IMPACT by Joni Brenner

IMPACT presents an in-depth artistic response to a scientific subject—the 2.5-2.8-million-year-old Taung skull.

IMPACT presents an in-depth artistic response to a scientific subject—the 2.5-2.8-million-year-old Taung skull. This exhibition encapsulates Brenner’s long-term creative engagement with the skull, broadly exploring themes of fragility and survival, destruction and creation, uncertainty, loss, pressure, and chance. Her work draws from the fragmentary nature of archaeological evidence; strikingly combining different mediums and surfaces – from paper, canvas and stone veneer to clay, plaster of paris, bronze and film. Click here more info here

R30/R60 entry, tickets available on webtickets. Extended to 31 July 2025.

For walkabouts and exhibition events, please check our social media. 

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Hold Me Said the Earth by Ann Gollifer

‘Hold me said the Earth’ invites us to consider the ways in which our identities are shaped by history, geography, and personal experience.

What ways are our identities shaped by history, geography, and personal experience? A key element in Ann’s work is her use of pigments derived from earth colours found in Botswana, which she transforms into something more than just colour – but vessels of history, culture, and identity.
“Her art is a call to reflection, urging us to consider our own personal mythologies and how they intersect with the larger narratives of race, gender, and nationality” - Khumo Sebambo. Exhibition curated by Kim Karabo Makin.
All works on sale through Guns&Rain Gallery. See the catalogue here. R30/R60 entry, tickets on webtickets or at the door. Extended until 31 March 2025

For walkabouts and exhibition events, please check our social media.

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Welcome Day 2025

Calling all First Years!!

WITS WELCOME DAY 2025

When: Sunday, 26 January 2025

Where: Braamfontein Campus West, Dig Fields

Start time: Gates Open at 08H30 for 10H00

Enquiries: events@wits.ac.za 

FIRST YEARS ONLY!

Congratulations! You are now a Witsie and part of the Wits family.

Wits University cordially invites you to attend Welcome Day, at which first-year students will be addressed by the Vice-Chancellor and Principal, Professor Zeblon Vilakazi FRS, and others.

All first-year students are invited to attend the Welcome Day, along with their parents/guardians.

Limited seating is available (max. 2 guests per student).

Faculties will be available to answer any questions you may have.

There will be food stalls where refreshments can be purchased.

Please arrive early to avoid traffic congestion at the gates and secure parking.

You are welcome to use e-hailing services to be dropped off.

The event will be streamed live on the Wits University Streaming YouTube channel

We look forward to welcoming you to your campus.

Witsie. For Good

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Artist walkabout with Ann Gollifer – Hold me said the Earth

Exhibition catalogue available online and beautiful printed copies will be on sale at the exhibition.

Ann Gollifer is travelling from Gaborone Botswana to take us on a tour of her extraordinary exhibition "Hold Me Said The Earth".

The exhibition is the culmination of years of the artist's work with the natural ochres of Botswana, found in soils and stones, as a water-based painting medium.

Free entrance. In collaboration with Guns and Rain Gallery. Exhibition catalogue available online and beautiful printed copies will be on sale at the exhibition.

Enquiries: tammy.hodgskiss@wits.ac.za

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Artist walkabout with Joni Brenner – IMPACT

This exhibition encapsulates Brenner’s long-term creative engagement with the Taung skull.

Join artist Joni Brenner for a walkabout of her exhibition. IMPACT presents an in-depth artistic response to a scientific subject—the 2.5-2.8-million-year-old Taung skull. This exhibition encapsulates Brenner’s long-term creative engagement with the skull, broadly exploring themes of fragility and survival, destruction and creation, uncertainty, loss, pressure, and chance.
Tickets at the door or on webtickets (Students R10, Wits staff R30, general R60; tickets allow full access to the museum)
Enquiries: tammy.hodgskiss@wits.ac.za

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ECAD Buddy Chatbot launch

Empowering Early Career Academics Through Digital Companionship

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Exhibition Opening: Mooi Nooi

Join us for the exhibition opening for Mooi Nooi Mooi by Karolien van Zyl.

Mooi Nooi. Sculpting Identities: Art, Nationalism & Womanhood. The exhibition is a partial fulfilment for Master of Arts in Contemporary Curatorial Practice, Wits School of Arts.
Free entry for the opening. RSVP: tammy.hodgskiss@wits.ac.za.

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Exhibition: Mooi Nooi by Karolien van Zyl

Join us for the exhibition for Mooi Nooi from 8-22 February.

The exhibition is a partial fulfilment for Master of Arts in Contemporary Curatorial Practice, Wits School of Arts. Opening event on Saturday 8 February from 12:00-14:00 (opening event is free, please RSVP to tammy.hodgskiss@wits.ac.za). Exhibition on until 22 February. Tickets for duration of exhibition: R10 students, R30 kids and Wits staff, R60 adults.

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Museum Mental Health Walkabout with Dr Kirti Ranchod

Join us for a Museum Mental Health Walkabout with Dr Kirti Ranchod titled Love in Art and Science.

Memorability's 2025 Series: The Neural Blueprint for Excellence . We look forward to welcoming you to Kirti Ranchod’s 2025 brain health and mental wellness series designed to support your success in art, science, and life. Join neurologist, Dr Kirti Ranchod and learn about the impact on love on the brain, and on health.

Tickets on Webtickets or at the door.R10 students, R30 kids/Wits staff, R60 general. Enquiries: tammy.hodgskiss@wits.ac.za

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Afro-ADVAC 2025

The Wits African Leadership in Vaccinology Expertise (Wits-Alive) invites qualified professionals to apply to attend the African Advanced Vaccinology Course.

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Science Lunchtime Lecture

Please join the Faculty of Science’s Friday Lunchtime Lectures that will showcase the faculty's cutting-edge and diverse research and teaching innovations.

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Pitso ya Kalaneng 2025 festival

Wits Theatre presents Wits University’s annual festival Pitso Ya Kalaneng: A Call to Theatre.

This year’s pickings have the energy and vibrancy of a long-standing arts festival that will set the tone for your year – whether you are a student (at Wits or anywhere else), an academic or a member of the public. View the daily schedule or visit the Wits Theatre for more details on each of the performances. Tickets at Webtickets for only R50 students, R100 for staff and the public.

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NDANGE

A production of the Pitso ya Kalaneng - A Call to the Theatre programme.

NDANGE is an epic drama that unravels the haunting tale of Solomzi and his family, set in the secluded rural enclave of Ndokonya, in the Eastern Cape. In this cursed land, the people are slowly unravelling, their identity and traditions eroded by the encroachment of foreign customs. Amidst this turmoil, Solomzi emerges as a tragic figure, his choices casting long shadows over his fate, as judgment and sentence seal his place.

Writer: Mandipumle Nokonya   

Devised by & Cast: Philip Shelembe/Bandile Sika V Moloi/Aphelele Sidelo/Mandipumle Nokonya                     

Genre: Epic Drama

Stage Manager: Zukhanye Bulali Mgobo

Duration: 40mins

Age Restriction: 13  

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Flesh In the Garden

A production of the Pitso Ya Kalaneng - A Call to Theatre programme

Flesh In the Garden is an African inspired Musical. A Tale of the old Gods – The African Gods. The musical reimagines the Orisha (divine spirits worshipped by the Yoruba people, a tribe in Nigeria) in the spirit world. These spirits reside and inspire the mortal realm. Gods and Goddesses, they may be, are divine children of the Tree of Life. The mother tree, Ase’, withers and burns, while the Second being, Oludomare, the Father of the Universe who is omnipotent. The children embark on a mission to save their mother and the Universe from calamity and darkness. In their plight, the Orisha must confront the impending doom lurking in the midst, while unearthing their past traumas, to see clearly the path towards saving ‘Ase’. Get enchanted in the magic of African spirituality and beauty, beautifully woven through bold music, vibrant characters and the extraordinarily mysterious world, created through mesmerising visuals and sensory storytelling.                                

Writer/Director: Lwazi Pinyana

Cast: Asakhe Ngxonono/Masungulo Khosa/Kereabetswe Koloko/

Jamie Mirembe/Catalina Namayanja/Sive Camagu Khamanga/Lungelo Dlangamandla/ Ntando Qangule/ Regopostwe Modisane/ Azile Mningizane/Luvuyo Zulwayo/ Kamogelo Sigauke

Stage Manager:  Iviwe Tom

Genre: Musical Theatre                                

Date & Times: 11 February @ 18h00 & 12 February @ 18h00 & 13 February @ 15h00 &

14 February @ 16h00. Venue: Nunnery. Duration: 45mins – 13+               

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The After effect _ Soweto 1995

A production of the Pitso Ya Kalaneng - A Call to Theatre programme

THE AFTER EFFECT _ SOWETO 1995 a play that revolves around the life of Joe Makinta, a 49-year-old activist and revolutionary, released from prison after serving 18 years for anti-apartheid activism. Joe returns to his community, only to find that his wife, Thandi, has married his former comrade and friend, Moses, "Ta'Moss" Qoka, who is now the Minister of Safety and Security. Joe struggles to come to terms with the betrayal and the fact that his community seems to have forgotten his sacrifices. He also discovers that, Ta'Moss sealed a deal with the apartheid regime, which led to Joe's imprisonment. The community is revealed to be under some sort of mind control, triggered by a robotic system program instilled in their ears, which prevents them from discussing apartheid.

Writer/Director: Tebogo Queen Kobo

Cast: Mathapelo Badye/Matlhatsi Ntuli/Matimu Manganyi/Tanique Grootboom/Lethabo Ngcobo

Thapelo Kobo

Genre: Drama

Date & Times: 12 February @ 12h30 & 13 February @ 12h30

Stage Manager: Atalia Ntimbane

Technical Crew: Themba Nkabinde/Xaba Ntjana/Anele Ngema

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MOROLA

A Production of the Pitso Ya Kalaneng - A Call to Theatre programme

MOROLA is a testimonial physical theatre piece that tells the story of a mother and daughter—one a perpetrator and the other a survivor—who face each other across wooden tables. The narrative unfolds between these two tables of testimony, bringing the past to light in all its raw brutality and fragility. The piece explores the liberating power of speaking while also emphasizing the importance of listening. It acknowledges that simply speaking will not heal all wounds. The Chorus introduces a method to help bridge the gap between them: PRAYER. This serves as an offering of prayer—a request to heal our land.

Writer: Yael Farber

Director: Tshepang Sehole

Cast: Beata-Bellé Wessie/Keratilwe Bikitsha/Vuyo Zulwayo/Ongeziwe Mpongo/Asibonge Ntuli/

Nqobile Xulu/Phoebe Mgxaji/Itebogeng Machobane/Thabiso Motaung/Juliette Love/ Kwandokuhle Goba/

Genre: Drama

Stage Manager: Mosima Mokgahlane

Date & Times: 11 February at 14:30 and 13 February at 12:00                         

Duration: 40mins

Age Restrictions: 13

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Mad Man Tales – Delusions

A production of the Pitso Ya Kalaneng - A Call to Theatre programme.

When Mkhululi is found guilty of Killing over 895 people he is sent to a prison psychiatric hospital. Where he Meets doctor Vutali his psychiatrist who is sent to help him with his psychological problems. In their session Mkhululi then reveals that he suffered from child abuse by his father which later made him have a counter part that served as his protector. He also doesn’t recall killing any of the people whom he’s being accused of, but he believes that he was put in jail by very powerful politically affiliated people who believe he has found secrets that may discredit some political parties.

Writer/Director: Sanele Radebe

Cast: Bongane Maqhawe Manyoni

Genre: Physical Theatre  

Date & Times: 12 February at 17:30 and 13 February at 15:30                    

Duration: 40mins

Age Restrictions: 13

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LETTER 7 TO MOÛSAI - “I am terrified by the sheer power of the words I have written.” – Franz Kafka

A production of the Pitso Ya Kalaneng - A Call to Theatre programme.

Letter 7 to Moûsai is a visceral, physical theatre piece inspired by Kafka’s powerful 47-page letter to his father. Through compelling movement composition and physicalised storytelling, it brings to life Kafka’s emotional tapestry and the complex dynamics of his childhood and manhood. This striking adaptation transforms Kafka’s deeply personal words into a raw, visual journey, immersing the audience in his inner world and unravelling the tensions that shaped his life and work.

Writer: Franz Kafka

Director: Joziah S. Wheeler    

Cast: Lindumkhosi Ndlovu/Zoe Smyrnios/Beata-Bellé Wessie/Keratilwe Bikitsha

Genre: Physical Theatre

Date & Times: 14 February @ 18h00 & 28 February @ 14h00 & 01 March @ 14h00

Stage Manager: Masungulo Khosa 

Duration: 30mins

Age Restrictions: 13

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Liewe Pa

A production of the Pitso Ya Kalaneng - A Call to Theatre programme.

Liewe Pa is a physical theatre piece, that follows a man’s journey as he confronts his past, as years of neglect weigh heavily on him. In confronting his father, he explores the complex dynamics of the

father-son relationship, touching on broader themes of personal growth, reconciliation, and the search for emotional wholeness.

