly

increased in 2025 to R756 million (from R663.7 million in

important in supporting Thrive UP 2038’s goal of translating

2024), representing a R92.3 million increase.

knowledge into evidence-informed policy, improved practices, and new products. Across the institution, a wide range of

Total financial aid to UP in 2025 increased by 15% to a total of

activities and initiatives help drive this culture of innovation.

R2 597 million. We made available over R265 million from own funds and administered a further R720 million from outside

•

funds, excluding the National Student Financial Aid Scheme.

The Department of Research and Innovation facilitates technology transfer through its Technology Transfer Office (TTO), which promotes a culture of innovation,

Private funding plays a pivotal role in UP’s growth and

entrepreneurship, and knowledge commercialisation

sustainability, facilitating access and success for students,

within the academic community.

particularly those from disadvantaged backgrounds. The

•

University’s own fundraising efforts managed to raise

TuksNovation supports student entrepreneurs in refining technologies and validating business models for relevant

R1.3 million by the end of 2025.

markets. •

The Graduate School of Technology Management

Through the advisory services, commercial research and

(GSTM) offers internationally recognised postgraduate

continuing education solutions offered by Enterprises

programmes, such as the Master’s in Technology and

University of Pretoria Proprietary Limited (Enterprises UP),

Innovation Management (MTIM).

we generate significant alternative sources of funding. However, in 2025, Enterprises UP recorded a decline in revenue of 11.4%, resulting in a total turnover of R264 million, signalling some pressure on this income stream.

THE UNIVERSITY OF PRETORIA – ANNUAL REVIEW 2025

Environmental stewardship UP has implemented a comprehensive environmental

To strengthen accountability and long-term resilience, we have

sustainability strategy aligned with the Paris Climate

expanded and improved our carbon footprint reporting. By

Agreement and the 2050 Net Zero goals. Through a project

integrating Smart Campus technologies with comprehensive

completed in 2025, the University established a framework

greenhouse gas reporting across Scopes 1, 2, and 3, we now

that meets the requirements of the Intergovernmental Panel

have a more accurate view of our environmental impact and

on Climate Change and promotes greenhouse gas reduction,

operational performance. The 2025 carbon footprint report

sustainable practices, and environmental stewardship across

reflects this enhanced methodology and a shift to a financial

our seven campuses. A key component of this effort is the

control reporting approach, providing a more complete

Smart Campus system, which uses IoT sensors, automated

baseline for measuring emissions across all campuses.

metering, real-time monitoring, and data analytics to track

These measures support regulatory compliance, targeted

energy use, water consumption, waste management,

sustainability investments, and our commitment to meaningful

and carbon emissions, enabling more efficient resource

emissions reductions and climate resilience.

management and informed decision-making.

We regard sustainable development and positive societal impact to be integral to our strategy and identity. Our outlook transcends institutional sustainability, with an intentional focus and coherent suite of efforts that contribute meaningfully towards a better future for South Africa, the African continent and the world.

Professor Francis Petersen, Vice-Chancellor and Principal, involved in the rehabilitation at Moja Gabedi.

Waste not wanted Sustainability, responsible consumption and production are inculcated in students’ thinking and the curriculum. Final-year students from the Department of Consumer and Food Sciences were encouraged to think creatively – and deliciously – around wasted food. UPCycled formed part of their final mark and presentations included staggering statistics on the amount of food wasted globally, as well as treating guests from the food industry, media and academia to spectacular dishes centred around food waste.

Culinary science, hospitality, and retail students who are tackling the challenge of waste.

CUSTODIAN OF THE FUTURE

220

Overall

in the world

10 in the world

Governance

1 in Africa 36 in the world

Knowledge Exchange Environmental Education

100 in the world

Environmental Impact

270 in the world

Social Impact

232 in the world

50%

40%

Female academics hold half of the prestigious SARChI chairs

Female academics who are NRF-rated researchers

35% Less waste generated

Total carbon emissions reduced 15 000 tCO2e

Top sustainability rankings

Source: 2026 Quacquarelli Symonds (QS) Sustainability Rankings

10 000

13 863.17

5 000 3 778.22

2023

2025

Scope 1

Global leader in SDGs UP is ranked in the top 50 universities for four SDGs:

