media releases - UNODC signs agreement with UNISA

In terms of the agreement the UNODC and Unisa will collaborate in training, sharing of regional and national data and the service of experts from Unisa to combat organised crime, trafficking of persons, corruption, terrorism and money laundering.

The Under Secretary-General of the United Nations, Mr Antonio Maria Costa, who is also Director-General of the UN office in Vienna and Executive Director of the UN Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC), and Unisa’s Principal and Vice-Chancellor Prof Barney Pityana will sign the agreement at 13:00 on 4 March in the VIP Room 13th level, OR Tambo Building, Unisa main campus.

Mr Costa will also be delivering a lecture on "Convention against corruption: Addressing a major impediment to sustainable development" on 5 March at 14:00 in the Senate Hall, 2nd level, Theo van Wijk Building, main campus.

Referring to the agreement, Prof Mandla Makhanya, Unisa’s Pro Vice-Chancellor, said: “This is an important step in the war against crime in South Africa and surrounding regions. The collaboration between Unisa and the UNODC will go a long way to assist in eradicating organized crime and related criminal activities that are currently threatening our society and impeding sustainable development.

“This is a huge opportunity and challenge for Unisa and we are honoured by the faith the UNODC is showing in us. Unisa is well equipped to meet what is required by this agreement. It is important not only for Unisa but the country as a whole, that we do succeed.”

For further information on Mr Costa’s visit, the local regional representative of the UNODC Dr Jonathan Lucas can be contacted on tel. no. (012) 342-2424 or cell. no. (082) 414 7102.