Choreographer: Lechè Tangee

Writer: Liam Kelly

Cast: Thabani Mdlalose/Tshegofatso Kgage/Vuyo Mthembu/Inganathi Mgeni/Liam Kelly

Genre: Physical Theatre 

Date & Times: 12 February at 14:00 and 13 February at 14:30

Duration: 30mins

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From 94-24

A production of the Pitso Ya Kalaneng - A Call to Theatre programme.

From 94-24 is a bold and satirical play that reflects South Africa's transformation from 1994 to 2024. Through humour and sharp wit, it tackles issues like political corruption, exploitation in modern churches, poverty, and the role of artificial intelligence in shaping the future.

Writer: Ngcebo Mtshali

Devised by: Cast  

Cast: Ngcebo Mtshali/Sabelo Thusi/Aphelele Sidelo  

Genre: Satire

Date & Times: 22 February at 16:30 and 01 March at 18:00

Stage Manager: Kamogelo Rorisang  

Duration: 20mins

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WitsQ Connect

WitsQ is a strategic initiative of the University to be a driver of quantum technologies, making Wits the leading quantum institute on the continent.

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50th Conference and Annual General Meeting of the Anatomical Society of Southern Africa

50th Annual Conference of Anatomical Society of Southern Africa. Theme: "Anatomy Intelligence: Using Artificial Intelligence (AI) in Anatomical Sciences".

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Walkabout of ‘Paper’ Exhibition

Join on Saturday 8 February 2025 at 11:30 for the first walkabout of ‘Paper’ with curator David Paton.

The exhibition features books in which paper plays the starring role, such as books about the craft of papermaking, techniques such as paper cutting, folding, marbling, pulp-painting and watermarking, and books with extraordinary and unusual papers as part of their content. Of particular interest are the recent hand-paper portfolio on the theme of 30 Years of Democracy and the 8.5m-long scroll Three Gorges Dam Migration by contemporary Chinese artist Ji Yun-Fei.

Limited on-street parking is available, but we encourage using ride-hailing systems for convenience.

Entrance is free. 

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Seven Colours, Letsema

A production of the Pitso Ya Kalaneng - A Call to Theatre programme.

Seven Colours, Letsema – In this unforgettable dance theatre performance, you will experience the joy, love, and warmth of community!

Seven Colours is a dance theatre production that celebrates the spirit of togetherness and its nuanced complexities and challenges. Inspired by the Setswana concept of Letsema, this performance explores the collaboration of a diverse ensemble of performers to create a rich, textured, vibrant form of embodied storytelling. Set against the backdrop of the iconic "seven colours" tradition, where an assortment of colourful dishes marks Sunday gatherings, this production explores the intersections of sharing, family, and community. "Seven Colours" embodies the values of wholesomeness, home, and togetherness through dynamic choreography, music, and personal narratives.

Choreographer: Kamogelo Molobye, in collaboration with the cast

Cast: Kamogelo Molobye/Smangaliso Ngwenya/Musa Mpongo/Kungawo Gwayi/Tshepang Sehole/ Keratilwe Bikitsha/Beata Wessie/Azile Mningizane/Mairi Cruickshank/Kwandokuhle Goba/Likhanye Tube/Luvuyo Zulwayo/Mirembe Namayanja/Inganathi Mqeni/Masungulo Khosa/Thabani Mdlalose/

Bayanda Mzulwini/Thandiwe Witley/Ntando Qangule/Keamogetswe Lehodi/Kgabo Tauatsoala

Poster Illustrator: Tlhalefo “Evo” Boshielo

Stage Manager: Nokwanda Mjiyako

Genre: Dance Theatre  

Date & Times:  19 - 22 February at 20h00 (for all performances)

Duration: 30mins

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iNgoma

A production of the Pitso Ya Kalaneng - A Call to Theatre programme.

iNgoma, meaning song and dance in isiZulu, is a jubilant celebration and showcase of the music from three musical productions namely: Lerumo Badimong (2023), Muntu (2023) and Kama (2024). iNgoma celebrates this notion and equally highlights the sacred multi- marriage between African traditional rhythms, soul stirring harmonies and movement. As the saying ‘Sigiya Ngengoma’ goes, join us as our talented musicians take us through this sonic vivid picture of African storytelling.

Muscial Director: Sibusiso Ntonfontofo Mkhize.

Performers: Sade Sepeng/ Kwandokuhle Goba/Kgotatso Semone/Buhle-Bontle Satsha/Bellz Ntuli/Sazikazi Bula/Olwethu Mthombeni/Mandisa Yende/Aphelele Sidelo/Akhona Mthiyane/Nolubabalo Bawuti/Bhambatha Ndaba/Resego Matshediso/Lebogang Moleleki/Keabetswe Motsoagae/Khanyisile Masondo/Rebaone Molatlhegi/Luyolo Poni/Oratile Pega/Awethu Mtolo/Mpumie Khuzwayo/Nandi Zulu/Itebogeng Machobane/Sfiso Maseko/Rorisang Makena/

Stage Manager: Thando Masilela

Genre: Music  

Date & Times:  10 February at 17:30

Duration: 75mins

Age Restrictions: 13

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Public Discussion on Deciphering the Present

WiSER and The Innovation Foundation for Democracy invite you to a public discussion on 'Deciphering the Present'.

Chaired by Professor Lynn Morris, Deputy Vice-Chancellor of Research and Innovation at Wits, this event will consist of a three-way conversation between political historian and public intellectual Achille Mbembe, critical theorist Jacqueline Rose, cultural critic Sarah Nuttall, and moderated by feminist and sociologist Srila Roy.

At stake will be an attempt to decipher the current global moment and some of the key challenges of our times such as war and militarism, impending ecological breakdown, conflicts over gender and sexuality, the hollowing out of liberal democracy and the rise of reactionary authoritarianism and its alliance with the highest forms of techno-capitalism. Particular attention will be given to the conditions of possibility for new orders of democratic practice and the deepening of international justice.

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V.V.V Security

A production of the Pitso Ya Kalaneng - A Call to Theatre programme

V.V.V Security - An action-packed satire set in the vibrant and evocative world of an art gallery. This production delves into the profound ramifications of colonialism and its enduring impact on Africa, examining themes of history, language, and culture. The story unfolds from the unique perspective of three security guards entrusted with protecting the art they also question. It grapples with how colonial legacies shape our modern-day psychology, influencing our connection to heritage, lineage, and a sense of belonging. The narrative is brought to life through the dynamic mediums of physical theatre and verbatim theatre, blending sharp commentary with visceral storytelling.

Director: Kgothatso Kenzo Selepe

Mentor: Sinehlanhla Prince Mgeyi

Cast: Gofaone Bodigelo/ Langalibalele Mathuthu/ Kgothatso Kenzo Selepe

Genre: Satire  

Date & Times:  11 February at 12:30 and 12 February at 11:00 

Duration: 40mins 

Age Restrictions: 13

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BONDAGE EN-SUIT (E)

A production of the Pitso Ya Kalaneng - A Call to Theatre programme

BONDAGE EN-SUIT (E) is a fast paced, supercharged physical theatre piece that is set in 1663, deep within the Karoo desert of South Africa, where the Kabilawatu-ukoo's toiled under the unforgiving sun to build a time travel machine-a device that would reshape history forever.

Devised by: Cast

Director: Yangintsikelelo Klaas

Mentor:  Jacques de Silva 

Cast: Andile Mgeyi/Brooklyn Lottering/Sonia Mayor/Yangintsikelelo Klaas

Stage Manager: Brooklyn Lottering  

Genre: Satire, comedy and physical theatre   

Date & Times:  11 February at 11:00 and 12 February at 12:30 

Duration: 40mins 

Age Restrictions: 13

Tickets are available on www.webtickets.co.za/witstheatre (click for ticket information).

Students: R 50.00

Wits Staff and public: R 100.00

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M E M E [TICS]

A production of the Pitso Ya Kalaneng - A Call to Theatre programme

M E M E [TICS] engages cultural [re]evolution and how we experience ourselves in the world. Through moments of flashbacks the show uses dance and physical storytelling to peak into the past of South Africa and find links between what once was, what today is and considers what tomorrow could be. The play seeks to find parallels between inherited or generational experiences and modern ways of experiencing the world. With a MEME as a unit in which culture can be measured, MEME [tics] presents several moments of cultural evolution and duplication. Continuously reaching back in time as we make sense of the present. Grounding the world, we live in now by referencing the past, indicating how we are not only shaped by our past but that we actively shape ourselves. The show leaves the GenZ with a [re]presentation of culture and ask what MEME’s they will be passing on as digital natives and the lasting effects it could have on generations to come.

 Director: Gavin Matthys

Music Composition and Choreography by: Ensemble Cast

Cast: Beata B. Wessie/Luvuyo Zulwayo/Keratilwe Bikitsha/Mairi Cruickshank/

Sanele B. Dlamini/Kwandokuhle Goba/Tshegofatso N. Kgage/Masungulo Khosa/

Hendrick M. Lesabane/Keith Mahlangu/Kwanele Maphumulo/Mosima Mokgahlane/

Zukhanye BSZ. Mgobo/Azile A. Mningizane/Bonolo Mofokeng/Awethu Mtolo/Ngcebo SG. Mtshali/

Bayanda Mzulwini/Mirembe JC. Namayanja/Yolanda Ndlovu/Asibonge OAM. Ntuli/Oratile Pega/

Lwazi Pinyana/Rohan Roussow/Philip S. Shelembe/Sandile Sibanda/Aphelele Sidelo/Zoe Smyrnios/

Likhanye Tube/Thandiwe M. Witley/Joziah S. Wheeler/Nqobile Z. Xulu/Thabiso Motaung/Itebogeng Machobane/Tshepang Sehole/Keamogetswe Lehodi

Stage Manager: Khanyisile Masondo

Genre: Physical Theatre 

Dates & Times: 27 February at 20:00

                            28 February at 20:00

                            01 March at 20:00

Duration: 50mins 

Age Restrictions: PG

Tickets are available on www.webtickets.co.za/witstheatre (click for ticket information).

Students: R 50.00

Wits Staff and public: R 100.00

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F-R-A-G-M-E-N-T-E-D

A production of the Pitso Ya Kalaneng - A Call to Theatre programme

F-R-A-G-M-E-N-T-E-D is an embodied language that cannot be articulated in words nor whispered in the deepest, wildest thoughts. It exists in parallel, disjointed and lived timeline that warps and culminates in the body. These are, but a few moments of endless embodied conversations in one’s body, mind, and spirit.

Choreographer: Smangaliso Ngwenya in collaboration with the cast  

Performers: Musa Mpongo/Smangaliso Ngwenya/Owethu Mbongwa/Rebaone Molatlhegi/ Tshepang Sehole/Likhanye Tube/Kungawo Amandla KaThixo Gwayi/Zukhanye Mgobo/

Sika Bandile Moloi/Naledi Mosiane/Philip Shelembe/ Khanyisile Masondo/ Mandipumle Nokonya

Genre: Dance and Physical Theatre

Date & Times: 19 - 22 February at 18:00 (for all performances)

Duration: 30mins. 

Tickets are available on www.webtickets.co.za/witstheatre (click for ticket information).

Students: R 50.00

Wits Staff and public: R 100.00

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Lab of Learning Jazz Session

A production of the Pitso Ya Kalaneng - A Call to Theatre programme

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Book Launch: Decolonising African Theatre by Dr. Samuel Ravengai

A production of the Pitso Ya Kalaneng - A Call to Theatre programme

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Notanotherpodcast

A production of the Pitso Ya Kalaneng - A Call to Theatre programme

Picture this: a cozy gathering in the outdoors. A pop-up podcast. With the aims to spark discussions among the theatre community about festival highlights while fostering interaction between performers and audiences. An immersive audiovisual installation will enhance the experience and encourage social media engagement, inviting attendees to share their memorable moments. Celebrating the South Africa Theatre landscape. Let the reflecting begin theatre lovers!

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The National Youth Afrocentric Alliance (NYA)

A production of the Pitso Ya Kalaneng - A Call to Theatre programme

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Reversing the Vicious Circle of Debt, underdevelopment and environmental change

This lecture discusses ways of enhancing investment in resilience and sustainable development to reverse this process and create a virtuous circle.

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Breaking Barriers Through Technology Webinar Series

Webinar Title: An African Perspective on Culturally Competent Social Robotics-Why DEI Matters in Human-Robot Interaction.

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GCI Seminar: Water security and climate change in Africa-past, future and present

This GCI seminar will be presented by Prof. Declan Conway, London School of Economics.

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Jazz, Vice, and Revolution: Harlem, Sophiatown, and Elijah Muhammad

Join us for a Black History Month event exploring jazz, vice, geography, and revolution in Harlem, Sophiatown, and Elijah Muhammad’s legacy.

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Experience the inaugural Wits Standard Bank Piano Festival!

Join us for a world-class piano music celebration featuring acclaimed South African and international artists.

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Faces of the City - Tuesday Online Seminar Series

The Faces of the City is a weekly online seminar series hosted at WITS by CUBES, the SA&CP, both in the School of Architecture and Planning, and the GCRO.

