28 FADA ANNUAL REPORT 2023 Environmental Sustainability The awareness of, and active participation in, issues of social responsibility and environmental sustainability is central to FADA’s ethos. This influences not only our teaching and public image, but also how we conduct our daily operations. The Faculty holds paperless meetings whenever possible and has recycling stations for paper, glass, and tin strategically placed throughout the building. Staff is reminded on a regular basis to reduce electricity consumption by turning off lights and using space heaters as little as possible. FADA also places a significant emphasis on addressing the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), integrating this commitment into both teaching and learning initiatives and our community engagement programmes. Demonstrating a dedication to social responsibility, the Department of Interior Design collaborated with South Point in Braamfontein in a community upliftment project where students redesigned three established retail spaces aligning them with new regeneration strategies. The transformed spaces attract and engage with current and new consumers. It also addresses gentrification concerns by ensuring inclusivity and promoting community development. Resource Management FADA prioritises resource enhancement and preservation for optimal student learning and faculty research. Facilities like studios, workshops, and computer labs are carefully maintained to support academic programs. The FADA FabLab introduces undergraduates to digital design thinking and aids postgraduates in refining digital design methods. Equipped with modern technology, the FabLab fosters a dynamic learning environment for innovation, highimpact research, and transdisciplinary collaboration among faculty. The UJ Art Collection, valued at approximately R105,546,108, is meticulously managed, ensuring upkeep, regular documentation, research, and inventory assessments. Challenges such as inadequate storage facilities and ongoing leaks in the gallery roof pose risks, requiring urgent attention to prevent irreversible damage, especially to older pieces. Arts and Culture manages various UJ campus facilities, including the UJ Arts Centre, UJ Art Gallery, Experimental Theatre, and Bunting Theatre. Efforts to refurbish the Bunting Road facility aim to accommodate research, academic, and arts and culture activities, utilized in 2023 by the Arts Therapy Programme and visiting artists. Renovation plans focus on optimizing functionality and supporting diverse creative endeavours. The Faculty Higher Degrees Committee (FHDC) monitors postgraduate studies, approving proposals and examiners. The Faculty Research Committee (FRC) focuses on research matters, including funding applications and research outputs. All academic staff are part of the Faculty Board, meeting quarterly for discussions on UJ-related matters. Student and academic data are well-managed by Academic Administration under the headship of Neeradevi Chinnah. Other operational committees, including Library, Health and Safety, and Marketing, meet quarterly, with ad hoc meetings when necessary. Committee minutes are presented at Faculty Board meetings for approval and discussion.
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