THE UNIVERSITY OF THE WITWATERSRAND, JOHANNESBURG 01

The history of the University is inextricably linked with mining, academic excellence, quality research and political, social and civic activism - associations built on strong foundations which still hold today. The origins of Wits lie in the South African School of Mines, which was established in Kimberley in 1896 and transferred to Johannesburg. Full university status was granted in 1922, incorporating the College as the University of the Witwatersrand.

Wits proudly celebrated its centenary in 2022.

WITS IS:

• Internationally recognised for its academic and research excellence

• A first choice for postgradate studies, offering internationally accredited programmes

• An active social leader that takes a stand on social issues affecting communities, the country and globe

• An engaged university committed to local transformation and the advancement of the public good

• The intellectual hub of the continent, with over 40 major projects running throughout Africa

Today, Wits is an urban university located in the ‘City of Gold’, Johannesburg. Its vast campuses are spread over 440 hectares in Braamfontein and Parktown. Wits has 18 residences, which accommodate about one fifth of the student population. A world-class residence, which caters largely for postgraduate and postdoctoral students, the Wits Junction, was opened in 2012.

• A leader in the Evolutionary Sciences and is a curator of priceless faunal, floral and hominid collections including the Taung Child (Australopithecus africanus), Mrs Ples, Little foot, Austalopithecus Sediba and the Homo Naledi fossils

• Proud of the four Nobel Laureates and the more than 91 Rhodes Scholars that have emanated from the University

• Located in the economic hub of Africa

• Proud of the wide diversity of our student body