This quarter, the series is being run by CUBES from 11 February - 25 March 2025 and aims to connect urban scholars and practitioners across geographies and disciplines to promote transnational dialogues, debates and collaborations. A provocation is posed to presenters to engage in some way with ‘Faces of the State in the City’, including but not limited to questions of state spaces, statecraft, bureaucracies and governance.

The presenters and discussants include Professor Solomon Benjamin (Indian Institute of Technology Madras), Professor Mfaniseni Sihlongonyane (WITS University), Dr Katie Wells (Groundwork Collaborative) and Professor Nthabiseng Motsemme (Centre for Sociological Research and Practice University of Johannesburg).

Join us online on Tuesdays at 16:00 on Zoom (link below) and join the mailing list here: https://shorturl.at/EfUfq Join Zoom Meeting https://wits-za.zoom.us/j/97213045421?pwd=bTZvNkch7le3EXs4YhwbtlOKgO2a25.1 Meeting ID: 972 1304 5421 Passcode: 559109

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50th annual conference of the South African Association of Botanists

The 50th annual conference of the South African Association of Botanists (SAAB) at the Wits Rural Facility, c. 30 km from Orpen Gate, Kruger National Park.

A special Pollination Symposium will be held on Monday 30 June, and the 3-day General Conference from 1 - 3 July. Oral and poster presentations may be submitted via the conference website: https://www.wits.ac.za/saab-conference/.

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Afro-Indigeneity: Coloured South African Consciousness and Black American Identity Formation

Join the WICDS Wednesday session for an essential discussion on Afro-indigeneity.

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Apartheid after South Africa

The Innovation Foundation for Democracy and WiSER invite you to a conversation between Professor Achille Mbembe and Dr Mbuyiseni Ndlozi.

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Adenauer media lecture

The role of public service broadcasting in a democracy, lessons from Germany

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Science Lunchtime Lecture

Novel dark matter searches at the large hadron collider.

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MITP and NITheCS Seminar

‘What we can learn from a growing sample of Fast Radio Bursts: A Cosmology Wishlist’ - Professor Amanda Weltman (University of Cape Town)

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Research Seminar : Aspentech Tools Session One

The School of Chemical and Metallurgical Engineering invites you to the research seminar: Aspentech Tools Session.

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Billionaires, Fascists & Apartheid in the USA

Dr Lisa Brocks will deliver a series of lectures at Wits including the below public lecture.

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Celebrating Multilingualism for Inclusive and Quality Education

Celebrating Multilingualism for Inclusive and Quality Education

Wits University will commemorate International Mother Language Day (IMLD) with a special event aimed at celebrating linguistic diversity, fostering multilingual pedagogies, and promoting inclusive education. This year’s theme, Celebrating Multilingualism for Inclusive and Quality Education, aligns with Wits’ commitment to language inclusivity and epistemic access.

The event will bring together leading academics, language experts, staff, and students to engage in discussions, cultural showcases, and policy reflections on the role of mother tongue education in South Africa and beyond.

Programme Highlights

 ✅ Opening Address: The significance of International Mother Language Day and Wits’ language policy vision
✅ Keynote Address: Wits Giving the Edge – Translanguaging Practices in Higher Education & MTbBE in Basic Education
✅ Interactive Language Showcase: Students and staff share proverbs, poetry, and phrases in various languages
✅ Panel Discussion: The Next Decade for Mother Tongue-Based Education – Experts from HuMEL, English, isiZulu, Sesotho, and SASL
✅ Closing Commitments: Wits’ roadmap for multilingual pedagogies and future research initiatives

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Public Lecture: Binaifer Nowrojee: President of the Open Society Foundations

The role of Philanthropy in achieving agreed global compacts transformative national development and sustainable social justice in the global south.

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The Paris agreement at a crossroads: Pathways to a sustainable future

Professor David King will discuss the state of the Paris Agreement from his insider experience of international climate negotiations.

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Frantz Fanon: Combat Breathing

2025 Lunchtime public seminar series.

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International Day of Mathematics

The programme is open to all high school learners, undergraduate students and anyone keen to explore the world of mathematics.

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A Journey in Time: Archaeology Activity Day at Origins Centre

Join us for a fun day of archaeology-inspired activities. All Ages Welcome.

Fun activities in and around the museum. Go on a museum scavenger hunt, explore an archaeological dig sandpit, shoot a bow and arrow, make paint from stone, learn how to identify animal bones, explore South Africa's rich archaeological record, and touch real artefacts, and a special visit by a Palaeolithic early modern human! 

Most activities will be running through the day, but make sure not to miss these two workshops: 

10:00 – 11:00 Ochre painting workshop. Make colourful powder from special pigment-rich rocks and then create your own paint and make rock art. 

11:00 Bullroarer demo with The Historian, Gareth 

11:30 – 12:30 ‘What bone is this?’ with archaeozoologist Dr Jerome Reynard. Learn how to identify animal bones, the markings that form on them, and how archaeologists can tell past environments from bones. 

R100 per person. Family ticket: Buy 3 get 1 free (R300 for 4 people). Tickets are available at the door or on webtickets: https://www.webtickets.co.za/performance.aspx?itemid=1564244200  

Please bring ID to get onto Wits campus. Safe parking in front of the Origins building. Refreshments will be on sale

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A journey in time

Origins centre activity day

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Places in me

The voices of Platfontein's youth

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In search of Homo sapiens' elusive origins

Discover how life's anomalies, DNA errors and asymmetries have not only shaped our existence but have been pivotal to the success and diversity of species.

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Mental Wellness Museum Walkabout at Origins Centre

Rhythm: The Neuroscience of Music and Mental Mastery

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From Deprivation to Mobilisation: Towards a Multideterminant Model of Xenophobic Violence

An ACMS Seminar by Dr Jean Pierre Misago

ACMS Seminar: ‘From Deprivation to Mobilisation: Towards a Multideterminant Model of Xenophobic Violence in South Africa’ by Jean Pierre Misago. Drawing on extensive and comparative qualitative data from a nearly two-decade long and ongoing research, this paper responds to inadequacies and limitations of current causal explanations for xenophobic violence in South Africa. It argues that existing explanations are inadequate as many lack empirical backing and others are incomplete due to their reductionist approach. To address these shortcomings, this paper proposes an empirically based and theoretically informed multideterminant (explanatory) model, which identifies and analyses the roles of – and interconnections between – six key determinants namely: i) socio-economic and political deprivation, ii) xenophobic beliefs, iii) collective discontent, iv) political economy, v) mobilization, and vi) governance. The paper argues that i) these determinants and their interconnections in a value-added process constitute the necessary and sufficient conditions for the occurrence of xenophobic violence, and ii) this multideterminant model consequently provides an adequate and comprehensive explanation of the xenophobic violence in South Africa.

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Book Talk- Frantz Fanon: Combat Breathing

The South Africa United Kingdom Chair in Political Theory at the Wits University invites you to a Book Talk, Frantz Fanon: Combat Breathing

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Masterclass - Navigating Medical Schemes

Join us for an insightful and in-depth discussion on the complexities of medical schemes in South Africa.

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Essays on the South African Cement Cartel

Wits SEF invites you to our next Brown Bag Lunch (BBL) Seminar Series of 2025, presented by Khalirendwe Ranenyeni.

Join the seminar now. https://teams.microsoft.com/l/meetup-join/19%3ameeting_ZDlkMDBhMmQtYTE2My00ZjQwLTkwYzMtYzg0NDM4MjQzNzlk%40thread.v2/0?context=%7b%22Tid%22%3a%224b1b908c-5582-4377-ba07-a36d65e34934%22%2c%22Oid%22%3a%223c1cd9bc-5ff1-479c-8fdf-8260b263f9d7%22%7d

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Harnessing Learner Analytics for Strategic Decision-Making and Operational Excellence

The 2025 Learner Analytics Institute themed 'Advancing Data-Driven Education with Learning Analytics, AI Ethics, and Emerging Technologies'

The Southern African Association for Institutional Research, in partnership with the Wits Business Intelligence Services, are hosting the 2025 Learner Analytics Institute themed Advancing Data-Driven Education with Learning Analytics, AI Ethics, and Emerging Technologies on 12 -14 May 2025. The aim is to empower research and data analytics offices with the tools and knowledge to harness the transformative potential of data and artificial intelligence in higher education. This event offers practical sessions on learning analytics, showcasing how data can be leveraged to enhance student success and institutional effectiveness. Key themes include AI Ethics and Privacy, ensuring the responsible deployment of Artificial Intelligence, and Change Management, which prepares institutions for smooth integration into data-driven practices. The programme also features cutting-edge applications of Large Language Models (LLMs), highlighting their capabilities in analysing open-ended responses and streamlining processes. For more details and registration, click here.  

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What is South African about the Paypal Mafia?”

A panel discussion will examines the connections and histories of the Paypal mafia and South Africa.

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From Research to Market talk by Prof Surya Raghu

Research to Market - Some examples of research-driven solutions and industry-defined problems.

Dr Surya Raghu obtained his PhD in Mechanical Engineering from Yale University and is a Visiting Professor at Wits. His expertise is in research commercialisation - transitioning of ideas, inventions and innovations into commercial products. Dr Raghu has inventions related to aerospace, automotive, consumer and biotechnology applications and has been awarded 15 US patents. He has been a co‐director and/or invited speaker in more than 60 workshops in about 30 countries on Innovation and Entrepreneurship, Research Commercialisation and Knowledge/Technology Transfer for Scientists, Engineers, University faculty, technology transfer officials and IP policy committees.

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Film Screening_Uprize!

Uprize!

This film looks at the political, social, and cultural conditions that shaped the 1976 uprising, how those ideas were transformed into liberatory action, and how those actions helped shape the democratic society we live in today. The filmmaker will be in conversation with the Jazz artist Malcom Jiyane who together with Nonku Phiri, Ariel Zamonsky, and Gontse Makhene made an original motion picture soundtrack for this film. You can listen on Spotify or here; https://youtu.be/6PQMj4uQvt8?si=yCQi9wtgu4C5ntIl

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To write or not to write? Reflections on decolonising knowledge production from the margins

Join us for another exciting seminar online or in person.

Researching about people’s lives is an exercise often met with suspicion due to how knowledge may be perceived as extractive and potentially exploitative. As African scholars interested in writing about the lived experiences of marginalised people, we are beleaguered amid calls for decolonising research epistemologies. What constitutes a decolonial approach of doing such studies? What struggles remain visible? Who are we to decide, and does this process not often betray who we are doing it for? If our answers to both these questions come from our positionality, could it not be that we are speaking for others, simply because some have spoken for them before us, in ways that we have decided were not humane? Today, we are compelled to return to questions of the agency of those we write about in negotiating their own lives in-between allegedly marginalising situations. In this seminar inspired by his forthcoming book Can Migration Studies be Decolonized? (Bristol University Press), Dr Kudakwashe Vanyoro comes into conversation with Dr Duduzile Ndlovu and Dr William Mpofu. He invites us to reflect on the idea of decolonising knowledge production from the margins and engage in necessary self criticism about limitations and drawbacks of a decolonial vocabulary and praxis, as we seek to locate ourselves in ongoing debates about what it means to write and think from the margins.

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J-PAL Job and Funding Opportunities for Staff, Post-Docs, and PhDs

Wits SEF invites you to the next Brown Bag Lunch (BBL) Seminar Series of 2025, presented by Clare Hofmeyr.

The purpose of your presentation is to share information about job and funding opportunities available at J-PAL Africa that are specifically relevant to academics working in the field of experimental economics in South Africa. Join here: https://teams.microsoft.com/l/meetup-join/19%3ameeting_YTJmZDkyZjktMGNiMC00YzY2LWI4YTEtYzhiYTFiZGMwMTky%40thread.v2/0?context=%7b%22Tid%22%3a%224b1b908c-5582-4377-ba07-a36d65e34934%22%2c%22Oid%22%3a%223c1cd9bc-5ff1-479c-8fdf-8260b263f9d7%22%7d

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The difficult patient

The ‘difficult patient’: why we need to reframe vulnerability in healthcare

Traditional liberal accounts of autonomy equate vulnerability with a diminishment in one’s autonomy. While this model of vulnerability suggests an increased susceptibility to harm, it may also grant access to specialised services which minimise the potential for harm and support self-determination. However, focusing on an individual’s capability as the measure for autonomy fails to recognise the broader structural inequalities one may face. Specifically, the equation of diminished autonomy with vulnerability raises problems within healthcare such as denial of healthcare, negative clinician views, and under-resourced treatment. In application, I show the effects of this on individuals with Borderline Personality Disorder. In response, I offer a solution via feminist relational accounts of autonomy which posit vulnerability as an asymmetrical relationship between individuals and the social and institutional networks they need for self-determination. Through this model, BPD’s vulnerability status is reaffirmed due to the structural stigmas they face from diagnosis to seeking treatment, thus removing the “difficult-patient” status.

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FNB Varsity Cup Rugby

FNB Varsity Cup Rugby Fixture

The JHB Derby is upon us! FNB Wits is set to take on FNB UJ on home ground, let’s pack the stands and show the team our support.

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From 5G to 6G: Understanding the building blocks of next-generation networks

Guest Lecture presented by Dr Alain R. Ndjiongue. Associate Professor, Wits University.

