New Head of Origins Centre
Dr Tammy Hodgskiss Reynard, known as the ‘Ochre Lady’, assumes leadership of the Origins Centre as it celebrates 20 years.
Grooming minors through gambling-like gaming practice
Gaming is often benign, however, certain digital gaming environments expose minors to gambling‑like behaviour.
Turn your moves into meals
What if your daily workout could help feed a child in need? From 10–27 March 2026, Witsies have an opportunity to turn physical activity into meaningful impact.
50 is the new 60
Africa’s population is living longer but not necessarily healthier. Research on brain health, gut health and robust policy can change this phenomenon.
World Glaucoma Week
Stop the thief of sight. Glaucoma is known as the thief of sight because it usually develops slowly and without pain or early symptoms.
Tech Pro opens her art exhibition
Wits ICT staff Mihle Sopam steps out from behind the console and into the spotlight with her first public offering - Rebirth of Africa.
Empowering Wits’ newest academics
New members to the academy find support through the CLTD programme.
Witsie Shop Opens
Wearing the Brand. Living the Legacy. For Good
Staff thoughts on 2026
What's top of mind for Witsies as they look ahead.
Our early adopters of LinkedIn Learning
Nearly 100 staff members have already started building new skills through LinkedIn Learning.
Join the Staff Sport Club
Physical wellness should be high on everyone’s list of goals this year, as a healthy body supports a healthy mind.
Welcome back, Witsies!
Professor Zeblon Vilakazi, Vice-Chancellor and Principal of Wits University, welcomes staff and students to a new academic year.
Upgrade your skills with LinkedIn Learning
The Human Resources Development Unit (HRDU) has partnered with LinkedIn Learning to support professional development and continuous learning.
The most powerful drug of all
It’s a simple premise, movement is medicine – not just a mantra for gym buffs and marathon runners. It’s a prescription for a good life.
Back to School: lunchboxes need more thought
Why your child’s midday meal actually matters, and how to stop the sandwich rebellion.
Advancing meaningful collaborations for Wits
International partnerships are critical for the University says Dr Samia Chasi, Head of the Wits Internationalisation and Strategic Partnerships Office.
Wits VC calls for strong B20 partnerships to grow health innovation in Africa
Prof. Zeblon Vilakazi joins global leaders at B20 to highlight how cross-sector partnerships can turn science into real health impact and economic resilience.
Surprising books by Witsies
Staff reveal their dynamic and creative sides by penning books outside their field of expertise. From an accountant, security exec to an evolutionary biologist
Books transformed into Xmas trees
Wits University’s 11 libraries have ushered in the festive season with a creative challenge that is turning heads and delighting patrons.
Leadership development is actively underway
Two new leadership programmes were piloted in 2025, and more opportunities will open in 2026.
Building communities of belonging in academia
New Head of Postgraduate Studies and Researcher Development aims to cultivate connections and shared growth to ward off postgrad isolation.
Curiosity and passion drives visionary ‘knowledge worker’
‘Research leadership cannot be reduced to a technical enterprise. It must be innovative,’ says new Research Director.
Realise your full potential as a ‘pracademic’
[Column] Professional and administrative services in universities can contribute significantly to academic and research output.
Honouring a lifetime of dedication
It was a bittersweet retirees’ celebration – emotional on the one hand and celebratory on the other.
Celebrating a lifetime of service
Professor Ruksana Osman, the Senior Deputy Vice-Chancellor: Academic honoured for her contribution to education for over 40 years.
Recognising Service Excellence in Higher Education
Tasneem Wadvalla honoured for excellence in University service
Excellence, relevance and societal impact celebrated at VC’s Awards
Wits champions and values celebrated at the 2025 Vice-Chancellor’s Awards.
Wits Staff Sport Club wins bronze at national tournament
New successes recorded as staff deliver standout performances alongside peers.
What I learned on my journey through breast cancer
In Breast Cancer Awareness Month, everyone should contribute in whatever way they can to a cancer survivor’s remission.
That’s Kendal on TV
Kendal Makgamathe from the Vice-Chancellor's Office doubles up as news anchor on ENCA over weekends.
Staff Wellness Week 2025 – healthier Witsies
Wellness Week brings care closer, supporting staff to lead healthier, balanced lives.
Lenn Smith Race - where summer confronts winter
The 37th Lenn Smith Campus Race/Walk delivered as promised, igniting energy and highlighting campus connections.
