LeadUP: Online Alumni Events

Prominent UP alumni speak about different topics, ranging from politics, finance and health to agriculture and education. In doing so, they provide an opportunity for the University to showcase its talented alumni and academic experts.

LeadUP: In Conversation with the VC: In 2021, there were two LeadUP: In Conversation with the VC webinars.

International Relations: Strategies for strengthening SA’s reputation on the global stage featured the

Honourable Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Dr Naledi Pandor. Professor Tawana Kupe invited this alumna of UP (PhD in Education, 2019), and Dr Sithembile Mbete, Senior Lecturer in UP’s Political Sciences Department, to be his guests for the first 2021 instalment in this special series.

The role of leadership in the context of the 4IR in mining and related industries formed part of the 60th

anniversary of UP’s Department of Mining Engineering. Prof Kupe invited several experts to discuss the topic.

The Alumni Relations Office hosted several LeadUP: Alumni Thought Leadership virtual events, featuring diverse experts and alumni from across the globe. Discussions included:

• The Fourth Industrial Revolution (4IR) and disruptions in the engineering field. • Rethinking privatisation towards economic recovery.

• Youth employment: How young people, businesses, and government can help turn the tide.

• Celebrating women in sport – this online chat focused on the Tokyo Olympics, the role of sport during a time of crisis, and celebrating UP women athletes.