We will decode the revolutionary concepts behind 6G: its potential and challenges, and the innovative technologies that will power the next generation of the internet. From ultra-low latency to AI-driven networks, 6G will transform our lives.

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The Risks of Mirror Life - Webinar

The Risks of Mirror Life by Wilmot James and James Smith.

Leading scientists recently warned of the unprecedented risks of “mirror bacteria”, synthetic bacteria in which all biomolecules have reversed chirality. Mirror bacteria would likely evade many immune recognition mechanisms and result in other aspects of immunity being impaired, potentially leading to lethal infections in humans, non-human animals and plants. Mirror bacteria would be resistant to infection by bacteriophage, and likely also to predators that typically control bacterial populations. They might therefore disrupt ecosystems and cause severe and irreversible public health and environmental consequences. Containment, countermeasures, and the potential for misuse, all present major challenges. A recent paper in Science calls for further discussion on this topic, and argues that mirror life should not be created.

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Ethics Alive 2025

US Health Funding Cuts: Government’s Responsibility

Join a discuss looking asking if the our government response has been sufficient/appropriate? What should its response be? and What should South Africa do to be less dependent on foreign aid for health projects and research?

Panel include Fatima Hassan, founder of the Health Justice Initiative and human rights lawyer and social justice advocate.

Dr Kate Rees, Public Health Medicine Specialist at Anova Health Institute.

Dr Ashraf Grimwood, CEO of Kheth’Impilo, doctor and public health specialist Facilitator.

Professor Ames Dhai, Founding Director of the Steve Biko Centre for Bioethics, Immediate past Chairperson of UNESCO International Bioethics Committee.

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Africa-U.S. forum: President Donald Trump’s 100 days in office, views from Africa

Join the USC Annenberg Center on Communication Leadership and Policy as they host the upcoming Africa-U.S. forum.

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What does labour law have to do with street vendors?

Public Lecture by Professor Marlese von Broembsen

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Deaf Art and Film Festival

Join us in shaping a future where Deaf voices and stories are heard, seen and valued.

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FNB Varsity Cup Rugby

FNB Varsity Cup Rugby Fixture

Varsity Cup Rugby Round 7 will be hosted at the Wits Rugby Stadium, where FNB Wits will battle it out against FNB Maties

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The future of Africa-U.S. health diplomacy: Perspectives from the continent

This event is part of a 4-part series on the impact of U.S. global health cuts on Africa-U.S. relations.

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Procurement Litigation Masterclass

Enhance your skills in procurement litigation with our expert-led masterclass.

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Rethinking activism: Protecting peace, people and the planet - The challenges facing (civil) society

The Southern Centre for Inequality Studies (SCIS) invites you to a seminar presented by Mark Heywood.

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Walkabout at Jack Ginsberg Centre for book arts

The exhibition features books in which paper plays the starring role, such as books about paper and papermaking.

Join us for the last walkabout of Paper with curator David Paton at WAM in the JGCBA. He will provide a deeper understanding of the exhibition, offering fresh insights and new perspectives.

The exhibition features books in which paper plays the starring role, such as books about paper and papermaking. On view are books highlighting papercutting, folding, marbling, pulp-painting and watermarking, as well as books made from handmade or unusual papers.

Limited on-street parking is available, but we encourage the use of ride hailing systems for convenience.

Entrance is free. We look forward to seeing you there!

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Who speaks for the Afrikaner?

A webinar presented by The Wits Centre for Diversity Studies (WiCDS) and the Innovation Foundation for Democracy.

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World IP Day and Copyright Day

Wits Libraries and the Wits Innovation Centre proudly celebrates the vital role of intellectual Property (IP) rights.

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Ancient lakes: sustainability challenges during Anthropocene

Professor Mackay will discuss some of the key sustainability challenges that ancient lakes face.

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Microbial engineering for human and environmental health

For decades, researchers have worked to replicate the efficiency of biological processes for applications ranging from carbon sequestration to resource recovery

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Towards an Atlas of Uncertainty: Mobility and the Future of African Urbanism by Loren Landau

The seminar is part of the 2025 Migration & Society Seminar Series at the African Centre for Migration & Society (ACMS)

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“Speaking in Tongues” Series 2025

Multilingual Learning in Action: Translanguaging for Meaning-Making and Engagement

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Healthcare Law and policy masterclass

Join an insightful and in-depth discussion on healthcare-related fraud, waste and abuse.

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The Body is Present: Rethinking the Afterlives of Violence and Colonial Oppression

'Towards Critical Apartheid Studies' at the University of the Witwatersrand invites you to a conference on the afterlives of colonial-apartheid violence.

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Earth Day Screening of Capturing water

Prof Tracy-Lynn Field, the Claude Leon Chair in Earth Justice and Stewardship, is hosting a screening of Rehad Desai’s new documentary Capturing Water.

Capturing Water, which recently debuted at the Johannesburg Film Festival, documents the production of the water services and sanitation crisis plaguing South Africa’s urban centres. Rehad Desai is an alumnus of Wits University and one of South Africa’s leading documentary filmmakers and will be present for the discussion that follows.

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Reforming global institutions of governance at times of great power rivalry

Wits University and the Norwegian Institute of International Affairs (NUPI) are hosting a workshop.

The workshop brings together international, and South African based experts to discuss reform of global governance institutions and Africa’s response.

This year, 2025, marks a historic moment for Africa. For the first time the G20 summit is taking place in Africa amid a whirlwind start to the US President, Donald Trump’s historic comeback to the White House. As such, this African G20 summit takes place within great power rivalry that is threatening progressive institutional reforms and international norms. Pivotal in this disruptive global order are issues of governance, security, and migration. How will these issues play out in this increasingly mercurial geopolitical milieu? Where will Trump’s shock and awe approach leave global governance? How will it affect Africa?

This workshop will tease out these and other questions.

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The Body is Present: Rethinking the Afterlives of Violence and Legacies of Oppression

Join the 2nd Towards Critical Apartheid Studies Conference

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Old problems, new tools: Machine learning in the Sterkfontein caves

The Faculty of Science Lunchtime Lecture series showcases the cutting-edge and diverse research and teaching innovations.

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2nd Wits Global Fintech Conference

Join global fintech leaders, innovators, and academics at the forefront of digital finance.

Explore cutting-edge insights into blockchain, digital banking, AI in finance, and more.

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2nd Wits Global Climate Finance Conference

This conference unites thinkers and doers who are advancing climate-resilient economies. Be part of the movement redefining finance for a sustainable future.

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One Night Only Concert

An intimate performance with Vusi Mahlasela

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Between the cracks: Paul Weinberg

Join the opening of Between the cracks: Paul Weinberg, a new exhibition at WAM

The exhibition will be opened by historian Professor Thulasizwe Simpson from the Faculty of Humanities, University of Pretoria.

This retrospective exhibition brings together nearly five decades of Weinberg’s extensive photographic career. His work has taken him on multiple journeys and he has sought to go beyond the headlines, engaging in in-depth storytelling. Between the cracks: Paul Weinberg is grounded in the lives of ordinary people – often in the most difficult of times, under the constraints of racism and apartheid. Photography, for him, became both a form of resistance and a means of survival

Between the cracks: Paul Weinberg is curated by Fiona Rankin-Smith.
 
Parking for the opening event is available in the garage beneath the museum.
 
Museum hours: Tuesday – Saturday, 10:00 – 16:00
Entrance is free and all are welcome
Exhibition dates: 13 May – 26 July 2025

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Summer Institutes in Computational Social Science

A collaboration between Wits University and the School of Geography at Sustainable development Development at the University of St Andrews.

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7th African Regional Congress of ICMI on Mathematics Education

Join the African Chapter of the International Conference of Mathematics Instruction

For more information, visit the website.

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World Salt Day Webinar

Join this webinar to mark World Salt Awareness Week

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Yebo Gogga 2025

This year’s Yebo Gogga exhibition explores the incredible web of Connections—where every creature, ecosystem, and action is linked in ways you never imagined!

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Africa Day Celebrations

Hosted by the Wits School of Arts, the programme is packed with music, panel discussions and storytelling exploring a range of genres and contemporary topics.

The festivities kicked off on 12 May with a public lecture by Dr Rebecca Omordia, a British pianist and researcher delivering a public lecture titled Exploring Cultural Heritage in Concert Programming. More events below.

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Water-Energy-Food Nexus in Southern Africa: Engineering Sustainable Solutions

The office of the Executive Dean of the Faculty of Engineering and the Built Environment invites you to the 3rd FEBE Research Seminar

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Controlled Release Society (CRS) Local Chapter Webinar

Join this valuable opportunity to engage with emerging sciences at the interface of pharmaceutics, nanomedicine, and global health innovation.

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A Comparative Study of Colonial Legacies and Water Governance in South Africa and Zimbabwe

The Global Change Institute invites you to this lunchtime seminar

Public Seminar: Title: A Comparative Study of Colonial Legacies and Water Governance in South Africa and Zimbabwe by Dr Gwinyai Regis Taruvinga

Water governance has been widely debated in the academic field across Africa. Research indicates that the continent relies heavily on water resources for various activities, with agriculture and mining among the dominant sectors utilising this resource. In this context, this paper analyses the institutional framework within the water governance structures of South Africa and Zimbabwe. The paper argues that while progress has been made in developing new water legislation, the legacy of a skewed water system has led to challenges that both countries face in managing water resources.

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Time for new Governance conversations: Beyond Afropolitik and Towards Emergent Possibilities

Join Dr Bayo Akomolafe; Former Minister Jay Naidoo and Alinah K. Segobye for a timely re-evaluation of 'Afropolitik' in the context of African governance.

A keynote address by Bayo Akomolafe, with his emphasis on decolonizing thought, embracing complexity, and reimagining our relationship with the world, could significantly contribute to South Africa's proposed "National Dialogue" by offering a powerful framework for navigating the country's deep-seated challenges.

His work invites a shift away from seeking simplistic, divisive solutions and towards embracing the "messiness" of the present, which resonates with the need for a dialogue that acknowledges the multifaceted nature of South Africa's issues. By challenging conventional notions of identity and progress, Akomolafe's address could encourage participants to move beyond entrenched positions and explore new, more relational ways of being together.

His focus on listening to the "more-than-human" world could also prompt a deeper consideration of ecological justice and sustainability within the dialogue, while his emphasis on community and emergence could inspire innovative approaches to social cohesion and transformation. Ultimately, Akomolafe's keynote could serve as a catalyst for a more generative and transformative national conversation, one that prioritizes healing, interconnectedness, and the creation of a more just and sustainable future for all South Africans. 

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The Power of a Name: Reclaiming Identity and Reshaping Space in Gauteng through Geographical Naming

This seminar explore the significance of geographical naming and renaming in shaping national identity and cultural memory

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Africa Day keynote address by Dr Nkosazana Dlamini-Zuma

Former Chairperson of the African Union Dr Nkosazana Dlamini-Zuma will deliver the keynote address at this Africa Day event.

The commemorative event is themed Justice for Africans of African descent through reparations.

Dlamini-Zuma's keynote will be followed by a panel discussion of dynamic thinkers.

This event is hosted by the Faculty of Humanities, in partnership with the Postgraduate Association (PGA) and the Female Academic Leaders Fellowship Alumnae Association (FALFAA). Click for more Africa Day events.

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Africa Day 2025 Memorial Lecture

Memorial lecture in honour of Prof. Seth Oppong and the pursuit of epistemic justice for African people.

To be delivered by Stephen Baffour Adjei, Associate Professor of Psychology at the University of Oslo, Norway, and  Akenten Appiah-Menka University of Skills Training and Entrepreneurial Development (AAMUSTED), Kumasi, Ghana. This event is hosted by the School of Human and Community Development.

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Africa Day with Prof. Thuli Madonsela and Dr Alice Mogwe

Africa Day is a day of reflection on the journey of the African continent towards unity, freedom, and development.

As we mark Africa Day 2025, the continent stands at a critical juncture: facing both enduring challenges and unprecedented opportunities for growth and transformation. The African Union’s theme for 2025 is Justice for Africans and People of African Descent and South Africa, as the host of the G20 Summit, is pursuing the theme of fostering solidarity, equality and sustainable development.

These themes have informed our chosen theme: Justice, Solidarity, Sustainability for Africa: Pathways of Hope and Regeneration for one Africa which seeks to amplify the voices of African citizens and communities striving for inclusive development, accountable governance, and the realisation of Pan-African ideals.

Please join us for an afternoon of thought-provoking discussion, music, and celebration as we consider the next steps towards creating a better Africa for the future, guided by the principles of solidarity and justice.

Keynote Speakers:

We are thrilled to be joined by Professor Thuli Madonsela, director of the Centre for Social Justice (CSJ) at the University of Stellenbosch, South Africa’s former Public Protector, and a globally recognised human rights activist; and Dr Alice Mogwe, director of the Botswana Centre for Human Rights and president of the International Federation of Human Rights (FIDH).

This event is proudly co-hosted by MINDS, the Centre on African Philanthropy and Social Investment (CAPSI) at WBS, the Southern African Youth Forum (SAYEF), the African Philanthropy Network (APN) and the Institute for Justice and Reconciliation (IJR). More Africa Day events.

