The University of Pretoria has opened its doors to almost 10,000 first-year students. The welcome event took place on Saturday at the Hillcrest campus. Thousands of excited students arrived with their families. They came to start their journey in higher education. This marks the beginning of the 2026 academic year.
Big Numbers and Popular Courses
The university admitted at least 9,700 undergraduate students this year. Education and medical programs received the highest demand. A total of 670 students joined the bachelor of education for senior phase teaching. Another 220 students enrolled in intermediate phase teaching. The medical program accepted 240 students into medicine and surgery.
These numbers show that many young people want to become teachers and doctors. South Africa needs more professionals in these fields. The university is helping to train the next generation.
A New Way of Learning
Vice-chancellor Prof Francis Petersen spoke to the new students. He praised their hard work in matric. He congratulated them for their strong exam results.
The university uses a hybrid teaching model. This means students learn both online and in classrooms. The system makes learning more easy and flexible. Prof Petersen said this method is working well. In 2024, the overall module pass rate reached 90%. The year before, it was 88%. This shows students are doing better with the new system.
Meet the Top Performers
Many brilliant students joined the university this year. Jenhara Rooplall earned 11 distinctions with a 97% aggregate. She will study medicine.
Matthew de Jager scored 99% in mathematics. Numbers come easy to him. He is pursuing applied mathematics.
Johann Opperman ranked in the top three nationally in alpha mathematics. He will study actuarial science.
Sesona Masingili comes from the Eastern Cape. She scored 100% in accounting. Her goal is simple: become a chartered accountant.
Students Who Excel Beyond Books
Some students shine in other areas too. Sofia French is a national swimmer with seven distinctions. She will study mechanical engineering.
Andru van Zyl cycled from Polokwane to Cape Town to raise money for children with cancer. Now he begins his medical studies. He wants to help sick people in the future.
A Message to New Students
Khutso Manyaka is the student representative council president. He spoke directly to the new arrivals. His message was both encouraging and honest.
He told students that university life is not always simple or easy. He said: “The university will test you academically, financially and emotionally. There will be days when the weight of assignments feels crushing.”
But he also gave them hope. He told them to be gentle with themselves during tough times. He encouraged them to learn hard and play responsibly. Most importantly, he urged them to connect deeply with others.
Building friendships is important. Students should support each other. Having good friends makes the journey easier.
What This Means for South Africa
The arrival of nearly 10,000 new students is good news for the country. South Africa needs educated young people. These students will become doctors, teachers, engineers, and accountants.
The University of Pretoria is investing in their future. The hybrid teaching model helps students learn better. Higher pass rates mean more graduates. More graduates mean a stronger workforce.
Looking Ahead
The 2026 academic year has officially begun. These 9,700 students now face an exciting journey. The process is simple: work hard, stay focused, and never give up.
Some will find it easy. Others will struggle at times. But all of them have earned their place at this university. With hard work and support, these students can succeed. The University of Pretoria believes in them. South Africa is watching and hoping they succeed.
