THE UNIVERSITY OF WITWATERSRAND
As The University of Witwatersrand ( Wits ) continues with its path to digitalisation , its CIO Dr . Stanley Mpofu discusses the obstacles he ’ s had to navigate to take them there
As with many universities across the globe , The University of the Witwatersrand ( Wits ) in Braamfontein , Johannesburg has had to adapt to navigate challenges brought about by the coronavirus pandemic while simultaneously looking to push forward with its digital transformation . Established in 1922 , the university will soon be celebrating its 100th birthday and is taking the lead in reimagining trendy Braamfontein to further its contribution in delivering high-level scarce skills for the global knowledge economy .
Tasked with creating and driving the University ’ s digital journey is its Chief Information Officer , Dr Stanley Mpofu .
Mpofu ’ s knowledge of the University comes from his experiences both as staff but also as a student , now alumni . Speaking of the University , Mpofu shared some of the institution ’ s values : “ We have five different faculties with support areas , with academics , with support people , and with students . So in such a situation , collegiality becomes very critical , but also it is a university that is quite visionary in terms of how it wants to project itself for the future .”
In his role , Mpofu looks to take the University on its digital journey and support both staff and students as they transition into the new digital world . Supported by his colleagues , Mpofu explained the vicechancellor , Zeblon Vilakazi , has views that align with his own : “ It makes me very comfortable in a university where the vice-
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