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Inaugural Lecture of Professor Helen Duh

Early-life experiences and later-life money attitudes, shopping, and consumption orientations: are there well-being consequences

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Walkabout at WAM with Alexander Appolis

A Neo-Arcadian Tale: BLACK Pan in South Africa's Pastoral Romance

This will be a wonderful opportunity to hear directly from Alexander Appolis as he shares personal reflections and unique insights into his exhibition, A Neo-Arcadian Tale: BLACK Pan in South Africa’s Pastoral Romance. Please be aware that due to ongoing road upgrades, street parking availability is very limited. We encourage the use of e-hailing systems for your convenience.

Presented as the final instalment of Alexander Appolis’ PhD in Creative Work, A Neo-Arcadian Tale invites viewers into a poetic world shaped by hidden or marginalised archives. Moving between inner and outer landscapes where the shadow of Pan appears, the exhibition begins with a lingering question:
 
"On the night of nights, when the awed whisper ran through the world – ‘Pan – Pan is dead’ – did the gods of Greece and Rome in very truth droop and die? Or were they drawn into the service of the new faith, and bent to its use?"  Fairbridge, D. 1928. The Pilgrims Way in South Africa. Oxford University Press: Humphrey Milford. p.187
  
Museum hours: Tuesday – Saturday, 10:00 – 16:00
Entrance is free and all are welcome
Exhibition dates: 20 May – 5 July 2025

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Cosmic Echoes: Shared Sky Indigenous Art

An exhibition from 23 May to 5 July 2025 at the Wits Origins Centre.

The Wits Origins Centre, the SKA Observatory (SKAO) and the SA Radio Astronomy Observatory (SARAO) take great pleasure in inviting you to the Johannesburg opening of the 'Cosmic Echoes: Shared Sky Indigenous Art' exhibition.

The exhibition features work of Indigenous Artists from the Northern Cape and Australia, connecting cutting-edge science with ancient wisdom and understanding of the heavens.
The exhibition is made possible by SKAO, SARAO and the Wits Science Faculty, with the Wajarri Group and CSIRO.

RSVP for opening (22 May at 6pm) is essential: khomotso.mokori@skao.int. Enquiries: tammy.hodgskiss@wits.ac.za.
Exhibition is open for visits from 23 May 2025 during regular museum hours. Tickets on webtickets or at the door.

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Writing Lives II: Place and its Shadow

An evening of readings by Creative Writing Alumni in support of the Creative Writing Bursary, original evocations of Africa as a setting

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Advancing inclusive and equitable global governance and development in the times of polycrisis

The Wits School of Governance, The National School of Government and partners invite you to this hybrid seminar.

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Inaugural lecture of Professor Yusuf Isa

Changing Wheels: Lessons from Fossil Fuels in the Pursuit of Sustainable Energy

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Dr Dizu Mzikantu Plaajties: Recital and Workshop

Hosted as part of the Africa Month celebrations organised by the Wits School of Arts.

The two-week-long programme is packed with music, panel discussions and storytelling exploring a range of genres and contemporary topics.

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Mass Choir Festival for Africa Day

A lecture and music festival featuring choirs, soloists with the Johannesburg Philharmonic Orchestra.

The two-week-long programme is packed with music, panel discussions and storytelling exploring a range of genres and contemporary topics.

This Mass for Justice will be preceded by a keynote address on the theme The Music of Africa as a source of resilience by Prof. Tinyiko Maluleke. 

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Cochrane Library Evidence

Communicating our research to different audiences

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The Role of Smart Cities in Mitigating Climate Change

Join us for a webinar on how smart cities can help fight climate change — featuring leading voices in policy, planning, and sustainability.

The African Centre for the Study of the United States (ACSUS) at Wits University invites you to a vital webinar on: The Role of Smart Cities in Mitigating Climate Change Date: Wednesday, 04 June 2025 Time: 15:00 (SAST) As climate change accelerates, cities must adopt innovative solutions to build resilience and sustainability. This webinar brings together experts from academia, policy, and industry to explore how smart city technologies and strategies can reduce environmental impact, enhance urban governance, and promote inclusive development. Our distinguished speakers include: Ms. Valerie Buthelezi, PhD candidate and researcher specializing in climatology and sustainability science at Wits University. Mr Ben Polsky, International Strategy Fellow at the Special Competitive Studies Project (SCSP), with extensive experience in digital infrastructure and public policy. Dr. Darlington Mushongera, Senior Researcher at the Gauteng City-Region Observatory (GCRO), expert in urban planning, governance, and water service delivery. Join us for insightful discussions on the challenges and opportunities smart cities present in tackling climate change across Africa and beyond. Register now: https://forms.gle/kU5cHGzSBABFLefXA We look forward to your participation!

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Make-a-Book with the Jack Ginsberg Centre for Book Art

Join the Wits Art Museum for a creative workshop where you will learn how to make a book using the Hungarian Map Fold.

The fold is a unique, sculptural book form crafted from a single sheet of paper. This clever folding technique creates a surprising effect: as you open the book, the paper unfolds to reveal the entire page in one dramatic motion! It’s simple, fun, and offers endless possibilities for creative expression. Please be aware that due to ongoing road upgrades, street parking availability is very limited. We encourage the use of e-hailing systems for your convenience. All ages are most welcome. All materials will be supplied. The workshop will take place in the WAM Café / Gallery Forecourt area.  

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Breaking barriers through technology

Ubuntu ethics: A holistic approach to AI policy in Africa.

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Africa-US Universities Network Conference

A hybrid conference exploring Africa–US academic collaboration, innovation, and partnership in higher education and global engagement.

The Africa–US Universities Network Conference will take place from 1 to 3 July 2025 at the University of the Witwatersrand in Johannesburg, South Africa.

The Conference is hosted by the African Centre for the Study of the United States (ACSUS), the conference brings together African and U.S. universities to strengthen academic collaboration, institutional partnerships, and global engagement in higher education.

The conference builds on the Africa–US Universities Network, a platform established following the 2022 US–Africa Leaders’ Summit, and is supported by leading institutions including Howard University, George Washington University, the University of Southern California’s Annenberg Center, and the Public Diplomacy Council of America. Key themes include: Africa–Diaspora relations; joint academic programmes and student exchange; digital learning and innovation; cultural diplomacy; decolonising higher education; university–industry–government collaboration; and entrepreneurship in knowledge economies. The programme will feature keynote addresses, panel discussions, research presentations, and networking sessions..  More information: www.africa-usforum.africa/events/advancing-academic-collaboration-between-africa-and-the-united-states/ 

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Slam Sculpture workshop with Joni Brenner

Join artist Joni Brenner for a short walkabout of her exhibition IMPACT followed by a hands-on workshop on clay slam sculptures.

Join artist Joni Brenner for a short walkabout of her exhibition IMPACT followed by a hands-on workshop on clay slam sculptures – exploring impact, force and interaction in clay sculpture creation. R150 per person. Tickets on webtickets; limited space available. No children under 10 years. Enquiries: tammy.hodgskiss@wits.ac.za

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IMPACT with Joni Brenner

Join artist Joni Brenner for a walkabout of her solo exhibition IMPACT.

Join artist Joni Brenner for a walkabout of her solo exhibition IMPACT. The exhibition presents an in-depth artistic response to a scientific subject—the 2.5-2.8-million-year-old Taung skull. This exhibition explores themes of fragility and survival, destruction and creation, uncertainty, loss, pressure, and chance. Tickets on webtickets or at the door; R30 kids/Wits staff, R60 general.

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The art of medicine for better brain health with Dr Kirti Ranchod

Join Dr Kirti Ranchod, neurologist and brain health specialist, for a session exploring neuroasthetics.

Join Dr Kirti Ranchod, neurologist and brain health specialist, for a session exploring neuroasthetics and neurological intersections of science and art. R30 kids/Wits staff, R60 general. Tickets on Webtickets or at the door.

Enquiries: bookings.origins@wits.ac.za; 0117174700

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Afro-Brazilian Voices: Literature, Art, and Diaspora

Wits is honoured to welcome Djamila Ribeiro — one of Brazil’s leading public intellectuals and a prominent voice on Black feminism and race.

Afro-Brazilian Voices: Literature, Art, and Diaspora is a cultural and intellectual event that gathers leading Afro-Brazilian scholars, artists, and performers around themes of identity, memory, resistance, and diaspora.

This event, collaboratively organised by the Embassy of Brazil in Pretoria, the Government of the Brazilian State of Bahia, the Flotar platform, and Wits University, features the launch, in South Africa, of the book Where We Stand by Professor Djamila Ribeiro. It introduces the FLIPEBA festival, which advances Afro-diasporic literary traditions and reading practices, and presents compelling visual narratives, including Ngongo: Paths of Memory Reinvention and the Photo-Diaspora Archive, and includes a dance performance by Cátia Janaína. The event culminates in book signings and a cultural exchange over Brazilian refreshments. It will be held in the Humanities Graduate Centre from 12:00–14:00 on Wednesday, 18 June (with a photographic exhibition by Leticia Franca in the Wits Anthropology Museum from 18–20 June). 

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Free Family Make-and-Create workshop

Join the Wits Art Museum for a creative workshop inspired by the exhibition Between the Cracks: Paul Weinberg.

Experienced docents Pam and Elona will lead an interactive photo treasure hunt through the exhibition, encouraging families to look closely and engage with the artworks on display. This will be followed by a hands-on art-making activity for all ages, offering families a chance to explore their creativity in a relaxed and welcoming environment.

All materials are provided, and no booking is necessary.

Please be aware that due to ongoing road upgrades, street parking availability is very limited.

We encourage the use of e-hailing systems for your convenience.

Perfect for families and creatives of all ages — come get making with us!

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Helping Society Confront the Climate Crisis through University, Industry Collaborations

Wits University and Wits Enterprise invite you to an engaging event that bridges academic insight and business action in response to the climate crisis.

Join leading researchers, industry experts, and fellow decision-makers for a morning of meaningful dialogue and hands-on collaboration focused on developing scalable climate solutions through university,
industry partnerships.

Theme:

Building Bridges: Brick by Climate Action Brick

What to Expect:

• Panel Discussion:

A thought-provoking exchange between academic and industry leaders on how collaborative research can drive climate innovation, with opportunities for audience participation and Q&A.

• Collaborative Simulation:

Exercise Participate in a guided, hands-on group exercise designed to spark fresh thinking, reveal unique organisational strengths, and foster co-created solutions to climate challenges. Through a series of structured prompts and storytelling activities, you'll work alongside fellow participants to explore practical, collaborative responses to real-world sustainability scenarios, all in a format that encourages creativity, dialogue, and strategic insight.

• Networking Bingo & Visual Showcase:

Connect with peers through a structured networking game, explore creative solutions from the LSP session, and contribute your commitment to the symbolic "Partnership Tower."

Why Attend?

This is not just another seminar, it's a strategic platform to generate new ideas, build partnerships, and explore how research can support your organisation's sustainability objectives.

RSVP here by 23rd June 2025.

#WitsG20

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‘Cosmic Echoes’ Interactive Youth Day Conversations

Conversations with Sylvia Vollenhoven, Murphy Morobe, Kamogelo Walaza, Junior Oliphant and Basil Appollis.

Almost half a Century since the uprisings of Soweto '76!! Youth and elders inspired by the achievements of the past and the innovation of the present.

Join us for a rare interactive event. Cosmic Echoes Exhibition Curator Sylvia Vollenhoven in conversation with:

• The iconic Murphy Morobe. Anti apartheid youth leader, trade unionist, politician and conservationist.
• One of the M&G Top 200 Young South
  Africans Kamogelo Walaza, an independent curator.
• Exhibition Artist Junior Oliphant. Sasol
  Young Artist Awardee.
• Renowned Theatre Director and Actor Basil Appollis, Cosmic Echoes Performance Art Facilitator.

Exhibiton walkabout & refreshments follow.

Tickets on webtickets or at the door. R60 adults, R30 students and pensioners.

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Inaugural Lecture of Professor Ziyaad Dangor

Safeguarding the Future: Protecting Young Lives from Disease and Death

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Inaugural Lecture of Professor Deepak Kar

Novel Dark Matter Searches at the large Hadron Collider at CERN

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Walkabout of A Neo-Arcadian Tale: BLACK Pan in South Africa’s Pastoral Romance

Hear from artist Alexander Appolis as he offers reflections and unique insights into the exhibition.

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Research Seminar: Mechanical & Biomolecular Biomarkers for Breast Cancer Detection and Treatment

The office of the Assistant Dean: Research and Innovation of the Faculty of Engineering and the Built Environment invites you to a research seminar.

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Inaugural Lecture of Professor Eliton Chivandi

Reimagining Livestock Farming: Integrating research interventions and one health for a resilient future.

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Wits Art Museum walkabout: Weird, Wonderful, Quirky and Peculiar

Curators David Paton and Ciara Struwig will offer a deeper understanding of the exhibition, sharing insightful explorations of its themes and artworks.

