The University of Johannesburg is celebrating major achievements in research, artificial intelligence, literature and student development, with 19 researchers recognised by ASSAf and two students selected for an international AI learning programme in Silicon Valley.
The University of Johannesburg (UJ) continues to strengthen its position in South African higher education following a series of academic and student achievements announced by Vice-Chancellor and Principal Professor Letlhokwa Mpedi.
In his message to the university community on 30 October 2026, Professor Mpedi highlighted the institution’s growing contribution to research, technological innovation, academic development and community engagement.
The announcement also celebrated the success of UJ students at a national reading competition, the launch of a new book by former university Chancellor Professor Njabulo Ndebele, and the importance of youth participation in South Africa’s democratic processes.
19 UJ Researchers Earn Prestigious National Recognition
The University of Johannesburg is celebrating the election of 19 researchers to the Academy of Science of South Africa (ASSAf), while three additional UJ academics were elected to the South African Young Academy of Science (SAYAS).
The new members were inaugurated during an annual awards ceremony held in Johannesburg on 29 October 2026.
Election to these prestigious scientific organisations recognises outstanding academic contributions, research excellence, scientific leadership and work that benefits society.
Professor Mpedi described the achievement as an important reflection of the university’s research strength and intellectual contribution to South Africa.
He noted that recognition by ASSAf and SAYAS not only celebrates individual researchers but also enhances UJ’s reputation as an institution committed to producing knowledge that addresses real-world challenges.
The achievement reinforces the university’s commitment to research, innovation and evidence-based solutions that contribute to sustainable development.
Two UJ Students Selected for Presidential AI Programme in Silicon Valley
Two University of Johannesburg students are preparing for an international learning experience after securing places in the Presidential Artificial Intelligence (AI) Student Cohort.
The students will travel to Silicon Valley in the United States from 15 to 20 November 2026, joining a national delegation comprising students from universities and Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) colleges across South Africa.
The selected UJ representatives are:
- Donnell Naidoo – Advanced Diploma in Business Information Technology.
- Mufhumudzi Muthivhi – PhD in Computer Science.
The programme will expose participants to some of the world’s leading technology companies, academic institutions, innovators and venture-capital organisations.
The planned engagements include the Stanford Graduate School of Business and the Google/Alphabet/Google DeepMind campus.
The initiative aims to strengthen technological and educational relationships between South Africa and the United States while creating opportunities for collaboration, student exchanges and skills development.
For the two UJ students, the visit presents an opportunity to engage with international experts and gain valuable insight into developments in artificial intelligence, superintelligence and emerging technologies.
Their selection also highlights the importance of developing South African talent capable of contributing to the future of technology and innovation.
Professor Njabulo Ndebele Launches New Book Exploring Mdantsane’s Boxing Legacy
Former UJ Chancellor and respected South African academic and writer Professor Njabulo Ndebele has launched a new book exploring the remarkable boxing history of Mdantsane township in the Eastern Cape.
The book, titled Boxers Die Alone: Reflections on Boxing in the Eastern Cape, was launched at the Johannesburg Institute for Advanced Study (JIAS).
The discussion was moderated by Professor Siphiwo Mahala, Acting Director of JIAS, with the conversation examining the historical and cultural significance of boxing in Mdantsane.
Between 1970 and 2010, the township produced 22 world boxing champions and 50 national champions, establishing an extraordinary sporting legacy.
In his publication, Professor Ndebele draws on his longstanding interest in boxing to explore the experiences of three celebrated fighters:
- Nkosana “Happy Boy” Mgxaji
- Vuyani “The Beast” Bungu
- Nkosinathi “Mabhere” Joyi
The book goes beyond sporting achievements to examine the influence of poverty, apartheid-era displacement, personal ambition, discipline and community on the development of successful boxers.
It also reflects on how individuals and communities overcome difficult circumstances to create lasting legacies.
The launch brought together discussions about sport, history, politics and the social forces that have shaped Mdantsane’s identity as one of South Africa’s most celebrated boxing communities.
UJ ReaBala Reading Club Wins National Awards
The University of Johannesburg’s ReaBala Reading Club has earned national recognition following an impressive showing at the 16th FundaMzantsi National Competition.
The event took place in George, Western Cape, from 28 September to 2 October 2026, bringing together 298 reading clubs from across the country.
UJ participated with a delegation of 23 students who competed in activities including debating, book reviews, impromptu reading and spelling competitions.
Two students delivered particularly impressive performances:
- Vunwe Rikhotso secured first place in the Xitsonga book review category and third place in impromptu reading.
- Lesego Mabuza achieved second place in Setswana impromptu reading.
The ReaBala Reading Club, which means “we read” or “we are reading”, aims to develop a culture of reading among students, particularly first-year students and those enrolled in extended programmes.
The initiative promotes African literature and encourages students to use reading as a tool for personal growth, academic improvement and meaningful conversations.
Through workshops and reading activities, the club also helps students strengthen their comprehension, communication and examination preparation skills.
UJ students interested in joining the initiative can contact Reabala@uj.ac.za for more information.
Professor Mpedi Calls on South Africans to Participate in Local Government Elections
Professor Mpedi also used his message to encourage South Africans, particularly young people, to participate in the country’s democratic processes.
With local government elections scheduled for Wednesday, 4 November 2026, he urged members of the university community to exercise their constitutional right to vote.
The Vice-Chancellor emphasised the importance of preparing young people to become responsible citizens who understand democracy, human rights and their role in shaping society.
He referred to his 2024 Daily Maverick article, titled Mobilising young voters is key to revitalising democracy in South Africa, which highlights the importance of youth participation in strengthening democratic institutions.
Professor Mpedi’s message served as a reminder that universities have a role beyond academic teaching and research: they must also encourage civic responsibility and contribute to the development of informed citizens.
UJ Strengthens Its Position in Research, Innovation and Higher Education
The latest achievements highlight the diverse ways in which the University of Johannesburg continues to contribute to South Africa’s academic and social development.
From researchers receiving national recognition and students gaining international exposure to literary scholarship and national reading competition success, UJ is celebrating progress across several important fields.
Professor Mpedi’s message reinforces the importance of universities as centres of knowledge production, innovation and leadership development.
The achievements also demonstrate how education, research, technology, literature and sport can contribute to building a stronger and more knowledgeable society.