Wits Dean to spearhead Student Affairs nationally as SAASSAP President
The Dean of Student Affairs, Jerome September, has been elected President of the South µÚÒ»³Ô¹ÏÍø Association of Senior Student Affairs Professionals.
Five years of nurturing female academic leaders
The Female Academic Leaders Fellowship marked this milestone with high-powered discussions on gender, followed by a ‘fireside chat’ with students.
A deeply personal journey
Once a cleaner and secretary, Dr Millicent Motheogane’s drive to attain a PhD was a fight against poverty and a quest for representation.
Drama therapists becomes 5th PhD holder in SA
Dr Linda Mdena-Thibedi has achieved a milestone by becoming the fifth and the youngest female PhD graduate in Drama Therapy.
'Witsies lead, inspire and are a beacon of hope in society' — VC
"As we cross the halfway mark of 2025, it gives me pleasure to reflect on the collective achievements of our academics, staff, students and alumni."
What does it really take to become a Professor?
A global study of 532 promotion policies from 121 countries explored what really matters when universities decide who should become a full professor.
AET and learnership programmes are back
The adult education and training (AET) programme empowers employees with literacy, numeracy, lifelong learning, and personal growth skills.
Kabelo Mocwane leads maintenance and operations at Wits
Infrastructure management is key to delivering high-quality education and the state of immovable infrastructure contributes to students and staff experiences.
Happy feet through “walk a child to school”
With the combined efforts of staff and students, almost 600 pairs of school shoes were donated to children in need at Mid-Ennerdale Primary School.
Tinyiko Mahlaule is reimagining utilities at Wits
Mahlaule, Deputy Director of Energy, Utilities and GMR Compliance, leads a dedicated team of professionals supporting the academic project.
Excellence is not enough - leadership conversation
Diverse views and experiences brought to the table as heads of school and mid-career academics tackle big questions around leadership.
Meet Jabu Mashinini, Head of Student Governance
In a world where student activism can be complex and demanding, Mashinini offers a calm and consistent presence.
Reshaping attitudes towards learning
Early-career academics teaching undergraduate levels embrace their role in helping students move from memorising facts to integrated learning.
We need to do better for our youth
Approximately 51% of the youth from poorer households in Gauteng are not satisfied with their life, and 39% report feeling alienated.
Balancing ambition and an invisible chronic condition
Reasonable accommodation ensured that an early diagnosis did not get in the way of a successful academic career.
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Open repository advocate appointed to global committee
Lazarus Matizirofa (Matizi) has been appointed to the International Open Repositories Steering Committee (ORSC) serving from 2025 to 2027.
Unsung Heroes
Itumeleng Molefe follows in his father’s footsteps to unearth the links to humanity’s deep past.
Wits' commitment to social justice
Wits stands firmly against all forms of bullying, discrimination and gender-based harms, recognising that these injustices undermine the rights of individuals.
A milestone for employee and family
Former call centre agent Oliver Niewenhuys has achieved a family dream by completing a BA in Organisational Psychology and Management, with distinction.
Shaping Democracy: Thandiwe Matthews on Law, Justice, and Freedom
Academic and lawyer reflects on career-shaping events and the impact of participating in a newly published Compendium of Judgments of Justice Albie Sachs.
Staff sport gains momentum
Organised staff sport is blossoming across the sector and Wits staff teams are steadily building their reputation.
A father’s compassion helps students
Motivated by stories shared by his daughter about student hardship, Mukhuva Baloyi has been delivering monthly care packages to the Wits Food Bank since 2019.
From kitchen to grad stage: Dining Hall queen bags her Wits degree!
Wits staff member, graduates with a BA in Political Studies, proving that hard work pays off. Her story is goals.
Trailblazing cyber law in Africa
CDTA recipient Dr Nomalanga Mashinini made history as the chair of the first-ever µÚÒ»³Ô¹ÏÍø Cyber Law Conference (ACLC).
Harshila Dulabh - expertly guiding Business Intelligence at Wits
As one of the first women to study computers at Wits in the mid-80s, Dulabh has always had the ability to see new paths and harness the power of data.
Retirement reimagined
“As people live longer, retirement is evolving from a single event to a life stage transition that can take 10 to 15 years.”
Balancing work and workouts: Staff share what drives their fitness goals
Staff members are proving that maintaining a healthy lifestyle is possible, even with a packed calendar.