Weird, Wonderful, Quirky and Peculiar centres on Salvador Dalí’s 1973 Dix Recettes d'Immortalité (Ten Recipes for Immortality), a landmark in his graphic work that offers a window into his surreal and philosophical universe. In response, the curators present a selection of artists books that reflect similarly unusual, humorous, and personal takes on the world.

Visitors will encounter asemic writing, cryptic symbols, and unconventional book forms exploring meaning through visual oddity and material play. From cartographic dreams to pigeon-photographed landscapes, the exhibition invites you to experience the strange and wonderful through the way artists play with the form and function of the book to reveal strange and personal views of the world.

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Understanding climate risks with local communities: The case of eMadlangeni, KwaZulu-Natal

Global Change Institute invites you the monthly lunchtime seminar.

Climate change poses a growing risk for rural South African communities which face increased exposure to extreme weather events. Despite these challenges, communities demonstrate coping mechanisms through Indigenous and Local Knowledge (ILK), rooted in traditional practices, environmental indications, and spiritual beliefs.

This paper examines ILK’s role in disaster risk reduction (DRR) using a qualitative case study approach, drawing on focus group discussions and interviews; analyzed through Dekens’ framework including ILK pathways. This paper shows that ILK is transmitted across generations, used by elders for early warning and accessed by youth yet is threatened by globalization and institutional biases. This paper calls for hybrid DRR strategies that integrate ILK with scientific knowledge, promote intergenerational transfer, and support inclusive decision-making, thus contributing to more culturally relevant and community-driven climate resilience efforts.

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In Motion 'allegories' album launch tour

Join the In Motion 'allegories' album launch tour

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The GONG Project

Wits Music Presents The GONG Project by Carlo Mombelli and Siegfried Kutterer

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A DAY AS A SCIENTIST AT WITS

Join a science adventure on Wits campus!

Join a science adventure on Wits campus! This is a science experience for the whole family which will give an opportunity for curious minds to learn about minerals and metals, explore fossils and ancient objects, get fired up about chemistry and journey through space and time. Activities are aimed at kids of primary school age, but there is something for everyone. Activities around campus include: Archaeological excavation, glow-in-the-dark rocks, ochre painting, clay skull making, chemistry demos and more! Come anytime; join for an hour or more - it's up to you!

Starts at Wits Origins Centre. Entrance for Origins R100  - or R300 for a family of 4 (webtickets or at the door if space is still available). Entrance for Digital Dome R40/R70 (pre-booking recommended; webtickets).
Enquiries: minsa@gssa.org.za

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NEUROPLASTICITY in Art & Science, with Dr Kirti Ranchod

Join Dr Kirti Ranchod, neurologist and brain health specialist, for a mental wellness and brain health session in the Origins Centre museum.

The interactive discussion will explore plasticity, how to improve plasticity and why it is important for your brain health. More suitable for adults and kids over 10 years.

Tickets on Webtickets or at the door. R60 general, R30 kids/Wits staff (included in the 'Day as a Scientist' ticket).

Enquiries: bookings.origins@wits.ac.za; 0117174700

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Public Lecture and Exhibition opening! THE SECRET LIFE OF PLANTS by Isabel Hofmeyr

Prof Isabel Hofmeyr will be giving a public lecture followed by a reception and opening event for her temporary exhibition at Origins Centre

Prof Isabel Hofmeyr will be giving a public lecture ‘Plants, Politics and Print in South Africa’ followed by a reception and opening event for her temporary exhibition at Origins Centre ‘The Secret Life of Plants’.
Spaces are limited, please RSVP to Bongiwe.Ndulula@wits.ac.za to secure your spot.

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The ‘Oil and Water’ Dynamics of Migration Governance in West Africa

Dr Balkissa Daouda Diallo uses a multi-level governance lens to examine the case of Niger’s management of ‘transit’ migration to Europe from 2015 – 2020.

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Earth Quest Solutions inaugural event in partnership with Babanango

The School of Geoscience and Babanango have partnered to offer an unparalleled experience that blend a bush vacation with rich educational insights of geology.

The exclusive weekend getaway is timed perfectly to coincide with the launch of Earth Quest Solutions; an entity set up by the school to advance the profession and to create impact. This is a celebration of heritage, marked by exploring the ancient rocks that tell the story of our planet. Find out more.

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Global Change Institute Monthly Seminar

Title: Traversing the Maze – An Unconventional Career Path From Engineering to Climate Science and Forestry. Presented By : Dr. Caroline Hardy

No-one ever said that your career has to follow a straight path. Dr Caroline Hardy tells the story of a non-linear career trajectory. Starting with studies in Computer Science and Mechanical Engineering, she went on to build a computer-vision-driven self-solving maze system and attended summer school at the European Space Agency (ESA), delving into the depths of Earth Observation. It was during this time that her passion for studying the Earth through remote sensing was sparked. She went on to earn a Master’s and a PhD, focusing her research on using remote sensing data to identify and track hazardous storms and to investigate the surface urban heat island effect.

Amongst other roles, Caroline most recently worked as a principal data scientist where she analyzed hyperspectral data and created image processing routines and statistical tools to support geologists in their quest to identify the minerals which lie beneath the Earth’s surface.

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Resilient Health Systems in Public Crises

The School of Therapeutic Sciences invites staff to attend the Biennial Research Day.

The title of the event is Resilient Health Systems in Public Health Crises with the following sub-themes: 

1. Mental Health Resilience
2. Clinical Evidence for Health Systems
3. Technology & Innovation
4. Education & Policy

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Mandela Day Challenge

Wits University will officially mark Mandela Day on 25 July when our students are back from the winter break.

Our mission is to turn the Great Hall Piazza into a sea of generosity - one can at a time. Donations of canned food can be delivered at the Piazza from 09:00 onwards. Your generosity will contribute to efforts by the Wits Food Banks and help to combat food insecurity on campus. This appeal for support and solidarity is for all staff and students, and extended to the public and friends of the University. 

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Okae Molao Album Launch Event

Acclaimed musician Mdu Mtshali is set to host the official album launch event for his debut project, Okae Molao.

Titled Okae Molao — meaning “Where is the law?” the album is a soul-stirring journey that delves into themes of purpose, spirituality, and healing. It blends Mdu’s signature jazz roots with rich African influences, introspective lyrics, and a sonic depth that showcases his evolution as a composer and performer.

In what is set to be a powerful live showcase, Mdu Mtshali will be joined on stage by an ensemble of highly respected musicians, including: Jimmy Mngwandi, Sydney Mavundla, Kenny Williams, Thami Mahlangu, Vuyo Tshuma, Vusi Nhlapo, and special guest Mimi Mtshali.

Guests can expect an evening of live music, storytelling, and the opportunity to engage with
the creative energy behind the album.

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COSMOCENO @ the Wits Anglo American Digital Dome

Understanding Visual Music - UVM 2025 brings together a network of festivals, artists, and researchers.

This event will showcase immersive audiovisual works in five university domes in Brazil and one in South Africa. Additionally, there will be exhibitions, lectures, round-tables, and workshops at UFSM in Santa Maria, Brazil, all of which will be open to the public and free of charge.

The theme for this edition is "COSMOSENO," reflecting the current socio-environmental crisis and calling for a human re-evaluation of our relationships with the Cosmos.

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Critical Thinking in Health: Decolonising Health Systems and Epidemiology

Lunch time seminar with guest speaker Professor Oscar Feo Isturiz.

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Nuclear Re-imagined: A Youth Perspective

This event aims to inspire and empower young South Africans interested in energy conservation.

View programme

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Book launch: Research & Activism: Ruth First and Activist Research

Join this book launch and conversation with Professor Saleem Badat.

The Wits School of Governance and Wits Doctoral Academy invites you to the launch of the Research and  Activism: Ruth First and Activist Research in conversation with Professor Saleem Badat, Research Professor of History, University of the Free State, Vice-Chancellor of Rhodes University.

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Inaugural Lecture of Professor Nicky Falkof

Risk, anxiety and moral panic in Johannesburg.

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Wits Interfaculty Symposium on Climate, Sustainability and Inequality

Professor Imraan Valodia, will be hosting the annual Inter-faculty Research Symposium on Climate, Sustainability, and Inequality.

The symposium will be a platform to disseminate climate research throughout the university, to identify new areas of research, and to foster interdisciplinary collaboration.

As an accredited observer to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change, Wits is allocated badges to attend the COP meetings, happening this year in Belém, Brazil from 10-12 November. Each observer organisation is allocated a certain number of badges but we do not yet know how many. However, we could like to gauge interest provisionally for who would be interested in receiving a badge to attend COP30 this year. Please complete this form if you are interested in receiving a badge AND are likely to have your own funding to cover associated expenses to attend. Please note that completing the form does not guarantee that you will be allocated a badge. 

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Inaugural Lecture of Professor Jennifer Botha

Tracing impacts of mass extinctions.

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Walkabout at Wits Art Museum

Through the Eye of a Needle: Remembering the Covid-19 Pandemic in 2025.

Join a walkabout at WAM of the newly installed exhibition 2020 Through the Eye of a Needle: Remembering the Covid-19 Pandemic in 2025 curated by Julia Charlton. 

Professor Brenda Schmahmann — South African art historian and current South African Research Chair in South African Art and Visual Culture (SARChI) at the University of Johannesburg's Faculty of Art, Design and Architecture (FADA) — will be in conversation with Julia Charlton, Senior Curator at WAM. Together, they will share reflections and insights into the embroideries on exhibition, created by members of the Mapula Embroidery Project, a community art collective of women embroiderers based in the Winterveld and Hammanskraal.
 
This year marks five years since the World Health Organisation declared Covid-19 to be a global pandemic. The spread of the disease had devastating consequences worldwide, with appalling loss of life, terrible emotional strain, extreme social disruption and economic devastation. The anniversary offers us the opportunity to reflect on that time by considering an interactive exhibition of embroidered textiles dealing with Covid-19 and its impact on the community. 

 
Museum hours: Tuesday – Saturday 10:00 – 16:00
Exhibition dates: 22 July – 13 September 2025

We look forward to seeing you there!

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The structure of the space of gauge invariant operators at finite N

The Mandelstam Institute for Theoretical Physics and the National Institute of Theoretical Physics and Computational Sciences will host a Special Seminar.

Speaker: Robert de Mello Koch (Huzhou U. )

Abstract: The space of invariants for a single matrix is generated by traces containing at most N matrices per trace. We extend this analysis to multi-matrix models at finite N. Using the Molien-Weyl formula, we compute partition functions for various multi-matrix models at different N and interpret them through trace relations. This allows us to identify a complete set of invariants, naturally divided into two distinct classes: primary and secondary. The full invariant ring of the multi-matrix model is reconstructed via the Hironaka decomposition, where primary invariants act freely, while secondary invariants satisfy quadratic relations. Significantly, while traces with at most matrices are always present, we also find invariants involving more than N matrices per trace. The primary invariants correspond to perturbative degrees of freedom, whereas the secondary invariants emerge as non-trivial background structures. The number of primary invariants can be computed by performing a complete gauge fixing, which identifies the number of independent physical degrees of freedom. By comparing the Molien-Weyl partition function to a complementary counting based on the restricted Schur polynomial basis we argue that the number of secondary invariants must exhibit exponential growth of the form e^{cN^2} at large N, with c a constant.

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Activity day: THE ORIGINS OF MATHEMATICAL THOUGHT

Activity day: THE ORIGINS OF MATHEMATICAL THOUGHT Join us for a morning of engaging explorations into the origins of mathematical thinking

Date: SATURDAY 2 AUGUST 2025
Time: 10:00 - 13:00
Location: ORIGINS CENTRE

10:00-13:00 Hands-on activities
11:00 Public Lecture by Prof Loyiso Nongxa ‘The trailblazers in South African mathematics’
12:00 ‘The math of sound’ deep listening workshop

*Activities aimed at high school learners, but all are welcome*

Co-hosted by the Wits School of Mathematics. In celebration of National Science Week.

Tickets: R50 learners/students; R90 adults (Webtickets or at the door)
https://www.webtickets.co.za/performance.aspx?itemid=1573049032

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2nd Professor Barry Dwolatzky Memorial Lecture

AI in Africa: Innovation under Constraints

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Prof Loyiso Nongxa ‘The Trailblazers in South African Mathematics’

The lecture is part of an activity day exploring the origins of mathematical thinking. Co-hosted with the Wits School of Mathematics.

The talk will focus on two mathematicians of disadvantaged backgrounds who defied the odds and received their doctoral degrees in mathematics during the apartheid era!

Professor Ismail Mohamed and Dr Joe Mokoena, both WITS Alumni.

Loyiso Nongxa is a South African mathematician, chairperson of the National Research Foundation of South Africa (NRF) and a former Vice Chancellor and Principal of the Wits University.

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Artist Walkabout: The Secret Life of Plants

Join Prof Isabel Hofmeyr for a walkabout of her exhibition ‘The Secret Life of Plants in the Barnes Road Herbarium’.

The Barnes Road Herbarium, in Brixton, houses the studio where this exhibition was made. A herbarium is a collection of preserved plant specimens, pressed and mounted on sheets of heavy white paper. The technique used is botanical contact printing (also called ecoprinting), in which plant material is tightly bundled with fabric or paper and boiled or steamed, transferring an imprint of the leaf onto the substrate. The biochemistry of leaves is central to this process and affects the way they print, often producing unexpected results. 