tCO2e

40 000 30 000 20 000

31 597.20 23 698.15

SDG

UP position

Number of universities ranked

1 267

13.6MWp Installed capacity of four new solar PV projects

No Poverty

Decent Work and Economic Growth

2 350

Peace, Justice and Strong Institutions

1 265

Partnerships for the Goals

1 318

2023

Scope 3

2025

Number of additional back-up water tanks constructed

Source: 2025 Times Higher Education (THE) Impact Rankings

BUILDING RESILIENCE TODAY FOR TOMORROW’S IMPACT 56

06 FINANCES Income

Expenses

Student finances

Investments

Conclusion

Consolidated Statement of Financial Position

Consolidated Statement of Profit or Loss

Consolidated Statement of Comprehensive Income

Consolidated Statement of Changes in Funds

Income

The reporting period was characterised by a stable yet constrained macro-economic outlook, defined by low economic growth and persistently high unemployment.

Total income increased by 7.0% in 2025, driven by increases

Inflation remained relatively low throughout the year, and

in subsidies and tuition fees. Third-stream income, which

the introduction of a new 3% inflation target is expected to

includes income from contract and services, donations and

enhance economic stability and help reduce the cost of living.

gifts, and interest and dividends declined by 1.7% due to the challenging economic climate.

The University’s block grant recovered following the previous year’s reduction, largely because enrolment targets for the

Expenses

2023 academic year were achieved. Despite this improvement, the University reported a loss before transfers as operating

Increases in total expenses were contained to 4.5% during

expenses increased significantly, particularly electricity costs

2025 due to various cost containment measures. The

following the City of Tshwane’s repair of metering equipment

overall increase in expenses was largely due to increases in

at the Hatfield and Hillcrest campuses.

personnel costs. Personnel costs as a percentage of revenue remain a critical focus area within the Financial Sustainability

Student debt remains a significant financial risk and has

Plan. Various measures have been implemented to reduce

continued to increase over the past five years, driven by

this percentage, and a decrease was observed in 2025 as a

inadequate funding for the “missing middle” students,

result of these efforts.

broader economic pressures and demand for fee-free higher education.

Student Finances

Income sources, 2023–2025

The growth in outstanding student fees represents a significant financial risk for the University. At the end of the financial year, the University’s gross student debt amounted to R1 080.2 million (2024: R927.9 million). Outstanding student

Subsidy

debt includes amounts for students funded by NSFAS that are

Tuition fees and other fee income

yet to be settled. The rise in student debt can be attributed to several factors,

Third-stream income

including insufficient funding to support “missing middle” students, the ongoing economic decline, the demand for fee-

Net fair value gains/(losses) on investments

10%

15%

20%

25%

30% 2023

35% 2024

40% 2025

free higher education, and the capping of accommodation fees by NSFAS. The provision for bad debt on student receivables amounts to 51.0% (2024: 55.3%) of gross student receivables. The NSFAS accommodation cap of R52 000 resulted in a

Financial sustainability remains the University’s highest

shortfall of R43.9m for student accommodation and is

strategic risk. The Financial Sustainability Plan continues to

included in the provision for outstanding student receivables.

guide efforts to improve operational efficiency, contain costs,

Furthermore, the University continues to face challenges

implement cost-replacement strategies and diversify income

due to delays in NSFAS payments, unexplained defunding of

streams. The plan will be reviewed in 2026 to reflect the

students, and concerns regarding data integrity, which have

evolving financial and operating environment.

added an administrative burden and caused disruptions to students.

THE UNIVERSITY OF PRETORIA – ANNUAL REVIEW 2025

To mitigate the disproportionate growth in outstanding

A notable portion of the portfolio is allocated to foreign

student debt, the University has implemented the following

investments, which has contributed to portfolio stability

initiatives:

despite the volatility in local financial markets. This foreign

•

Requiring students to make an initial payment that is part

investment allocation helps mitigate the risk of price

of the tuition fees, at registration;

fluctuations, effectively leveraging foreign exchange gains.

