IN CONVERSATION WITH MELUSI KHUMALO [HEAD OF JMJ CHAPTER AT UJ]

What this episode covers

What if the road connecting two of Johannesburg’s biggest universities became more than just a route between campuses? What if it became a destination That’s the vision behind a community-driven initiative led by Jozi My Jozi, together with the University of Johannesburg, Wits University, local businesses, and community partners, to transform Annet Road into what organisers are calling the “Vilakazi Street of Academics.” The project aims to create a cleaner, safer, and more welcoming environment for the thousands of students, academics, workers, and residents who move through the corridor between UJ and Wits every day. Beyond litter removal, the initiative speaks to a bigger conversation about urban renewal, student safety, community ownership, and civic pride. Many students have raised concerns about crime, neglected public spaces, poor maintenance, and a deteriorating environment around some of Johannesburg’s major education hubs. Supporters believe reclaiming and improving public spaces can help restore a sense of dignity, safety, and belonging while encouraging greater collaboration between universities and surrounding communities. The clean-up forms part of a growing movement of residents, businesses, and institutions choosing to become active participants in improving Johannesburg rather than waiting for change to happen.

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