University of Pretoria

The University of Pretoria (UP) was established in 1908 with just four professors and 32 students, in a little house called Kya Rosa. Today, it is one of the largest research universities in South Africa. UP has transformed into a dynamic university community of staff and students who come from a range of diverse backgrounds and cultures showcasing South African and global societies. The University was born from a vision to create a space for quality education and for new ideas to flourish. Over the course of its existence, and through different phases of political power and social change, UP has been resilient in its commitment to academic quality.

The university aims to be a leading research‐intensive university in Africa, recognised internationally for its quality, relevance and impact, as also for developing people, creating knowledge and making a difference locally and globally. Moreover, in pursuing recognition and excellence in its core functions of research, teaching and learning, and integrating engagement with society and communities into these, the University of Pretoria will use quality, relevance, diversity and sustainability as its navigational markers.

Sustainable Development

The university is environmentally conscious and committed to sustainable growth; greening and earth-friendly initiatives which give back positively to the planet rather than have a harmful impact and understand that the actions of today have a ripple effect and impacts on the future.

Initiatives of SD on the University of Pretoria include food gardens, Thrift Store Day and awareness days.

Read the University's latest Sustainability Report.

Find our more about the University Social Responsibility.