•

Regular monitoring and increased contact with students holding outstanding debts;

•

Referring long-outstanding student accounts for debt collection;

•

Mandating a 50% deposit for all first-time international students for tuition and accommodation fees; and

•

Foreign Equity

Charging a levy on default accounts to cover related legal tracing fees;

•

Investment portfolio, 2023–2025

Limiting registrations to students with outstanding

SA Equity

Money Market

Bonds

balances until settlement or formal payment arrangements are made.

SA Listed Property

Private Equity

Investments The University’s investment funds serve four key purposes: •

Renewable Energy

Other

To meet the long-term liabilities (5 years and more) of the University. The main requirement is a good investment

10%

20%

30%

40% 2023

return relative to inflation over the long term, and capital

50%

60%

2024

2025

growth; •

To meet medium-term liabilities (3 to 5 years) of the University. The main requirement is to assist with

•

potential liquidity requirements while targeting a reasonable return above inflation;

•

To meet the requirements of a special class of the long-term liabilities, namely the post-retirement medical aid benefits; and

•

To meet the short-term cash requirements of the University (within 24 months). The risk profile emphasises the need for capital protection over short periods and a high degree of liquidity.

Conclusion While the University continues to navigate the financial challenges associated with the higher education sector, the financial year ending 31 December 2025 yielded satisfactory results. This resilience can be attributed to the effectiveness of the Financial Sustainability Plan and the rigorous fiscal discipline maintained throughout the institution. By prioritising budget control and prudent spending, UP remains well-positioned to protect its long-term financial health amidst ongoing economic volatility.

The University aligns its investment philosophy with the term of its liabilities and corresponding risk profiles. To manage these differing needs, four investment portfolios have been established: •

Long-term Capital Portfolio;

•

Medium-term Capital Portfolio;

•

Continuation Medical Aid Portfolio; and

•

Money Market Portfolio.

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENT OF FINANCIAL POSITION As at 31 December 2025 2025 R’000

2024 R’000

NON-CURRENT ASSETS

33 363 225

29 715 517

Property plant and equipment

7 062 667

6 886 373

Right-of-use assets

2 846

4 214

Intangible assets

56 790

62 900

Investments at fair value through other comprehensive income

23 248 334

20 432 095

Investments at fair value through profit and loss

2 100 875

1 505 841

Defined benefit pension plan

538 076

473 914

Defined benefit medical plan

319 843

320 251

Defined benefit/contribution provident plan

14 661

13 052

Loans and receivables

19 059

16 809

Student loans

11 104

8 854

Other receivables

7 955

CURRENT ASSETS

4 022 842

3 928 070

Inventories

29 640

23 996

Investments at fair value through profit and loss

312 208

235 689

1 127 236

831 420

Student receivables

518 612

405 939

Other amounts

608 624

425 481

Cash and cash equivalents

2 553 758

2 836 965

TOTAL ASSETS

37 386 067

33 643 587

Deferred taxation

Receivables and prepayments

THE UNIVERSITY OF PRETORIA – ANNUAL REVIEW 2025

2025 R’000

2024 R’000

32 058 702

28 653 427

9 744 031

8 699 102

Restricted funds

6 846 553

6 625 929

Specific purpose funds

1 326 454

1 285 652

Property plant and equipment funds

5 518 382

5 339 137

1 717

1 140

Council designated funds

15 459 366

13 320 912

Specific purpose funds

12 147 683

10 406 893

Property plant and equipment funds

3 311 683

2 914 019

8 752

7 484

1 777 754

1 703 224

Trade payables accruals and other liabilities

70 606

Lease liabilities

1 422

1 872

1 664 220

1 664 293

41 506

37 059

3 549 611

3 286 936

1 996

3 161

Trade payables accruals and other liabilities

1 046 676

890 068

Deferred income

1 101 116

1 056 897

Contract liabilities

254 555

257 500

Student credits and deposits

464 780

458 582

Agency funds

680 488

620 728

37 386 067

33 643 587

FUNDS AND LIABILITIES TOTAL FUNDS NON-DISTRIBUTABLE RESERVES Fair value reserve on specific purpose funds RESERVE FUNDS

Student accomodation funds

Council controlled unrestricted operating fund NON-CURRENT LIABILITIES

Deferred income Group life assurance liability CURRENT LIABILITIES Lease liabilities

