The University of Cape Town Vice-Chancellor, Professor Mamokgethi Phakeng, greets the UCT community at the start of the first term, welcoming first-year students and welcoming back staff and returning students after the year-end vacation.

Professor Phakeng emphasises the importance of valuing and celebrating UCT’s diversity and of making every community member feel at home on campus. She urges UCT staff and students to demonstrate both kindness and courage in the year ahead.