Professor Songca outlined a forward-looking strategy to elevate the University’s national and international standing. Central to this plan is participation in global ranking systems within the next three years, an ambition that will require a substantial increase in both the quality and quantity of research output.
To drive this, a new promotion policy is set to be introduced to reward impactful and socially relevant research. Academics have also been challenged to align their work with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), ensuring that research contributes to addressing pressing global challenges.
Professor Songca underscored that achieving these goals will require collective accountability and proactive leadership. Deans have been tasked with closely monitoring faculty performance, while individual academics are encouraged to take initiative.
“The deans must monitor progress… I want people to raise their hands,” she said, reaffirming the University’s commitment to providing the necessary support for its academics to “walk tall” on the global stage.
Professor Songca also outlined a grand plan for Women-in-Research. Needless to say, Dr Anette Mienie is already running with the grand plan, following the meeting this morning with Women in Research.
With its dual focus on academic excellence and commercial viability, the University is positioning itself as a leader in research-driven innovation that delivers tangible societal and economic impact.