Education outreach activities beyond campus

The University of Johannesburg (UJ) is deeply committed to educational outreach beyond its campuses, engaging with local schools and communities through a variety of programmes and initiatives. These efforts, often involving both staff and students, aim to address community needs, promote education, and foster a culture of learning.

Faculty of Science Initiatives

The Faculty of Science at UJ actively participates in community engagement through several outreach activities:

• Scientiae@UJ Programme: This initiative invites Grade 9 to 12 learners from various schools to the university, where they engage in scientific activities designed to ignite interest in science and technology. The programme includes hands-on experiments and interactive sessions, providing learners with practical exposure to scientific concepts. 
• Soweto Science Centre (SSC): Located in the heart of Soweto, the SSC offers tutoring and teaching services to school learners, aiming to enhance their understanding of science and mathematics. The centre conducts winter school programmes and other educational activities, contributing to improved academic performance in the region. 
• Grade 11 Physics Bootcamp: In June 2023, the Department of Physics hosted a three-day bootcamp for Grade 11 students. The programme focused on strengthening learners’ physics knowledge, introducing them to career opportunities in the field, and engaging them in practical activities. The event concluded with motivational talks from experts, inspiring students to pursue scientific careers. 

Community Engagement by the Department of Physics

The Department of Physics is involved in various community service initiatives:

• School Visits and Demonstrations: Staff and students from the department visit local schools to conduct physics experiments and demonstrations, aiming to make science accessible and exciting. These visits provide learners with a tangible understanding of scientific principles and encourage them to consider careers in science. 
• Hosting Learners for Experiments: The department regularly invites high school learners to its laboratories, offering them the opportunity to perform physical science experiments. This hands-on experience enhances their practical skills and deepens their understanding of theoretical concepts. 

Faculty of Education’s Community Engagement

The Faculty of Education contributes to community development through various outreach programmes:

• Botanical Society Projects: In collaboration with the Botanical Society of South Africa, faculty members have participated in projects such as creating children’s gardens and water-wise gardens at the Walter Sisulu National Botanical Garden. These projects aim to educate the community about biodiversity and environmental conservation. 
• Science and Technology Awareness: The faculty promotes science and technology awareness through educational activities and events, aligning with national efforts to increase interest in scientific fields. These initiatives are designed to inspire learners to pursue studies and careers in science and technology. 

Community Engagement Unit Initiatives

UJ’s Community Engagement Unit implements organised outreach projects in partnership with internal and external stakeholders:

• Financial Literacy Workshops: In May 2023, the unit, in collaboration with the Department of Finance and Investment Management, launched a project to empower community members involved in savings schemes, such as ‘Stokvels’ and burial societies. The workshops cover topics like budgeting, debt management, and financial planning, aiming to enhance participants’ financial decision-making skills.
• #UJDOnation Campaign: The Department of Accountancy initiated the #UJDOnation campaign to foster authentic connections and impactful involvement among students and staff. The campaign includes various projects, such as mental health awareness, youth empowerment events, and literacy programmes, all designed to address specific community needs. 

Through these diverse outreach activities, the University of Johannesburg demonstrates its dedication to extending educational opportunities beyond its campuses, actively engaging with local communities, and fostering a culture of lifelong learning.