At the end of 2021 we look back at another year in which we navigated the challenges brought about by the Covid-19 pandemic. But with our experience gained in 2020, we were able to embark on new pathways towards internationalisation in a post-pandemic context.
As with many institutions across the globe, we learned numerous lessons over the past 18 months and implemented several innovative ways of continuing what has worked, while pioneering new ways of doing, especially with regard to the development of our partnerships globally.
Over the past year, SU has achieved much to continue engaging globally in higher education, guided by our Internationalisation Strategy. For students, we have moved towards a hybrid model because we believe that acquiring global skills is pertinent for our graduates. We are proud of the many teaching and learning opportunities we could unlock. This has also had an influence on furthering our vision to be the leading research-intensive university in Africa.
We have seen growth in our international partnerships, and our comprehensive Partnerships Framework has been supported this well. This framework focuses on bilateral partnerships with higher education institutions and related international education organisations. We continue to engage with our partners through virtual meetings and have an effect on the networks to which we belong. The eagerness to interact and collaborate globally certainly made it easier and more commonplace for institutions to formalise interactions.
Also, we have been able to ensure that our staff members continue to benefit from the advantages of global exposure to higher education.
In 2021, our focus on the rest of Africa ensured progress in increasing our continental footprint and, because of this, SU remains a coveted partner globally due to its geographical location in Africa.
Moving towards 2022, we look forward to continuing and enhancing our global engagements, and will keep all our valued partners informed of new developments planned for next year.
- Prof Hester C. Klopper, Deputy Vice-Chancellor: Strategy, Global and Corporate Affairs
To find out more about SU International activities, visit our website: www.sun.ac.za/international.
