Latest news with #UJ
TimesLIVE
10 hours ago
- Business
- TimesLIVE
UJ ranked best university in sustainable development in Africa
The University of Johannesburg (UJ) has been ranked as the best university in sustainable development in Africa and 23rd in the world. This is according to the 2025 Times Higher Education (THE) Impact Ratings, which assess universities against the UN's sustainable development goals (SDGs). Western Sydney University in Australia was ranked number one in the world for four consecutive years, followed by Manchester University. The University of Pretoria came in at number 63 in the world. UJ is now ranked among the top 30 universities in the world out of 2,318 institutions evaluated. It ranked in the global top 100 for ten SDGs, with three in the top 10. This includes ranking number two in the world for SDG 1 (no poverty); number four for SDG 8 (decent work and economic growth); and number four for SDG 17 (partnerships for the goals). UJ vice-chancellor and principal Prof Letlhokwa Mpedi said this was a testament to the university's commitment to reimagining higher education as a driver of change. 'These results not only underscore UJ's steadfast commitment to sustainable development, equity and impactful partnerships but also highlight the university's growing influence in tackling global challenges through research, teaching and community engagement,' Mpedi said. 'Our ranking reflects the focused efforts driven by our strategic plan 2035, which is built on three key pillars: societal impact and sustainability, global footprint and partnerships, and technology for the future. These pillars guide our trajectory over the next decade and underpin our dedication to creating a more just, equitable and sustainable future for all.' In a separate global ranking, the university was named the third best university in South Africa after the University of Cape Town (UCT) and the University of the Witwatersrand (Wits). 'Together, the two results signal UJ's rising reputation and consistent excellence across multiple global performance metrics.'
Daily Maverick
10 hours ago
- General
- Daily Maverick
University of Johannesburg secures spot in Times Higher Education University Impact Rankings' global top 30
University of Johannesburg Vice-Chancellor Professor Letlhokwa Mpedi said the prestigious rankings 'measure a university's contribution towards the realisation of sustainable development; it is the impact we have as a university on people'. The University of Johannesburg is now the leading sub-Saharan Africa institution in addressing global challenges through the UN's Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). This is according to the Times Higher Education University Impact Rankings. The University of Johannesburg's (UJ) strong performance in the 2025 rankings, climbing 13 places from its 2024 position of 36th to an outstanding 23rd place globally, highlights its excellence in areas such as environmental sustainability, social inclusion, economic growth and global partnerships — affirming its role as a transformative force in higher education. The university is now ranked among the top 30 universities in the world out of 2,318 institutions evaluated. UJ also performed well in the individual SDG top 10s, taking second place for SDG 1 (no poverty), fourth place for SDG 8 (decent work and economic growth) and joint fourth for SDG 17 (partnerships for the goals). 'We want UJ to be the best university for the world' Daily Maverick spoke to the UJ Vice-Chancellor Professor Letlhokwa Mpedi, who said this milestone was not easy to attain; however, it showed the impact that the university had on people from different communities in South Africa. Mpedi gave examples of some of the work done. 'Through the UJ societal impact project in Limpopo, we adopted villages and a high school, working with generous donors. We are addressing food insecurity. 'We've got carriages that we have set up there, helping gogos, but there are children in a high school called Hanyani High School; they leave home at 4am to be at school at 8am. We have assisted with internet and water,' said Mpedi. Another example included work done in the Eastern Cape. 'There's a village where we set up hydro panels. There was a water issue, and through these hydro panels we harvest water from the atmosphere; these hydro panels harvest 8,000 litres of potable water,' said Mpedi. Speaking about eradicating poverty, Mpedi said challenges such as poverty, hunger, and unemployment must be dealt with by coming up with new solutions. 'Many of our students are the first generation to come to varsity, and student hunger is a big issue. We have a feeding programme for our needy students, and it's not a lousy meal. It's like Cheesy Rice and peanut butter, and we work with generous donors; also, the university invests some of its money… 'We've got lots of free land that is not being used. The aim is to show people that you can grow your food,' said Mpedi, who has held several senior academic and leadership positions. He served as Executive Dean of the Faculty of Law, followed by his appointment as Deputy Vice-Chancellor: Academic. Since 2023, Mpedi has been the vice-chancellor and principal of the university. For the Impact Ranking achievement, he thanked the students and his staff who had worked brilliantly. 'I would say to them, 'Thank you so much. The hard work is making a huge difference out there. It's giving people hope.' We are transforming lives,' said Mpedi. Among other African universities that have made it to the top 100 is the University of Pretoria, which is now ranked 63, down from 42. Nigeria's Afe Babalola University is in joint 84th position, up from the 101-200 band. DM
The Citizen
3 days ago
