Important info

Welcome Pack


18 - 22 August 2025

Course Location: Johannesburg, South Africa
Hotel: Southern Sun Rosebank


1. Arrival in South Africa - OR Tambo International Airport (JNB)

Upon Arrival

  • Proceed through Immigration and Customs.
  • Ensure your passport is stamped and you retain your arrival card.
  • Collect your luggage from the designated baggage carousel.
  • Do not engage with unofficial porters or taxi operators. Use designated counters and official staff only.


2. Getting to Southern Sun Rosebank

Option A: Gautrain (Recommended)

  • From the Arrivals Terminal, follow signs to the Gautrain station (about a 5-10 minute walk via a covered walkway).
  • Purchase a Gautrain card and load value for a trip to Rosebank Station.
  • Board the Gautrain to Sandton, then transfer to the line toward Rosebank.
  • Trains operate from 5:30 AM to 8:30 PM.

At Rosebank Station:

  • Exit the station and proceed to the designated hotel shuttle collection point.
  • The Southern Sun Rosebank shuttle runs every 30 minutes. Alternatively, the hotel is a 5-minute Uber ride from the station.

Option B: Uber/Bolt

  • Download Uber or Bolt apps before arrival (both work well in South Africa).
  • Proceed to the Rideshare Pick-up Zone at OR Tambo (clearly signposted near the Parkade).
  • A ride from the airport to Southern Sun Rosebank takes 30-40 minutes.

Option C: Shuttle Services


3. Your Stay - Southern Sun Rosebank

Address: 13 Tyrwhitt Avenue, Rosebank, Johannesburg, 2196
Phone: +27 11 448 3600
Website: https://www.southernsun.com/southern-sun-rosebank

Hotel Check-in time: 14h00

Hotel Check out time: 11:00

Hotel Highlights:

  • Modern, 4-star accommodation in the heart of the vibrant Rosebank district.
  • Free high-speed Wi-Fi, fitness centre, restaurant, lounge, and business facilities.
  • Complimentary shuttle service within a 5 km radius.
  • Walking distance to the Rosebank Mall and The Zone @ Rosebank.


4. Essential Services Nearby

Shopping & Groceries:

  • Rosebank Mall and The Zone offer clothing stores, bookstores, grocery shops (Woolworths, Pick n Pay), and more.

Banking & Currency Exchange:

  • ATMs: Absa, Standard Bank, Nedbank, and FNB - located inside Rosebank Mall.
  • Currency Exchange: Travelex (inside the mall) or Bidvest Bank Foreign Exchange.

Medical:

  • Clicks Pharmacy and Dis-Chem - both in Rosebank Mall.
  • For urgent care, Netcare Rosebank Hospital is nearby (011 328 0500).

Restaurants:

  • A variety of restaurants are available within walking distance - from local cuisine to international options.


5. Safety Tips

Johannesburg is a modern city with vibrant culture, but like any major urban area, safety precautions are important:

  • Avoid walking alone at night or in unfamiliar areas.
  • Do not display valuables (phones, jewellery, cash) in public.
  • Use registered taxis, hotel shuttles, or reliable ride-hailing apps (Uber/Bolt).
  • Keep your hotel room locked and store valuables in the in-room safe.
  • Always inform someone of your whereabouts if going out.
  • Be cautious when withdrawing cash - use ATMs inside malls or banks.
  • In case of emergency, dial 10111 (police) or 112 (any cell phone network emergency).


6. General Tips

  • Time Zone: South African Standard Time (GMT+2)
  • Power Supply: 230V, Type M plug (adaptors available at most stores or hotel concierge)
  • Language: English widely spoken
  • Tipping: 10%-15% is customary at restaurants and for services


7. Contact for Assistance

If you require help during your stay, contact:
Course Coordinator: nokhanyo.yolwa@wits.ac.za / asande.mahlaba@wits.ac.za
Hotel Front Desk: +27 11 448 3600
Emergency Medical (Netcare Rosebank): +27 11 328 0500

8. Visa Requirements

If you require a visa to enter South Africa, please initiate the process well in advance to avoid any delays in your travel arrangements.

Steps to Follow:

  1. Check visa requirements for your country on the South African Department of Home Affairs website or consult the South African embassy in your country.
  2. Send the following details to our course administrator as soon as possible:
    • Full name (as on passport)
    • Passport number
    • Nationality
    • Country of residence
    • Dates of intended travel
    • A copy of your passport

Submit this information to:
Sibongile Horo
Email: sibongile.horo@wits.ac.za

Once received, we will prepare and issue a formal invitation letter to support your visa application.

Important Notes:

  • Apply for a visitor's visa for business purposes, not a tourist visa.
  • Ensure your passport is valid for at least 30 days beyond your departure date, with at least two blank pages.
  • You may be asked to show proof of accommodation and return flight during your visa application or on arrival.


9. Welcome Dinner

To warmly welcome you to South Africa and allow you to meet fellow delegates, you are invited to attend the welcome dinner:

  • Welcome Dinner
  • Date: Sunday, 17th August
  • Time: From 18:00
  • Venue: Southern Sun Rosebank - Dalasi Function Room
  • Enjoy an evening of South African hospitality, delicious cuisine, and networking in a relaxed setting. Kindly ensure you arrive in Johannesburg by Sunday afternoon to attend.
  • Dress Code: Smart casual
  • RSVP: No need to RSVP if you are staying at the hotel - all course delegates are expected to attend.