The University of Cape Town (UCT) has garnered an impressive accolade in the 21st edition of the GenNext awards – being crowned the coolest university in South Africa.
This prestigious acknowledgement is rooted in a retrospective review spanning the past decade, solidifying UCT’s reputation as a leading institution in education, innovation and campus culture, while also capturing the spirit of the nation’s youth.
Regarded as the foremost measure of trends among young South Africans, the annual Sunday Times GenNext survey evaluates what resonates with individuals aged eight to 30 across various brand categories.
The retrospective nature of this year’s survey, which surveyed data from 2015 to 2024, offered a unique glimpse into a decade of evolving youth sentiment.
Vice-Chancellor Professor Mosa Moshabela expressed his elation regarding the award, stating: ‘How cool is that… being named the coolest university by South Africa’s youth. Now that is something to clock. It’s a reflection of UCT’s commitment not only to academic excellence but also the continued effort to foster an environment where creativity, community, and engagement with societal issues are celebrated.’
He added, ‘I am proud to know that we are a university that inspires and resonates with the next generation. We must lean into this resonance and allow young people to shape their experience of UCT.’
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Moshabela noted that the prestigious recognition not only celebrates UCT’s academic achievements but also underscores the collective efforts of staff, students, and alumni.
Moshabela emphasised that UCT combines an academic rigour with creativity, inclusivity and a forward-looking spirit, ensuring it remains relevant and inspiring to the youth of South Africa.
The attributes contributing to this esteemed title extend beyond academia. Students frequently highlight UCT’s vibrant campus life, innovative teaching methodologies, robust student communities and rich cultural and social activities.
Adding to UCT’s impressive accolades, the institution recently achieved its highest global ranking in a decade in the Quacquarelli Symonds (QS) World University Rankings, placing 150th worldwide for 2026.
This ranking illustrates UCT’s consistent excellence in research, teaching and global engagement, showcasing the university’s remarkable ability to marry world-class scholarship with a campus experience that resonates with young people both locally and internationally.
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