The 2025 academic year solidified the CBE as a premier institution in the Global South, achieving the Times Higher Education World University Rankings (THE WUR) top ranking in South Africa and Africa for Business and Economics. This success was underpinned by a robust research engine that generated 732 output units and secured R25.81 million in external funding, demonstrating a strategic focus on digital transformation and sustainable development goals. The College’s human capital remains its greatest asset, featuring a diverse staff profile where 64% belong to designated groups and 59% are female, supported by a growing bench of 185 doctoral staff and 51 NRF-rated researchers. Furthermore, the CBE successfully managed a student body of over 19 000, maintaining an impressive 89,8% undergraduate module success rate and producing nearly 5 800 graduates equipped with high-demand skills for the modern economy. Looking ahead, the CBE is committed to a forward-looking strategy that navigates the rapid technological evolution of the Fourth Industrial Revolution through continuous self-reinvention. The future direction involves scaling student-centric learning ecosystems and expanding specialised knowledge hubs, such as the newly established Wiseman Nkuhlu Centre for Innovation, Thought Leadership, and Governance, to provide trusted advice to Africa’s leading institutions. By deepening its 14 active international partnerships and leveraging a Professor of Practice model to bridge the gap between theory and industry, the College aims to transition from international visibility to accelerating global momentum. This roadmap is firmly anchored in UJ’s Strategic Plan 2035, focusing on societal impact and global footprints to ensure the CBE remains an architect of change that prepares a diverse student body for professional agility and ethical leadership in an increasingly complex world. Professors Forums The way forward Staff Day Postdoctoral Research Fellows Forums Women’s Day Celebration 86 87 College of Business and Economics | Annual Report 2025 College of Business and Economics | Annual Report 2025
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