- Sport
- The Citizen
Olympic gymnast graduates from UJ
Growing up as an athlete in a minority sport, Caitlin Rooskrantz has long understood the challenges of underrepresentation. 'That's something I became very passionate about over the years as a gymnast,' she explained. 'It's also why I chose to study marketing – so I can one day empower young athletes, in all kinds of sports, to grow their personal brands and create a meaningful presence.' Read more: Gold Reef Rhythmic Gymnastics Club gymnasts strut their stuff on the international stage Her decision to pursue a BCom in Marketing Management was driven by a desire to change how minority sports are perceived and supported. In May, that vision took a significant step forward, when Caitlin graduated from the University of Johannesburg (UJ). The moment was shared with her closest supporters – her parents and long-time coach, Ilse Pelser. She reflected on how special the day was, as she marked the occasion in a cream dress with a bow detail, also wearing an Olympic pendant necklace in honour of her sporting journey. In 2024, Rooskrantz represented South Africa at the Paris Olympic Games, proudly serving as one of team SA's flag bearers during the opening ceremony. 'It was my first graduation, so, I didn't know what to expect,' she said. 'But having my parents, and Coach Ilse, there made it unforgettable. Coach Ilse has been with me for 15 years. Sharing that moment with her and my family was incredibly meaningful.' Rooskrantz admits that the past three years were some of the most challenging of her life, both academically and athletically, but they were also among the most rewarding. Also read: These 3 Gold Reef Rhythmic Gymnastics Club gymnasts had a great 2024 A two-time Olympian, World Cup gold medalist, and African champion, Rooskrantz has always approached life with discipline. Since high school, she's juggled intense gym sessions – six days a week, four hours a day – with academic commitments. 'This routine started in high school and helped prepare me for the much heavier university workload.' Time management was key. Rooskrantz would co-ordinate with her coach every semester, carefully planning her training and academic schedule. 'As a high-performing athlete, you can't cut training hours and expect the same results. You have to plan smartly and put in the work.' Her typical day included an early two-hour gym session, a full day of university classes, followed by another three hours of training in the evening. She also worked closely with her lecturers to stay ahead of assignments and coursework – especially when travelling for competitions, using her free time, even while travelling, to catch up or get ahead on schoolwork. 'It was demanding, especially during the competition season, but with the right support, and a strong work ethic, I made it work.' Follow us on our Whatsapp channel, Facebook, X, Instagram and TikTok for the latest updates and inspiration! Have a story idea? We'd love to hear from you – join our WhatsApp group and share your thoughts! Related article: Newlands gymnasts find their way to the winners podium
IOL News
12-06-2025
- IOL News
The dark reality of mob justice in Limpopo: Vigilantism and brutal murders of accused people
IOL has spoken to crime analyst Calvin Rafadi, a research associate at the University of Johannesburg (UJ), who welcomed the recent sentencing of individuals involved in acts of mob justice, also known as vigilantism. Image: File South Africa has witnessed countless cases of mob justice, where community members viciously attack crime-accused individuals, often beating and burning them to death. The trend is particularly prevalent across the Limpopo province, and IOL has reported on numerous incidents where alleged criminals are at times tortured and brutally killed by the angry community members. IOL has spoken to crime analyst Calvin Rafadi, a research associate at the University of Johannesburg (UJ), who welcomed the recent sentencing of individuals involved in acts of mob justice, also known as vigilantism. In the latest incident, the High Court in Polokwane has convicted and sentenced 57-year-old Daniel Komana from Ga-Mothapo village, to two life terms of imprisonment for two counts of murder. Komana was also sentenced to a fine of R8,000, or four years' imprisonment, half of which is suspended for three years, for two counts of assault with intent to cause grievous bodily harm. Get your news on the go, click here to join the IOL News WhatsApp channel. Komana's co-accused, 71-year-old Rampedi Jeriel Malatjie from Ga-Molepo, was sentenced to a fine of R8,000 or four years' imprisonment, wholly suspended for three years, for two counts of assault with intent to cause grievous bodily harm. Video Player is loading. Play Video Play Unmute Current Time 0:00 / Duration -:- Loaded : 0% Stream Type LIVE Seek to live, currently behind live LIVE Remaining Time - 0:00 This is a modal window. Beginning of dialog window. Escape will cancel and close the window. Text Color White Black Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Background Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Transparent Window Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Transparent Semi-Transparent Opaque Font Size 50% 75% 100% 125% 150% 175% 200% 300% 400% Text Edge Style None Raised Depressed Uniform Dropshadow Font Family Proportional Sans-Serif Monospace Sans-Serif Proportional Serif Monospace Serif Casual Script Small Caps Reset restore all settings to the default values Done Close Modal Dialog End of dialog window. Advertisement Next Stay Close ✕ Ad Loading Mmanaka Phillemon Rasehlo, 57, also from Ga-Molepo, was handed a fine of R8,000 or four years' imprisonment, half of which is