We Care, Support, Develop, and Advocate #ForStudents #WithStudents #ForGood.
APRIL 2026
1ST EDITION
Exposing students to a cosmopolitan student life and student experience that fosters a sense of belonging and the development of lifelong networks and friendships and offering students a wide range of student development experiences and challenging intellectual engagements that enables them to become active citizens and leaders in all sectors of a diverse society
Jerome September Dean of Student Affairs
Tshegofatso Mogaladi Deputy Dean of Student Affairs
Anne Lunsky Head of the Counselling and Careers Development Unit
Virginia Nobela Acting Head of the Campus Health and Wellness Centre
Mandla Gagayi Director of Wits Sport
Mugwena Director of Campus Housing and Residence Life
Dear Student,
Welcome to the second block of the 2026 academic year at Wits.
Following a successful graduation season, we celebrate the achievements of those who have completed their journey and look ahead to a new chapter with you. Whether you are joining the University for the first time or returning to continue your studies, this moment marks both a continuation and a fresh start.
With classes having begun on 03 February 2026, the year is already in motion. For many, this is the point where routines began to take shape and the reality of the academic journey settled in.
To our first-year students, we hope your transition into university life has been both smooth and enriching. This is a space designed for growth, exploration, and discovery, and we encourage you to make the most of every opportunity available to you.
To our returning students, welcome back. We trust that the return has allowed you to reset, and that you are approaching the year with renewed focus and intention.
The Division of Student Affairs remains committed to supporting your overall wellbeing and development. In collaboration with various University units, we offer a range of services focused on health, emotional support, personal development, and student leadership. These are designed to ensure that you are supported not only academically, but holistically throughout your journey
We encourage you to stay informed by regularly checking your official University email and the Ulwazi student portal for important updates and announcements. Further information on available services and opportunities can be accessed at www.wits.ac.za/students.
As the year unfolds, we invite you to approach it with purpose. Build on what you have already achieved, remain open to new experiences, and take care of your wellbeing along the way. Your time at Wits is not only about academic success, but about shaping the person you are becoming.
We look forward to supporting you throughout the year Stay connected and keep an eye out for upcoming editions of the Student Affairs Newsletter.
www.wits.ac.za/students/student-affairs
The year began on a high note with the Welcome Ceremony held on 18 January 2026, where the Vice Chancellor officially welcomed the incoming first-year class to the University.
This moment set the tone for what lies ahead, one defined by growth, opportunity, and a strong sense of belonging.
From 20 January to 2 February 2026, the University hosted its annual Gateway to Success Programme, an immersive orientation experience designed to support students as they transition into university life. More than just an introduction, the programme created space for students to settle in, build connections, and begin understanding how to navigate the Wits environment with confidence.
Across the two weeks, first-year students engaged in a dynamic range of activities spanning academic preparation, student life, health and wellbeing, and campus orientation. Each element of the programme was intentionally designed to ensure that students not only receive information, but also experience a sense of community from the outset.
The Postgraduate Orientation and Welcome took place from 28 to 30 January 2026, with the main programme held on 28 January To enhance the student experience, the event was hosted across two venues, including the Wits Old Mutual Sports Hall
The programme featured a ceremonial welcome and an address by Lynn Morris, Deputy Vice Chancellor for Research and Innovation. Students were welcomed into a research intensive environment and encouraged to build strong networks, embrace innovation, and engage fully in their postgraduate journey at Wits.
Following the central welcome, the Postgraduate Orientation extended into a series of academic programmes designed to introduce students to faculty specific and degree focused pathways. These engagements provided a more tailored experience, allowing students to connect directly with their academic environments.
The programme included specialised initiatives such as the CARTA workshop, which focused on supporting PhD candidates, alongside faculty based sessions across all five faculties. Together, these platforms ensured that postgraduate students were not only welcomed into the University, but also meaningfully integrated into their respective academic communities.