Both the herbarium and ecoprinting involve pressed plants to produce forms of botanical illustration, but with a difference.

This exhibition explores and presents imperial technologies of illustration, herbarium sheets and ecoprinting where realistic renditions are disrupted by the secret chemical lives of leaves - revealing the biochemistry of the leaf not visible to the human eye. We witness the death of a leaf in the birth of the image.    

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The Gold Reef Hustle

Turn your hustle into gold

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Free Family Make-and-Create Workshop at WAM

Join the Wits Art Museum for a Free Family Make-and-Create workshop

The workshop is inspired by the exhibition 2020 Through the Eye of a Needle: Remembering the Covid-19 Pandemic in 2025. 

The session begins with an interactive walkabout led by WAM docents Pam and Elona, offering families the opportunity to reflect on selected works and the stories they evoke. This will be followed by a hands-on activity where you can draw, fold, and reveal — encouraging thoughtful engagement with the exhibition’s themes through artistic expression.

All ages welcome, all materials are provided, and no booking or art experience is required. 

Please be aware that due to ongoing road upgrades, street parking availability is very limited. We encourage the use of e-hailing systems for your convenience.

Perfect for families and creatives of all ages — come get making with us!

Museum hours are Tuesday - Saturday 10:00 - 16:00
Entrance is free, all are welcome.

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Queering Sex Work and Mobility in South Africa

Doctoral Researcher Ntokozo Yingwana explores the intersections of sex work, mobility, migration and gendered sexualities through a queer lens.

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Celebrating the Intellectual Legacy of Chabani Manganyi

Join the annual Narrative Enquiry for Social Transformation colloquium.

This year NEST is celebrating and commemorating the legacy of Professor Chabani Manganyi, published author and distinguished psychologist. The keynote speaker is Kopano Ratele, Professor of Psychology at the University of Stellenbosch and head of the Nhu Space for Critical and Creative Thought.

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Book Discussion with Professor Mandla Radebe

Join a book discussion with author of Apartheid Did Not Die: South Africa’s Unfinished Revolution, Professor Mandla Radebe.

Join the Wits Centre for Journalism and Wits Department of Media Studies for a book discussion with author of Apartheid Did Not Die: South Africa’s Unfinished Revolution, Professor Mandla Radebe. 

Radebe is the Founding Director of the Centre for Data and Digital Communication at the University of Johannesburg, confronts the unsettling truth that for many, the democratic era has not dismantled the architecture of apartheid – it has merely repainted it. He interrogates the role of the media in shaping public consciousness and maintaining elite hegemony, and challenges us to reckon with the unfinished business of justice and true liberation in South Africa. 

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Concert to celebrate Female Academic Leaders

A celebration to mark strides by FALF, a programme that seeks to develop a pipeline of women academic leaders.

The Female Academic Leaders Fellowship (FALF) provides support to African and coloured women in academia who are underrepresented in high structures of knowledge production and leadership. Learn more about FALF. The celebrations are divided into two sections starting with discussions and the launch of the research Chair in Entrepreneurship and Financial Inclusion. The day will culminate in a concert starting at 14:00. RSVP to secure your ticket to the concert. Wits students stand a chance to win a laptop.

Related articles:

Towards gender parity in academic leadership

FALF leads the way in deepening the knowledge project

Wits’ transformation agenda places focus on female leaders

FALF's inaugural research symposium showcases work by women scientists

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National Science Week shows and talks

The Wits Anglo American Digital Dome is celebrating National Science Week 2025 with a range of public events.

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National Science Week shows and talks

The Wits Anglo American Digital Dome is celebrating National Science Week 2025 with a range of public events.

Add event to calendar

National Science Week shows and talks

The Wits Anglo American Digital Dome is celebrating National Science Week 2025 with a range of public events.

Add event to calendar

National Science Week shows and talks

The Wits Anglo American Digital Dome is celebrating National Science Week 2025 with a range of public events.

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‘Women’s Brain Health’ session with Dr Kirti Ranchod

This interactive session will focus on menopause, hormones and brain function including memory and focus

This interactive session will focus on menopause, hormones and brain function including memory and focus; while drawing on aspects of the Origins Centre museum and cultural heritage. Dr Kirti Ranchod is a neurologist and brain health specialist.

Tickets on webtickets or at the door. R60 general, R30 kids/Wits staff/students. 

Women's Day special - pay for 1 ticket and get into 3 events! Joni Brenner walkabout at 10:00, Kirti Ranchod mental wellness at 11:00, Lili-La performance at 15:00.

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‘Lili-La’ – a performance by Mandifeze

Drawing inspiration from African traditions and spiritual practices

Drawing inspiration from African traditions and spiritual practices, their art centers on ingoma—a harmonious blend of song and rhythm used for connection, release, and healing. Through their performances, MandiFeze not only communicates with their audiences but also honours ancestral struggles, ensuring their stories and sacrifices are remembered.

Women's Day special - pay for 1 ticket and get into 3 events! Joni Brenner walkabout at 10:00, Kirti Ranchod mental wellness at 11:00, Lili-La performance at 15:00.

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Free walkabout for Wits staff – ‘IMPACT’ with Joni Brenner

We invite Wits staff to join artist Joni Brenner for the last walkabouts of her exhibition IMPACT.

The exhibition presents an in-depth artistic response to a scientific subject—the 2.5-2.8-million-year-old Taung Child skull; exploring themes of fragility and survival, destruction and creation, uncertainty, loss, pressure, and chance. Exhibition final day: 16 August 2025

Joni Brenner is an artist and lecturer in Interdisciplinary Arts and Culture Studies at the Wits School of Arts.

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Artist Walkabout – ‘IMPACT’ with Joni Brenner

Join artist Joni Brenner for a walkabout of her exhibition IMPACT.

This exhibition explores themes of fragility and survival, destruction and creation, uncertainty, loss, pressure, and chance. Exhibition final day: 16 August 2025

Joni Brenner is an artist and lecturer in Interdisciplinary Arts and Culture Studies at the Wits School of Arts.

Tickets at the door or on webtickets. Students, kids R30; general R60. Tickets allow full museum access. 

Women's Day special - pay for 1 ticket and get into 3 events! Joni Brenner walkabout at 10:00, Kirti Ranchod mental wellness at 11:00, Lili-La performance at 15:00.

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Free walkabout for Wits staff – ‘IMPACT’ with Joni Brenner

We invite Wits staff to join artist Joni Brenner for the last walkabouts of her exhibition IMPACT.

The exhibition presents an in-depth artistic response to a scientific subject—the 2.5-2.8-million-year-old Taung Child skull; exploring themes of fragility and survival, destruction and creation, uncertainty, loss, pressure, and chance. Exhibition final day: 16 August 2025

Joni Brenner is an artist and lecturer in Interdisciplinary Arts and Culture Studies at the Wits School of Arts.

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Slam sculpture workshop with Joni Brenner

Join Joni Brenner

Join artist Joni Brenner for a hands-on workshop on clay slam sculptures – exploring impact, force and interaction in clay sculpture creation. Inspired by her exhibition IMPACT an artist’s response to the Taung Child skull. You will also enjoy a short walkabout of the exhibition itself, as well as enjoy the full museum experience.

R150 per person. Tickets on webtickets. limited space available. No children under 10 years. 

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Walkabout of ‘The Secret Life of Plants in the Barnes Road Herbarium’ with Prof Isabel Hofmeyr

Join Professor Isabel Hofmeyr for a walkabout about of her exhibition and a short archival herbarium pressing demo.

The exhibition was made in a studio in the Barnes Road Herbarium. This exhibition explores and presents imperial technologies of illustration, herbarium sheets and eco-printing where realistic renditions are disrupted by the secret chemical lives of leaves - revealing the biochemistry of the leaf not visible to the human eye. We witness the death of a leaf in the birth of the image. 

Isabel Hofmeyr is Professor Emeritus at the University of the Witwatersrand.

Exhibitions runs until 6 September 2025. 

This walkabouts is free thank to WISER and Prof Hofmeyr. Spaces are limited, please RSVP to secure your spot.

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‘Grond Stories’ workshop with /Xam Fortuin

The Grond Stories workshop experience returns to the Origins Centre!

Explore art as a way of being, as our ancestors once did, and engage with a creative process led by a collective vision. To get us into this state of oneness, we will begin with a gentle, energising session of Tai Chi and Qigong, guided by Lâoshī Michélle Festus. Then artist /Xam Fortuin, will introduce his practice and philosophy around art as a way of being, guiding us through audio-visual exercises that involve drawing and painting. You will work with natural materials collected from Aba Té Farm, which will be transformed into a sculptural installation. Become part of the growing story! Experience a grounding, creative process that will connect you to your mind, body and spirit.

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Smart Cities Lab

Re-imagining Smart African Cities: Concepts, Practices and Implementation.

The African Centre for the Study of the United States (ACSUS) at Wits University is pleased to announce the upcoming Africa-US Smart Cities Lab, taking place from 20–22 August 2025.

Hosted at Wits, the Lab will bring together over 120 participants from government, academia, international organisations, and the private sector. It will focus on smart city policy, governance, digital infrastructure, sustainability, and innovation—drawing on African and US expertise.

Confirmed partners include the African Development Bank, Microsoft, Sister Cities International, SALGA, Waterfall City, and Charter Cities International, among others. A special Urban20 session will align the Lab with South Africa’s hosting of the G20 Summit in November 2025.

Wits staff are encouraged to participate, attend, or support this flagship event that highlights our university’s role in shaping Africa’s urban future

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Understanding the climate obligations of South Africa in relation to changing policy in the USA

Pro VC Seminar Series

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School of Biomedical Sciences Seminar Series

Collaboration in Research- Forming and Maintaining Collaborative Teams

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The Southern Centre for Inequality Studies Annual Inequality Lecture

Professor Ernest Aryeetey will present the 2025 lecture titled Exploring the changing dynamics of inequality in Africa.

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Africa in the G20: Advancing Solidarity, Equality and Sustainability

This virtual forum is an information session on the key conference themes, the various participation opportunities, and post-conference activities.

The Amplifying African Voices for Strategic Action (AFSA) conference will be held on 25-27 November 2025. The theme, “Africa in the G20: Advancing Solidarity, Equality, and Sustainability,” aligns with the G20 Summit theme set by the host country, South Africa. The overall conference goal is to analyse and elucidate the intricate relations between African nations and external powers, providing alternatives for balanced relationships forged in African interests. This virtual forum is an information session on the key conference themes, the various participation opportunities, and post-conference activities. The session is open to think tanks, civil society, government officials, universities, and businesses from Africa and the rest of the world. 

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Pro VC Seminar Series

Understanding the climate obligations of South Africa in relation to changing policy in the USA

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45th National Convention of the South African Chemical Institute (SACI-45)

The South African Chemical Institute and the University of The Witwatersrand will be hosting 45th SACI National Convention.

45th National Convention of the South African Chemical Institute (SACI-45) is a prestigious and long-standing series of scientific meetings that have been held triennially. SACI-45 will showcase the vibrancy and diversity of chemical sciences in South Africa and beyond.

This unique event is a testament to the innovative and collaborative spirit of the chemical sciences community on the continent. The theme for the conference is “Chemistry: A Window For Change”, and it accentuates the transformative role of chemistry in addressing global challenges and fostering innovation for the change needed for a sustainable future.

The convention will feature plenary addresses, invited, keynote, and contributed presentations, fostering dialogue and collaboration among scientists from various chemistry-related disciplines. 

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Health workforce reforms in Brazil: Innovations, challenges and global lessons

Seminar will highlight transferable lessons and insights for other countries seeking to strengthen their health systems through workforce transformation.

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Great Balls of Fire: Explaining the NQWEBA Bolide and Meteorite Fall of August 2024

The Faculty of Science Marketing Committee invites you to the 5th 2025 science lunchtime lecture.

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2025 Migration and Society Seminar Series

Managing the Transition: Adjusting Migration Policies to Respond to a World Undergoing Demographic Change

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Seventh Satadru Sen Memorial Lecture 2025

The Value of Reparations, or the values of reparation

Anticolonial thinkers such as Gandhi and Fanon saw repair at the level of the self,  for both colonizer and colonised, as necessary to decolonization. This lecture reflects on the British backlash against reparations in terms of the failure of this  collective shift in consciousness. It explores how attachment to colonial-era values has fuelled both neocolonialism and persistent objections to reparations for colonialism and slavery on practical grounds - such as the difficulty of precisely calculating the colonial drain of wealth. Such objections--and the past itself--turn out to be red herrings in discussion of reparation in our time of climate crisis.

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Inaugural Lecture of Professor Vishwas Satgar

The Coloniality of the Planetary Crisis – Possible Emancipatory Politics and Futures

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Wits Parade

It's a Colour Situation. Dress for Chaos.

We're marching through Braam in a wild, joyful explosion of blue, yellow, gold, and whatever else we can throw! This isn't a walk. It's a full-blown colour rebellion. Paint, powder and Witsie pride. If it moves, it gets coloured.