On a journey to self-empowerment
Once a cashier at a cafeteria on campus, Mpumi Ngceni has now progressed to join Campus Protection Services.
Burnt out?
Experts in psychiatry, psychology, and ergonomics explain how burnout manifests and what we can do about it.
Regular physical activity before cancer diagnosis may lower progression and death risks
Even relatively low levels of physical activity may be advantageous, findings from a study led by Wits Sport and Health (WiSH) show.
The future of work – A flicker of a silver lining
With a disastrously high unemployment rate and inequality, South Africa has a mountain to climb, but there is hope.
Using your own tech for work? Why it’s a security hazard
Letting employees use their own devices such as laptops and phones for work has many benefits – and many risks, too.
Extending a hand to the homeless
Shalati Mabunda, a staff member at the Education campus has embraced the spirit of giving instilled her and now provides hot meals to the homeless.
Helping boys to stay on track
A Zandspruit project by Dr Josephine Lalle provides mentorship and improves literacy amongst male adolescents.
Campus Cat-alysts: caring beyond the call of duty
Driven by compassion, a devoted team of selfless Wits staff continues with their noble efforts to control and nurture the ever-present feral cat population.
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Giving back to one’s high school brings joy
Charity begins at home, and Bruce Mothibedi has helped build a network of dedicated alumni at his high school in Soweto.
Holiday list by Wits musicians for your listening pleasure
Music lecturers share their favourite music compositions drawing on their creative work and those of others, expanding our appreciation of the vast genres.
Giving back through empowering future leaders
Discover how a driven Wits employee balances his professional life with an unwavering desire to make a difference in people’s lives.
Tribute to Prof. Chabani Manganyi
Prof. Manganyi, an academic and the first black psychologist, made an invaluable contribution to the discipline and higher education.
Retirees' Lunch adds sparkle to milestones
Farewell to friends, mentors and leaders who have been an integral part of Wits' story and mission to build a better South Africa and reimagine the world.
University sport a space to effect growth
Student athletes and spectators contribute to a vibrant student experience says Wits Sports Director.
Academic staff celebrated at annual awards
The VC’s awards pay tribute to individual and collective achievements that drive Wits’ reputation as the home of academic excellence and a leader in society.
Trailblazers in ‘support services’ power Wits’ mission
Wits administrative staff who are behind the success of the University’s academic and research operations have been recognised at the VC's Awards.
Christopher Gevers to lead the Centre for Applied Legal Studies
The Centre focuses on public interest law using a combination of research, advocacy and litigation to advance human rights and social justice.
Reflecting on Tito Mboweni’s legacy
Former finance minister and Reserve Bank governor Tito Mboweni, served as an Honorary Professor at Wits.
Wits staff shine at national sport tournament
Staff teams deliver impressive performances and bring home a bronze medal.
Create a caring, nurturing culture at work
Today is World Mental Health Day with an urgent call to action for employers: 'It is time to prioritise Mental Health in the workplace'.
Deaf film producer and author leads new internship programme
Personal and community experiences inform the work of this multi-talented Deaf culture advocate.
New Head of the School of Electrical and Information Engineering
Professor Cuthbert Nyamupangedengu takes on the role of the Head of School of Electrical and Information Engineering with effect from 1 October 2024.
Caring for trees and the future
The Services Department commemorated Arbor Day with a special initiative emphasising continuity and sustainability.
Heritage month opens the door to see the world differently
A celebration like no other as staff lunch in the dark.
Wits Up! Celebrating what it means to be a Witsie
Students, staff, and friends of Wits took it to the streets of Braamfontein for the annual Wits Parade Day.
Staff advance through learnership programme
It was a joyous occasion as 83 staff members graduated from the Learnership in Business Administration aimed at supporting staff yet to complete matric.
A time to mingle and flex
Staff Wellness Week a full experience of health, fitness and fun.
The passing of Dr Kgomotso Kasonkola
It is with great sadness that the University announces the passing of Dr Kgomotso William Kasonkola, the Senior Director of Human Resources at Wits University.
Back pain in the Workplace
More than 1 in 4 working adults experience lower back pain which is growing work-related health problem.
Professional Development – get ready for 2025
Prioritise acquiring more skills instead of amassing formal qualifications, staff advised during a webinar by the Human Resource Development Unit.