suspended for three years for two counts of assault with intent to cause grievous bodily harm. All three men - Komana, Malatjie and Rasetlo - had pleaded not guilty to the charges. The court heard that on 21 October 2019, a group of cattle owners from Sebjeng village arrived at the homestead of two accused men, Mack Leposha Mashapa and Makhotla Geoffrey Thabana. The mob forcibly took them to the Sebjeng community hall, where they were interrogated and brutally assaulted. Mashapa and Thabana were later taken to nearby bushes, where they were burned to death. Key witnesses, including the wives of the deceased men, testified regarding the events which led to the horrific murders. The matter was reported to the police at Mankweng, who responded the next morning. Komana, Malatjie and Rasetlo were arrested shortly thereafter. In aggravation of sentence, state advocate Muneiwa Ratshibvumo argued that violent crimes of this nature are widespread, and that strong punitive measures are necessary to deter communities from taking the law into their own hands. The court accepted that the crimes were premeditated and motivated by personal grievances. Advocate Ratshibvumo emphasised that the accused, as mature adults, should have acted more responsibly. Limpopo spokesperson for the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) Mashudu Malabi-Dzhangi said the High Court in Polokwane has sent a strong message against mob justice by sentencing the key perpetrator to two life terms for the brutal abduction, assault, and murder of the two men. 'This landmark judgment reaffirms the rule of law and makes it clear that those who take justice into their own hands will face serious consequences,' said Malabi-Dzhangi. 'The National Prosecuting Authority remains committed to holding perpetrators accountable and delivering justice for victims of senseless violence.' Meanwhile, director of public prosecutions in Limpopo, advocate Ivy Thenga has welcomed the sentences as a deterrent to would-be offenders. In an interview with IOL regarding the scourge of vigilantism, crime researcher Rafadi acknowledged the high levels of crime in the country and the widespread frustration it causes among citizens. However, Rafadi emphasized the importance of communities allowing law enforcement agencies to carry out their duties in accordance with the law. 'We are all affected and frustrated by the scourge of crime, but we must give law enforcement a chance to do their work. They are the ones mandated to uphold the law and they have all the tools,' said Rafadi. He appealed to politicians, and public figures to highlight the blight of mob justice and vigilantism. Rafadi warned that such acts amount to 'kangaroo courts' that often result in severe harm and sometimes death of innocent people. Veteran forensic investigator, Calvin Rafadi. Image: Jonisayi Maromo/IOL 'Mob justice is not only unlawful, it is also a serious crime that reflects deep-seated hatred and mistrust within our communities,' he said. Rafadi said citizen arrests are legal in South Africa, and empowers communities only to arrest criminals peacefully and hand them over to the police. IOL News
Express Tribune
04-06-2025
- Sport
- Express Tribune
Cristiano Ronaldo scores as Portugal beat Germany – Watch highlights as they reach UEFA Nations League 2025 final on Sunday
Cristiano Ronaldo scored his 137th international goal Wednesday night as Portugal defeated Germany 2-1 in Munich to reach the UEFA Nations League final, set to be played on Sunday. Ronaldo's goal proved decisive as Portugal came from behind to beat the Germans on home soil for the first time since 2000. At age 40, Ronaldo tapped in Nuno Mendes' low cross in the 68th minute, capping a five-minute turnaround that began with Francisco Conceição's equaliser. Cristiano Ronaldo goal vs Germany 🐐 — UJ (@uj_SZN) June 4, 2025 Conceição's goal came 25 years after his father, Sérgio Conceição, scored a hat-trick against Germany at Euro 2000. The younger Conceição's contribution ensured Portugal a place in their second Nations League final, having won the inaugural edition in 2019. Portugal will now face the winner of France vs Spain on June 8th's final, also in Munich. 🚨🇪🇺 GOAL | Germany 1-1 Portugal | Francisco Conceicao WHAT A BEAUTIFUL GOAL FROM FRANCISCO CONCEICAO !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! — Tekkers Foot (@tekkersfoot) June 4, 2025 The match opened with a cautious first half, ending 0-0. Germany broke the deadlock shortly after the restart when Florian Wirtz headed in Joshua Kimmich's lofted pass on 48 minutes. Kimmich was making his 100th appearance, while Wirtz, reportedly close to a $139 million move to Liverpool, gave the hosts an early advantage. Roberto Martínez's side responded with intensity. Portugal have won a competitive match vs Germany for the first time since 2000. — StatMuse FC (@statmusefc) June 4, 2025 Substitute Conceição levelled in the 63rd minute, five minutes after coming on, cutting inside from the right and curling past Marc-André ter Stegen. Portugal contested the goal, claiming Nick Woltemade had obstructed Rúben Dias in the build-up, but referee Slavko Vinčić allowed it to stand after a VAR review. Just moments later, Mendes found Ronaldo unmarked in front of goal to complete the comeback. Germany pushed for an equaliser and came closest when Karim Adeyemi struck the post late on, but Portugal held firm to record their first competitive victory over Germany since UEFA Euro 2000. It marked the second major fixture at the Allianz Arena in a week, following PSG's victory in the UEFA Champions League final last Saturday. France and Spain contest the second semi-final on Thursday in Stuttgart. The final is set for Sunday June 8th in Munich.