Beyond academic engagement, the orientation also created space for connection and community building. A range of social events brought postgraduate students together in more relaxed and informal settings
These included an evening of Cocktails on the Concourse, as well as a Postgraduate Association event titled Under the Stars: Sip and Engrave Edition. Together, these experiences offered students the opportunity to connect, build networks, and begin forming a sense of belonging within the postgraduate community
Throughout February 2026, First-Year Experience (FYE) Mentors took part in a series of training sessions designed to strengthen their ability to support and engage their allocated mentees The sessions focused on practical strategies, communication, and understanding the realities of the first-year transition.
With 2,215 first-year students in attendance at these sessions reflected a clear commitment from mentors to play an active role in shaping a supportive and responsive student experience
This preparation culminated on 28 February 2026, when mentors formally connected with their mentees for the first time Despite it being a weekend, firstyear students showed up in significant numbers, creating space for open conversation, guidance, and shared experiences around navigating university life
The Student Transitions and Persistence Unit (STPU), in collaboration with Old Mutual, hosted a Financial Literacy Workshop on 25 and 26 February 2026, aimed at equipping first-year students with the tools to manage their finances with confidence. The workshop moved beyond theory, offering interactive sessions that covered budgeting, saving strategies, debt management, and introductory investment planning Through real-life case studies and handson exercises, students were able to engage directly with scenarios that reflect the financial realities many face.
Participants left with actionable skills, including how to track expenses, build emergency savings, and make informed financial decisions. These are not only essential for student life, but form the foundation for long-term financial wellbeing
During the Gateway to Success Programme in January, from 20 to 22 January, students took part in a meaningful initiative in partnership with Rise Against Hunger The activity centred on packaging nutritious meals for communities facing food insecurity, both locally and globally.
Working in teams, students measured, packed, and sealed food parcels, gaining a practical understanding of collaboration and collective impact. The experience moved beyond volunteering, encouraging reflection on social responsibility and the role students can play in addressing real-world challenges
The first Postgraduate Experience Workshop brought together 498 students to engage with the demands of advanced academic study. Dr. Farai Mlambo opened the session with insights on research ownership, academic resilience, and building effective supervisory relationships, drawing from A Survival Guide for Every Postgraduate Journey.
Facilitated by Prof. Tania van der Merwe, the second session then explored university processes, research planning, and long-term academic positioning. The workshop created space for meaningful reflection on the researcher–supervisor partnership, equipping students with practical strategies to navigate their postgraduate journeys with greater clarity and confidence
The 2026 Wits Spirit Game delivered a day defined by energy, excitement, and celebration. From face painting to interactive challenges, first-year students were fully immersed in the vibrant culture that shapes the Wits experience, with opportunities to engage, connect, and even walk away with prizes.
At the centre of the day was a highly anticipated clash between Wits University FC and Orlando Pirates FC. The match kept spectators on edge, ultimately going to penalties, where the Educated Footballers secured a thrilling 7–6 victory.
More than just a sporting event, the Spirit Game continues to play a key role in building community during orientation week. It brings students together in a shared moment of pride and belonging, while showcasing the dynamic sporting culture that defines life at Wits.
ENERGY, CONNECTION, AND A FRESH START
A much-loved tradition, the 2026 Wits Sport Night Run kicked off at Wits Club n Braamfontein Campus West where the event saw first years, returning students, and staff take on a 5 km route around campus.
More than just a run, it created space for connection, celebration, and community building, offering the perfect opportunity to engage and socialise before the academic year gains full momentum.
FNB Wits Rugby has capped off an exceptional Varsity Shield campaign, finishing the league stages unbeaten and at the top of the log. This dominant run has secured the team automatic promotion to the Varsity Cup, marking a significant milestone in their journey.
Building on early momentum, the team has consistently delivered performances defined by discipline, intensity, and cohesion. Under the leadership of captain Latica Nela, Wits has not only competed, but set the standard throughout the competition.
The achievement reflects more than results on the scoreboard. It speaks to a season of focus, resilience, and collective effort, positioning Wits Rugby among the top contenders as they step up to the next level.