TOTAL FUNDS AND LIABILITIES

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENT OF PROFIT OR LOSS For the year ended 31 December 2025 2025

2024

R’000

TOTAL INCOME

10 014 125

9 341 322

Subsidies and grants

3 531 110

3 241 851

Tuition and other fee income

3 433 285

3 121 117

Income from contracts and services

1 904 006

1 918 114

Donations, gifts and sponsorships

191 487

216 425

SUB-TOTAL: REVENUE

9 059 888

8 497 507

Interest and dividends

581 677

566 663

Net interest income on defined benefit/contribution plans

93 211

108 516

(Loss)/profit on disposal of property plant and equipment

(15 846)

(25 168)

Net fair value gains on financial assets

295 195

193 804

TOTAL EXPENSES

8 959 611

8 573 463

Personnel

5 050 594

4 793 709

9 441

13 713

3 528 863

3 334 049

72 755

117 784

826

861

296 676

312 615

8 959 155

8 572 731

456

732

1 054 514

767 859

Leave cost accrued Other operating expenses Expected credit losses Impairment of property plant equipment and intangible assets Depreciation and amortisation SUB-TOTAL: OPERATING EXPENSES Finance expense

(DEFICIT)/SURPLUS BEFORE TAX Tax expense (DEFICIT)/SURPLUS FOR THE YEAR

(294)

(266)

1 054 220

767 593

THE UNIVERSITY OF PRETORIA – ANNUAL REVIEW 2025

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENT OF COMPREHENSIVE INCOME For the year ended 31 December 2025 2025 TOTAL R’000

2024 TOTAL R’000

(DEFICIT)/SURPLUS FOR THE YEAR

1 054 220

767 593

OTHER COMPREHENSIVE INCOME FOR THE YEAR

2 351 055

2 285 024

Remeasurements on defined benefit pension plan

13 218

16 029

Remeasurements on defined benefit medical plan

(29 980)

(184 596)

Remeasurements on defined benefit/contribution provident plan

160

377

Remeasurements on group life assurance plan

(227)

6 381

Net fair value gains on financial assets

2 367 884

2 446 833

TOTAL COMPREHENSIVE (LOSS)/INCOME FOR THE YEAR

3 405 275

3 052 617

Items that will not be reclassified to profit and loss

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENT OF CHANGES IN FUNDS For the year ended 31 December 2025 Total Funds R’000 BALANCE AS AT 31 DECEMBER 2023: CREDIT

25 600 810

Non-distributable reserves

6 324 811

Council designated funds

12 628 554

Restricted funds

6 647 445

(Deficit)/Surplus for the year

767 593

Other comprehensive income comprising: Remeasurements on defined benefit/contribution plans

(161 809)

Remeasurements on defined benefit medical plan

(184 596)

Remeasurements on defined benefit pension plan

16 029

Remeasurements on defined benefit/contribution provident plan Remeasurements on group life assurance plan

377 6 381

Fair value gains on financial assets

2 446 833

Net transfers from/(to) other funds

Net increase in funds

3 052 617

BALANCE AS AT 31 DECEMBER 2024: CREDIT

28 653 427

Non-distributable reserves

8 699 102

Council designated funds

13 328 396

Restricted funds

6 625 929

(Deficit)/Surplus for the year

1 054 220

Other comprehensive income comprising: Remeasurements on defined benefit/contribution plans

(16 829)

Remeasurements on defined benefit medical plan

(29 980)

Remeasurements on defined benefit pension plan

13 218

Remeasurements on defined benefit/contribution provident plan

160

Remeasurements on group life assurance plan

(227)

Fair value gains on financial assets

2 367 884

Net transfers from/(to) other funds

Net increase in funds

3 405 275

BALANCE AS AT 31 DECEMBER 2025: CREDIT

32 058 702

Non-distributable reserves

9 744 031

Council designated funds

15 468 118

Restricted funds

6 846 553

Moja Gabedi was a former unofficial rubbish dump in Hatfield which UP cleared up and replaced with a thriving community garden. This allows students to work with local residents to grow and harvest fresh fruit and vegetables to address student and community hunger.

UP Annual Review 2025