Top performing learners from Class of 2023 embrace their academic future at Wits
- Wits University
Wits hosted the Vice-Chancellor's Top Applicants Function in a bid to offer prospective students a taste of the academic journey that awaits them.
This annual event welcomed the brightest minds from the Class of 2023 to embark on a journey into their academic future at Wits. It is designed for matriculants who have applied to pursue their higher education and have demonstrated remarkable academic excellence. Aspiring Witsies had the unique opportunity to immerse themselves in the dynamic student life of the university and gain insights into the impactful and progressive courses offered across the institution's five Faculties.
Speaking at the event was Wits' Vice-Chancellor and Principal, Professor Zeblon Vilakazi, who notably mentioned that the university has consistently ranked among the top 100 institutions worldwide in terms of alumni who have ascended to become CEOs of Fortune 500 companies.
Vilakazi remarked, "We believe in academic excellence because we are an excellent university. We believe in respect for differences in our background because strength comes from that diversity."
"You are here because you've already demonstrated that, at a relatively young age, the power in your minds has the potential to change the world for the better. Wits University will refine that power, deepen your knowledge and expose you to a universe of intellect that you don't know about," said Vilakazi.
As the day unfolded, learners and their parents were privy to the ground-breaking research conducted at the university, from cutting-edge medical advancements to pioneering studies in science, commerce, engineering, and the arts.
The event offered learners the chance to interact with faculty staff and fellow students, offering them first-hand experiences with world-class resources. Guests explored the Actom Energy Laboratory and learnt about meteorites and earthquakes in Geosciences. They also explored the Adler Museum of Medicine on the Parktown campus, a unique space preserving the rich history of health sciences in Southern Africa.
Jeppe High School matriculant Zaeem Fakir hopes to be a student at the School of Computer Science and Applied Mathematics in 2024. The applicant praised Wits for its commitment to academic excellence.
"The calibre of education and staff at this institution will certainly provide me with the utmost skill to develop my professional career in the future," said Fakir.
Isabelle Johnson, a pupil from Northcliff High School, expressed her eagerness to pursue studies in the field of engineering as her primary choice. However, she also has a strong interest in the Humanities.
"I have a very creative side. The language, the arts and the cultural factor are all very special," said Johnson. The day concluded with a light lunch and networking session, allowing learners to connect and gain a deeper understanding of the pioneering paths they aspire to carve out as future Witsies.
The Top Applicants' event is organised by the Wits Schools Liaisons Office, responsible for recruiting student talent.