Results from the past fixtures:
FNB WSU 27 - 27 FNB WITS
FNB WITS 51 - 0 FNB UFH
FNB UKZN 3 - 55 FNB WITS
FNB WITS 66 - 22 FNB CPUT
FNB MADIBAZ 8 - 63 FNB WITS
FNB WITS 89 - 7 FNB SPU
FNB UWC 15 - 46 FNB WITS
Semi-Final:
FNB WITS 68 - 10 FNB Madibaz
Upcoming fixtures:
Final:
FNB WITS vs FNB WSU
Friday, 10 April 2026, 18h30, Wits Rugby Stadium
The 2026 Wits Graduate Recruiters Breakfast, held on 13 March at the Anglo American Digital Dome, brought together University leadership and industry partners to strengthen pathways to graduate success.
The Vice Chancellor opened the programme with reflections on the intersection of AI and human-centred skills, while the Dean of Students highlighted the resilience and grit that define Wits graduates. Insights from Leaply focused on data-driven signals shaping employability, complemented by a student voice segment that unpacked current experiences and career readiness needs.
The launch of the Work Ready Gen Z podcast drew strong interest, with Vellantra, Pele, and Entelect committing to sponsorship. The event closed with active networking and renewed partnerships aimed at advancing student success.
February, widely recognised as the month of love, provided a timely opportunity to spotlight conversations around relationships and healthy sexuality The Counselling and Careers Development Unit (CCDU), in collaboration with key stakeholders including the Campus Health and Wellness Centre, the Transformation Office, Drama for Life, the City of Johannesburg, and other partners, led two dynamic awareness campaigns: SexSports and Love Affirmations. (continued on the next page)
Through interactive activities and engagements, the campaigns encouraged open dialogue on sexual health, risk awareness, and responsible decision making. Students were able to access essential services, including HIV testing, PrEP, and reproductive healthcare, while also being introduced to various support services available on campus.
Together, these initiatives reinforced the importance of informed choices, wellbeing, and accessible care within the Wits community
Campus Health Bookings Be a Campus Health Peer Educator
Find out more and get involved with the Counselling and Carees Development Unit
The House Committee team building retreat, held earlier this year, 10-11 January 2026 at Konka, created space for members to strengthen relationships, enhance teamwork, and develop leadership capacity beyond the residence environment.
Through structured activities and guided reflection, committee members engaged in communication, trust building, and problem solving exercises that encouraged collaboration and self awareness. The experience supported alignment between individual roles and shared objectives, reinforcing a sense of unity within the team.
Ultimately, the retreat laid a strong foundation for effective leadership and collaborative functioning across the year.
Orientation Week featured two key ARSC organised events, the First Year Talent Show and First Year Fun Day, both designed to welcome new students and build a sense of belonging.
The Talent Show gave first-year students a platform to showcase their creativity while building confidence and connecting with peers. In contrast, the Fun Day created a relaxed and inclusive environment through games, entertainment, and recreational activities.
Together, these events encouraged meaningful interaction, friendship building, and community integration, contributing to a more connected and engaging first-year experience.
The returning theatre production First Years For Sale, led by acclaimed South African actor Jerry Mofokeng wa Makhetha, brought the first-year experience to life through powerful storytelling.
Using dramatisation, the performance explored the realities many students face, including academic pressure, financial strain, peer influence, and the pull of risky choices. Through relatable characters and engaging scenes, students were encouraged to reflect on their own experiences and decisions.
Balancing humour with serious themes, the production created an accessible and thoughtprovoking space for dialogue. Ultimately, it aimed to equip first-year students with greater awareness, resilience, and the confidence to navigate university life with intention.
Flu vaccination campaign
Date - April to August 2026
Venue - Campus Health, Wits University
First things first
Campaign/Mental Health Talks
Date - 14 & 15 April 2026
Venue - TBC
World Autism Awareness Day
Date - 28 & 29 April 2026
Tobacco Month
Date - 11, 12 & 13 May 2026
Varsity Shield Semi-Final
Date - 3 April 2026
Venue - Rugby Stadium, Wits University
Postgraduate Book Club
Date - 23 April 2026
Venue - Senate Room
Journey of Discovery in China Reflections Seminar
Date - 15 April 2026
Venue - Senate Room
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POSTGRADUATE FUNDING PORTAL
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DISCRETIONARY FUND PORTAL
Visit the student self-service portal and apply for the Discretionary Fund.
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