Take control of your financial health
Tips to manage debt and financial anxiety. According to the National Credit Regulator, 40.5% of credit active individuals have an impaired credit record.
Wits appoints new CEO for WitsPlus
Natalie Zimmelman is a business leader dedicated to the development of skills, leadership, and professionalism.
Wits chairs national forum to tackle student finance issues
Ismail Soobader will chair the Board of the SA Student Finance Forum (SASFF – the Forum) until 2027.
Witsies Connect uncovers shared interests
Wits staff break down institutional silos as they pause and step out of their usual routine.
Arm yourself against flu this winter
The flu season is upon us and several institutions are reporting an increase in the number of flu cases, says Higher Health.
Stepping up to the task
Juliet Ndlovu, an Operations Administrative Assistant, is adding sign language to her skills so that she can converse with colleagues.
Wits remains an attractive employer
Wits University is a competitive employer in the higher education sector and beyond, says Senior Director of Human Resources.
Making difficult decisions
Workers’ Day feature: the Director of Employee Relations at Wits chats about her role, love for the law and balancing PhD studies with motherhood.
Staff reflect on their employee experience
International Workers Day, celebrated annually on 1 May, is an opportunity for employees and employers alike to reflect on the workplace.
Connect with Witsies from other departments
How much do you know about colleagues in the office next to you? It's time to be part of Witsies Connect.
Opening cross-boundary synergies across Wits
Academics and professional staff form new networks.
Are you sitting too long in your office job?
Office workers are sedentary for hours at a time. Our research looked at what they should do to stay healthy.
Remembering Eddie Webster: A man of boundless curiosity
Professor Eddie Webster was remembered as a beacon of wisdom.
Empowering academic fellows to share their impact
The Wits Carnegie Diversifying the Academy (CDTA) Programme recently hosted its inaugural Pioneering Science Communications Workshop.
Political theorist Achille Mbembe named 2024 Holberg Prize Laureate
The Holberg Prize is one of the largest international prizes awarded annually to an outstanding researcher in the humanities, social sciences, law or theology.
Accolades for advancing public health, for good
Medals for health scientists at South µÚÒ»³Ô¹ÏÍø Medical Research Council (SAMRC) Scientific Merit Awards.
One of the pioneer scholar-activists at Wits
Edward Webster: South µÚÒ»³Ô¹ÏÍø intellectual, teacher, activist, a man of great energy and integrity, and the life and soul of any party.
The ‘Sociology Madala’ who shaped the way we think
Eddie Webster was the ultimate socially engaged academic who played a key role in the labour movement.
Wits mourns the loss of Professor Eddie Webster
It is with great sadness that we learnt of the passing of Professor Edward (Eddie) Webster (82), who passed away yesterday after a short illness.
New copyright bill gives Deaf and blind people a fair deal
The mother tongue for millions of Deaf people in South Africa is SA Sign Language (SASL), which became the 12th official language on 19 July 2023.
Managing a Forced Gap Year
Advice to help matriculants who did not get admission to further their studies.
How academics can counter ‘AI thinks, therefore I am’
2023 will be remembered as the year that artificial intelligence (AI) – or, more specifically, large language models (LLMs), like ChatGPT – changed the world.
Professor Imraan Valodia appointed Chair of National Minimum Wage Commission
Professor Valodia's appointment stands as a testament to the University’s commitment to academic excellence and societal impact.
University rankings are unscientific and bad for education: experts point out the flaws
We all need to understand that ranking is not objective and true. University rankings are massively overvalued, and reinforce global and national inequalities.
Dass elected President of the SA University Law Clinics Association
Daven Dass, a key figure in clinical legal education, is dedicated to promoting excellence and access to justice.
A surprisingly regular academic achiever
A switch in 2nd-year from an LLB degree to Sociology paved the way to a rewarding career as Professor of Demography and now Senior Director: Academic Affairs.
Stressed out? Why mindfulness and meditation help
In a world fraught with anxiety, stress, and environmental and humanitarian disasters, people are looking for ways to cope.
Phishing scams: Don't drop your guard
Cybercriminals don’t take breaks. Even seasoned internet users fall prey to these scams. Here are seven safety tips from a cybersecurity expert.
Books for the festive season
Wits staff suggest local and international books covering a range of genres to explore these holidays.
Thrilling holiday reads for children
A reading list for children, tweens and teens from a Wits academic, writer and founder of Jozi’s Books and Blogs Festival.
