Feedback from Research Commons Workshop (4 & 5 November)

With the strong focus of the University on research and postgraduates, establishing Research Commons in the library has become a necessity. The role out of Research Commons in all UJ libraries is supported by the university. It is in this spirit that the workshop was organised.

Prof Marwala mentioned that the university wants to increase research output by:
- Hosting international conferences
- Introduce research institutes
- Super post-doc fellows
- Increase the number of full time doctoral students

Prof Motala said that the many postgraduates enrol,but that the through-put is slow (this is a national tendency). They want to enhance the postgraduate experience. Researchers mentioned that they to to have a designated space where they can go to - therefore the support for the research commons.

Prof de Jager and Dr Darch (both from UCT) mentioned that before starting the commons, it is important to get input from research on what they want. A research portal can be used for off-site assistance to researchers. Intellectual magazines, newspapers, reference works and books on research methodology should also be placed in this space.

Lucia Schoombee from Stellenbosch University mentioned that the role of the Research Librarian differs from the Faculty Librarian, as the Research Librarian must be able to assist with the research process. The Research Librarian must also be able to assist with support in technology. A high tech environment with up-market furnishing is of the utmost importance.

The speakers offered the following advice:
- Establish a research commons that will address the needs of the research community
- Measure development and impact by giving concrete statistics
- Communicate with researchers
- Involve all possible stakeholders
- Make use of opportunities and make the most of these opportunities.

Meeting with VC on 29 October 2013

On 29 October I attended a meeting with the VC for all senior managers. From this meeting I would like to share the following with you.

The meeting started with the VC thanking staff for their hard work and dedication this year. He stated that the balance between work and family life is important and that staff should guard against neglecting family life.

The strategic vision for 2025 is: in pursuit of global excellence and stature. In line with this, the brand will change from current and hip to excellence and stature. By 2025 UJ wants to consistently rank in the top 400 universities.

Prof Rensburg mentioned that the following programmes did well:
- First year experience
- Success rates regarding graduate through put
- The flagship programmes
- We are acknowledged for model education
 - NRF chairs and centres of excellence
- Growing number of post doctoral fellows
- Growing publications footprint

Flagship programs include:
- Accountancy (CA)
- Transport and Logistics
- Information Technology
- Geology
- Philosophy
- Politics and International studies
- Mining and electrical engineering
- Radiography
- Optom
- Childhood education

In Reach and Innovation the focus will be on postgraduate studies and the impact of research. Their will also be a strong focus on innovation.

In the Teaching and Learning environment they want to increase the number of postgraduate students, as well as enrolments in science and technology. Academic staff will also be assisted in becoming excellent teachers. It was also mentioned that the staff qualifications program has been very successful.

UJ would like to establish the following research institutes:
- Earth Sciences
- Nano technology and water
- Process automation
- Pan-African thought
- Sustainability

In summary: there will be a strong focus on research and research output, as well as postgraduate studies.