Lifelong learning access policy

The University of Johannesburg (UJ) is committed to promoting lifelong learning and ensuring equitable access to its educational programmes and resources. While there isn’t a single comprehensive policy explicitly titled “Lifelong Learning Access Policy,” UJ upholds inclusivity and equal opportunity through various policies and initiatives that collectively ensure access to education for all individuals, irrespective of ethnicity, religion, disability, immigration status, or gender.

Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) Policy

UJ’s Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) policy is designed to acknowledge and accredit learning acquired outside formal education systems. This policy facilitates access to university programmes for individuals who may not meet traditional admission criteria but possess relevant experience and knowledge. The RPL policy states:

“The University will award recognition and, where appropriate, credit that is aligned to UJ programmes in order to promote lifelong learning.” 

This approach underscores UJ’s dedication to valuing diverse learning experiences and promoting inclusivity in its educational offerings.

Online and Continuing Education Programmes

To further enhance accessibility, UJ offers a range of online programmes and short courses through its Continuing Education initiatives. These programmes are designed to accommodate individuals from various backgrounds, providing flexible learning opportunities that transcend geographical and socio-economic barriers. This commitment is evident in UJ’s promotion of lifelong learning through online platforms:

“Unlock your potential with online learning at the University of Johannesburg. Study programmes for career advancement and lifelong learning opportunities.” 

By providing these flexible learning options, UJ ensures that education is accessible to a broader audience, including those who may face constraints due to location, employment, or personal circumstances.

Community Engagement and Outreach

UJ actively engages in community outreach programmes aimed at extending educational resources to underserved populations. These initiatives often involve tailored lectures, workshops, and demonstrations conducted beyond the university campus, targeting local schools and communities. Such efforts exemplify UJ’s commitment to inclusivity and equal access to educational opportunities for all members of society.

Inclusive Policies and Practices

While specific policies addressing lifelong learning access for all demographics are not explicitly detailed in the provided sources, UJ’s overarching mission and values emphasize inclusivity, diversity, and equal opportunity. The university’s various initiatives and policies collectively reflect its dedication to creating an educational environment that is accessible and welcoming to individuals regardless of their background.

In summary, the University of Johannesburg fosters lifelong learning through inclusive policies and practices, ensuring that its educational programmes and resources are accessible to all individuals, irrespective of ethnicity, religion, disability, immigration status, or gender.

Refer to page 11 (point 5.4) of the UJ Admission and Selections Policy for the University’s statement on non-discrimination in the admission procedures and selection criteria:

“Within the confines of the specified admission procedures and selection criteria, the University is committed to ensuring that no potential student receives prejudicial treatment on the basis of race, gender, sex, pregnancy, marital status, ethnic or social origin, colour, sexual orientation, age, disability, religion, conscience, belief, culture, language or birth, or is disadvantaged by requirements, the attitudes of peers and employees or behaviour that cannot be seen as reasonable and justifiable in an open and democratic society based on human dignity, equality and freedom.”

Refer to pages 4 and 6 of the UJ Teaching and Learning Policy:

Page 4 (point 5.3):

“Diversity: defined for the institution as including inter alia race, age, gender, religion, sexual orientation, culture, ethnicity, socio-economic status, geographic location, and nationality.”

Page 6 (point 7.1.3):

“Teaching and learning should be “fit for purpose”, that is, its underlying premise is be informed by the University’s commitment to “teaching the students we have”. This requires developing curricula and pedagogy which take into account prior learning, accommodates the full diversity of students’ social, economic, educational and cultural backgrounds.”

Refer to pages 2 and 4 of the UJ People with Disabilities Policy:

Page 2 (point 1.4):

“Differences and diverse needs will be reasonably accommodated within the University’s physical environment, structure, available resources and institutional processes.”

Page 4 (point 5.4):

“The University strives, in a non-discriminatory manner, to entrench inclusivity, create equal opportunities for employees and students with disabilities, and create a culture of acceptance of disability as part of the broader diversity experience.“