Balancing Finances
December is a month of excesses and can burn a hole in the pocket. Avoid Janua-Worry through these tips.
'Wits remains a beacon of hope in society'
Professor Zeblon Vilakazi, Vice-Chancellor and Principal, extends thanks to Witsies for their service and sends wishes of goodwill for the holidays.
Thank you for your service
Wits bids farewell to 87 retirees who have served the University well for decades.
Safety and security tips from CPS
Wits' crime prevention expert wants Witsies to stay safe on and off campus, especially during the holidays. Read his advice to minimise incidents.
Harvard awards Wits professor for building advanced research capability in rural SA
Professor Stephen Tollman has received the 2023 Alumni Award of Merit from Harvard University.
Energy crisis takes toll on pandemic-weary mental health
Understanding the psychological impact of loadshedding is particularly critical because the country is only just emerging from the Covid-19 pandemic.
It’s about people…and excellence
Wits Advancement Division wins 11 awards at the Marketing, Advancement and Communication in Education Excellence Awards.
People Development and Culture: Q&A with Prof. Garth Stevens
Answers to six questions from staff about the portfolio.
Entomologist takes on mosquitoes, malaria, wins award
Professor Lizette Koekemoer has won the Women in Vector Control (WiVC) Excellence Award in the Senior Career category.
Medals and fellowships from Royal Society of South Africa
Medals for established and emerging researchers, eminent scholars inducted as Fellows.
One gold medal and Academy membership for 15
Academy of Science of South Africa (ASSAf) awards Gold Medal to world-renowned HIV expert and inaugurates 15 Wits scholars as new members.
Celebrating people and excellence
Duly deserved honours awarded to Wits staff at the annual Vice-Chancellor’s Awards.
A star performer that brings chemistry in Chemistry
Service Excellence Award winner has earned several prizes including the ‘coach Rassie Erasmus’ certificate.
World-renowned vaccinologist awarded CBE
Professor Shabir Madhi has been appointed as an honorary Commander of the Most Excellent Order of the British Empire (CBE) by King Charles III.
Jazz, musical bows and a baritone enthrall at music concert
A standing ovation for the Khaya Mahlangu Quintet at the inaugural Wits Vice-Chancellor’s Music Concert, which also featured Wits’ own Mombelli's Chamber.
Happy Birthday, Witsies!
Epic parade and student-inspired music festival painted Braamfontein blue and gold as Wits enters its second century.
British Academy awards Early-Career Scholar
Political theorist Dr Ayesha Omar has been awarded a three-year British Academy International Fellowship.
Science and climate advocacy - a much-needed balancing act
Ecologist Professor Sally Archibald makes a case for scientists 'stepping out of their labs' and engaging in activism and keeping an ethical balance.
A leap of faith and resilience
Agents at the heart of creating a better world for the Deaf community mark 25 years of impact and partnerships.
Building a diverse professoriate through strategic investment
Insights from the Carnegie Diversifying the Academy programme.
Award for Queer and Trans µÚÒ»³Ô¹ÏÍø Mobilities anthology
The book expands our understanding of the intersection between gender, sexuality and mobility in Africa.
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New trees for a sustainable and healthy campus
The addition of fruit trees promotes food security and reminds Witsies about the critical role that trees play in mitigating the effects of climate change.
Wits' Path to Gender Equity: Insights from Bath Spa University's Vice-Chancellor
Wits University's TEEO invited university transformation committees to discuss gender equity with Bath Spa University's Vice-Chancellor, Professor Sue Rigby.
Witsies rediscover campus during fun run
The Lenn Smith Fun Run/Walk cultivates camaraderie and reconnects scores of Witsies to the beautiful Wits landscape.
You carry the legacy forward: Honour Mandela!
Witsies double and triple commitment on Mandela Day with 670 and 6700 initiatives.
Professional and Administrative staff celebrate outstanding achievement
Wits staff achieve 90% success rate in Business Administration Learnership certification
Wits rolls out Save Our Resources campaign
Engagement with staff on climate change and its implications is crucial to creating a more sustainable campus collectively.
New Head for Campus Health and Wellness Centre
This nursing and health activist, and a community builder, looks forward to promoting student health and success on campus.
Wits’ transformation agenda places focus on female leaders
Wits University today launched a programme that seeks to change the gender and racial profile of leaders in academia.