Start planning your outfits, floats, chants, and colour stunts now.

This parade doesn't wait. It booms.

Warning: Uncontrollable colour may occur which may be hazardous to clean laundry

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Inaugural Lecture of Professor Demitri Constantinou

The global impact of sport and exercise medicine: Insights from South Africa and beyond - at the intersection of sports, medicine, and society.

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The Secret Life of Plants’ by Isabel Hofmeyr

The Barnes Road Herbarium, in Brixton, houses the studio where this exhibition was made.

This exhibition explores and presents imperial technologies of illustration, herbarium sheets and eco-printing where realistic renditions are disrupted by the secret chemical lives of leaves - revealing the biochemistry of the leaf not visible to the human eye. We witness the death of a leaf in the birth of the image. 
Isabel Hofmeyr is Professor Emeritus at the University of the Witwatersrand and was Global Distinguished Professor at New York University from 2013 to 2022. She has worked extensively on print culture and book history and has combined these with environmental and oceanic themes. 

Walkabouts with Isabel:

Join Professor Emeritus, Isabel Hofmeyr, for a walkabout of her exhibition and a short archival herbarium pressing demo.

23 August | 10:00

6 September | 10:00
Spaces are limited. RSVP to tammy.hodgskiss@wits.ac.za

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The Meaning of Home

Explore the concept of home through 70+ raku-fired porcelain vessels and clay sculptures by children from the Three2Six project.

Explore the many meanings of home through clay sculptures by children from the Three2Six project, Raku-fired vessels by Nina Shand & Kate Shand, images documenting refugee and migrant children’s experiences (Three2Six and Alliance Francaise), and Windybrow Arts Centre’s reimagined Victorian dollhouse. The exhibition blends art therapy and arts-based approaches to migration, in collaboration with Nereida- Ripero Muñiz, to reflect on belonging, creativity and identity in a situation of displacement. New Additions: ‘Leaving No Child Behind’ – A powerful photo series by Three2Six & Alliance Française, shedding light on the lives of refugee and migrant children; ‘Doll’s Building and City Project’ – A reimagined Victorian doll’s house, transformed into a South African context by Windybrow Art Centre.

Activations of ‘The Meaning of Home’:
Workshop 1: My favourite things at home (Ages 4–8) | Origins Centre. R100 kids, R150 adults. Tickets on webtickets
6 September | 11:00–12:30 https://www.webtickets.co.za/performance.aspx...

Workshop 2: Inside and outside containers (Ages 9–12+) | Origins Centre. R100 kids, R150 adults. Tickets on webtickets
 20 September | 11:00–12:30 https://www.webtickets.co.za/performance.aspx...

Panel Discussion: Art & Social Transformation
6 September| 13:00–14:00 (Lunchtime, venue TBC)

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The Meaning of Home – A Collaborative Exhibition

Explore the concept of home through 70+ raku-fired porcelain vessels and clay sculptures by children from the Three2Six project.

This exhibition blends art therapy, creativity, and collaboration to reflect on belonging, identity, and resilience.
New Additions: 

‘Leaving No Child Behind’ – A powerful photo series by Three2Six & Alliance Française, shedding light on the lives of refugee and migrant children. ‘Doll’s Building and City Project’ – A reimagined Victorian doll’s house, transformed into a South African context by Windybrow Art Centre.

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Godspell Returns – But ONLY for 12 Shows at Wits Theatre

Book now – before it’s gone again!

Fresh from winning Best Student Production at the prestigious Naledi Theatre Awards, the smash-hit Godspell is back – bigger, bolder, and brighter than ever.

For 12 shows only at the Wits Theatre!

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Early mobilization after abdominal and cardiothoracic surgery – evidence and definitions

Public lecture with speaker Monika Fagevik Olsen, Visiting Professor at the department of Neuroscience & Physiology/ Health & Rehabilitation/ Physical Therapy.

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Serge Alain Nitegeka's exhibition Black Subjects

Join the Wits Art Museum for the opening of Serge Alain Nitegeka's exhibition Black Subjects.

The exhibition opening will be on the Tuesday 26 August 2025 at 18:00 for 18:30.

The exhibition will be opened by Professor David Andrew from the University of Witwatersrand Fine Arts department, Johannesburg.

Nitegeka presents his first institutional solo show in Johannesburg. He returns to his alma mater, where as a student, his studio was in a space above the central gallery, now repurposed into offices. For Black Subjects, he stages a monumental sculptural intervention almost directly below this formative location, re-engaging with an institution that has been instrumental in his practice and thinking over two decades. Working across painting, sculpture and video, Nitegeka grounds his practice in a language of abstraction, geometry and colour. The experiential interaction with the work refutes passivity, resulting in a congruence between the body and space.

Parking for the opening event is available in the garage beneath the museum. As Jorissen Street is undergoing an extensive upgrade, there is significant disruption to traffic at present, so please allow for sufficient travel time.

Museum hours: Tuesday – Saturday, 10:00 – 16:00
Entrance is free and all are welcome
Exhibition dates: 26 August – 01 November 2025

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Wits Art Museum: Artist talk with Jonah Sack

Artist talk with Jonah Sack

Join the artist’s talk by Cape Town-based artist Jonah Sack as he introduces his newest artist's book, Dream Book, along with a selection of his previous books and drawings. Jonah will be talking about how he uses text to shape how the reader interacts with his books. He will also discuss secret messages, books made of wood, and the architecture of dreams.

Please be aware that due to ongoing road upgrades, street parking availability is very limited. We encourage the use of e-hailing systems for your convenience.

The talk will take place in the Jack Ginsberg Centre for Book Arts.

Entrance is free. We look forward to seeing you there!

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3rd Annual Conference on Queerness in the Global South

Archives, Aesthetics, and Futurities

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Masterclass 3: Pharmaceutical and Medical Device Regulation

The Series on Healthcare Law and Policy is hosted by the Mandela Institute in partnership with the South African Association for Bioethics and Health Law.

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Policy-Awake, Delivery-Drowsy - South Africa’s Adaptation Agenda After the ICJ Climate Opinion

The Mandela Institute hosts Zunaida Moosa Wadiwala for a talk on the International Court of Justice’s advisory opinion on climate change.

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WiCDS Wednesday Women’s Month panel discussion

‘Generational activisms: Women and social justice in South Africa.

The role of women in South Africa’s struggle against apartheid has been well documented and much praised. In the years since then, female leaders, workers, intellectuals, artists and practitioners have remained essential drivers in the fight for social justice, although their roles and ideas have not always been acknowledged in public consciousness.

In this special Women’s Month edition of WiCDS Wednesday, we are joined by a panel of female activists to reflect on the intersectional complexities, challenges and joys of women’s activism. Featuring Thato Mphuthi, Enabled Enlightenment; Wendy Isaack, MADRE Global Women’s Rights; Laurel Baldwin-Ragaven, Wits; and Bridget Munnik, Mashup Community Development. 

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Regulating Dominance for a Tech-Driven Economy: Reflections on comparative Competition Law

Mandela Institute, SCIS & MIND at Wits and Bowmans invite you to a lecture by renowned scholar Prof. Eleanor M. Fox.

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Making of the World's Highest Bridge: Technical and Social Challenges

This is an ECSA CPD Validated Seminar

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Inaugural Lecture of Professor Laura Pereira

Imagining the Impossible from Africa to the world: Co-producing transformation pathways towards safe and just futures for all

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Amplifying African Voices for Strategic Action (AFSA) Conference 2025

“Communicating African Agency” at AFSA 2025 explores how Africa asserts its voice in the G20, advancing solidarity, equity, and sustainability.

This gathering brings together scholars, policymakers, and practitioners to examine Africa’s evolving role in the G20 and beyond.

The sub-theme “Communicating African Agency” will focus on: How Africa crafts and communicates its own narratives. The role of media, diplomacy, and public engagement in amplifying African voices. Building solidarity, equity, and sustainability through effective communication strategies. By addressing this theme, the conference emphasizes the urgency of not only speaking for Africa but also ensuring Africa speaks for itself in shaping a just and inclusive global order.

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Walkabout of Serge Alain Nitegeka’s exhibition Black Subjects

Walkabout at the Wits Art Museum is a special opportunity to hear directly from the artist.

Serge Alain Nitegeka shares his reflections and unique insights into the exhibition.

Don’t miss this chance to connect and gain a deeper understanding of the ideas shaping his practice.

Museum hours: Tuesday – Saturday, 10:00 – 16:00
Entrance is free and all are welcome
Exhibition dates: 26 August – 01 November 2025

For more information on the show and museum please email Kutlwano.Mokgojwa@wits.ac.za.

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Mental Health: A Human Rights Imperative

The Steve Biko Centre for Bioethics will host the Annual Steve Biko Bioethics Lecture.

Professor Ingrid Daniels is the Chief Executive Officer at Cape Mental Health. She served as the  President of the World Federation for Mental Health for a two year term (2019-2021). 

Daniels is an Honorary Professor at Bochum Protestant University of Applied Sciences in Germany as well as an Honorary Senior Lecturer in the Division of Intellectual Disability, Department of Psychiatry and Mental Health, University of Cape Town, South Africa.

One Ethics CPD point for HPCSA registered professionals.

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Clay workshop: My favourite things at home

Littlies (between the ages of 4-8)and their caregivers are invited to a sensory clay and play session where we will be inspired by “My Favourite Things at Home"

Whether it’s a favourite teddy, a special pillow, a family pet or the best cup in the kitchen, children can shape their own special objects with their own hands. This sensory workshop encourages our young participants to create without hesitation and will focus on the process of playing. These youngsters can explore freely and without limitations as we will not be firing their little objects. Here, clay is for play! Through rolling, squishing, pinching and smoothing clay, our young participants  will explore various textures, develop fine motor skills, and engage in imaginative storytelling. A playful, sensory-rich experience perfect for caregiver/parent and child bonding with unlimited creativity.

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Exhibition walkabout: The Meaning of Home

Join in a walkabout of this exhibition walkabout

Join in a walkabout of this exhibition to explore the concept of home through 70+ raku-fired porcelain vessels and clay sculptures by children from the Three2Six project; with new additions from the Windybrow Art Centre and a photo series shedding light on the lives of refugee and migrant children. This exhibition blends art therapy, creativity, and collaboration to reflect on belonging, identity, and resilience.

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Clay workshop: Inside and Outside Containers

Youngsters (between the ages of 9-12) and their caregivers are invited to this tactile workshop.

Excited and curious about what we would 'pack into our bags if we could take home with us', this hands-on workshop will encourage our young participants to design and construct a small clay container. This is a simple, open box with no lid. The magic lies in the storytelling of this little container: what will you pack inside? Your favourite snacks from home? A map or a compass to guide you home? Could you pack your favourite toy? We will fill our little containers with shapes of what “home” can mean to us. The outside of the box will be decorated with textures and shapes inspired by our external world; using fun textures to press into the clay or making unique patterns. This workshop is about going on an adventure as well as exploration. 

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Alzheimer’s Disease & Dementia: Mental wellness session with Dr Kirti Ranchod

This interactive session will focus on prevention to diagnosis and care of Alzheimer’s disease and Dementia.

This interactive session will focus on prevention to diagnosis and care of Alzheimer’s disease and Dementia. Delving into the questions of What is dementia and What can you do to prevent Alzheimer’s disease pr dementia?

Dr Kirti Ranchod is a neurologist and brain health specialist.

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Staff Sport Tournament

This Sport Tournament will see teams from surrounding universities and corporates battle it out for top positions in netball and football.

Staff are invited to this family-friendly environment filled with energy and friendly rivalry, and is hosted by the Wits Staff Sport Club and Umvuzo medical scheme. 

Participating teams include: Wits University, University of Johannesburg, Department of Education, University of Pretoria, McCain, Pepsico, Coca-Cola and the CFAO. The tournament coincides with the annual Staff Wellness Week taking place from 5 - 12 September 2025. Download your pocket guide to make sure you don't miss out on this year's activities.

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Spring Seed Festival and Open Day

Spring Seed Festival and Open Day

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Staff Wellness Week 2025

September at Wits is associated with activities that encourage wellness, inclusion and having a good time.

Download your pocket guide and make sure you don't miss out on this year's activities. Step out and meet fellow Witsies while also rebooting your health. Wits Parade will once again take the Wits spirit and energy to the streets of Braamfontein followed by the Staff Fun Day and the Wits Library Lawns Sundowner concert with electrifying performances by Young Stunna, DJ Kmat & Scotts Maphuma. View the list of sport teams participating in the Staff Sport Tournament hosted by the Wits Staff Sport Club in partnership with Umvuzo. 

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BREAKING SILOS - Strengthening the capacity of institutional functionaries

University success depends on seamless collaboration between departments. Yet too often, institutional silos prevent the very support systems for researchers.

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Postgraduate Hybrid Open Day

The Wits School of Law invites you to a hybrid open day to learn more about our exciting postgraduate offerings in Law.

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Digital Information Sharing Session: Communicating African Agency

Africa shapes its narrative in the G20—join our info session on “Communicating African Agency” within the AFSA 2025 theme.

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Free Family Make-and-Create at WAM