In a heartwarming display of community spirit and collaboration, local business stakeholders gathered in impressive numbers for a morning engagement focused on fortifying the bond between North-West University (NWU) and the Potchefstroom business community. This breakfast event was more than just a networking opportunity; it was a celebration of the progress made by NWU, a discussion of ongoing initiatives, and a reaffirmation of the critical partnerships driving economic growth and improving lives in the community.
Exciting opportunities on the horizon
Reflecting on the strides made by NWU, several strategic projects stand out, promising to shape the university's future and its impact on the region. These include the establishment of a Medical School, a School of Mines and Mining Engineering, the soon-to-launch NWU Enterprises, and a veterinary sciences strategic project. These initiatives are paving the way for academic excellence and community impact, underscoring NWU’s commitment to serving the Greater Potchefstroom area.
Three core pillars of the NWU
NWU operates on three core pillars: research, teaching and learning, and community engagement. The university's commitment to community engagement is evident through its annual community stakeholder forums. These open dialogues with diverse partners, including those in the business sector, are essential for fostering partnerships that drive mutual growth and development. The most recent forum, held in July 2023, was a testament to this commitment, and NWU looks forward to the next series of forums in mid-September 2024.
NWU's impact is also deeply embedded in its contributions to the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
Enhancing its academic profile
By aligning postgraduate research activities with SDG keywords, NWU enhances its academic profile and demonstrates a commitment to addressing global challenges through local action. The reach of its projects spans all campuses, with 287 projects in Potchefstroom, 124 in Mahikeng, and 47 in Vanderbijlpark.
In terms of district representation within the North West Province, the university's efforts are distributed as follows:
Dr Kenneth Kaunda: 48%
Ngaka Modiri Molema: 28%
Dr Ruth Segomotsi Mompati: 17%
Bojanala Platinum: 7%
Addressing Student Accommodation Challenges
A significant challenge facing South African higher education is the funding model processed through the National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS). Despite being exempt from the pilot phase of the NSFAS accreditation process for 2024, NWU remains dedicated to providing quality student accommodation. The Accreditation Office meticulously manages the accreditation of private accommodation service providers, ensuring compliance with the Department of Higher Education and Training (DHET) norms and NSFAS requirements.
Supporting Local Economic Development
NWU's procurement strategy emphasizes the inclusion of local Small, Medium, and Micro Enterprises (SMMEs). Approved by the Council in November 2022, this strategy integrates local businesses into NWU's procurement processes, demonstrating a commitment to local economic development. To date, NWU has appointed over 50 local SMMEs as subcontractors, contributing to over 300 job creations in areas such as landscaping, cleaning, security, and construction.
Training as cornerstone
Training is a cornerstone of NWU's procurement strategy. In 2024, over 300 SMMEs received training across essential areas such as supplier database management and Construction Industry Development Board (CIDB) compliance. The university plans to develop a six-month programme, the Supplier Development Strategies for Success Course, aimed at equipping local suppliers with the skills needed to manage their businesses successfully.
Strategic Projects and International Partnerships
Several strategic projects are set to shape NWU's future:
Medical School: Scheduled to welcome its first intake of students in 2028, this school will enhance NWU’s academic offerings and address critical healthcare needs.
School of Mines and Mining Engineering: This project aims to position NWU as a leader in mining education and research, fostering innovation and job opportunities.
NWU Enterprises: This initiative will diversify NWU's income streams and create new collaboration opportunities with the business community.
Veterinary Sciences: In collaboration with the Faculty of Natural and Agricultural Sciences and the Department of Agriculture, Land Reform and Rural Development, this project aims to support local farmers and improve animal healthcare and welfare.
International Partnerships: NWU continues to forge strategic partnerships with renowned institutions worldwide, enhancing its global footprint and opening new avenues for research and innovation.
The Ikateleng Project
One of NWU's most impactful community initiatives is the Ikateleng Project, a supplementary teaching programme launched in 1988 at the NWU Vanderbijlpark campus. This project aims to improve the academic outcomes of high school students, particularly in preparing them for tertiary education. The success of the Ikateleng Project is evident in the increasing number of students registering with NWU and obtaining degrees.
Gratitude and Future Collaboration
On behalf of North-West University, NWU extends sincere gratitude to the business community of Greater Potchefstroom for their continued support. Each year, thousands of learners, prospective students, current students, parents, and alumni visit the institution. The warm hospitality ensures they return year after year. As NWU continues to grow and expand its efforts, it invites the community to join hands in building a better South Africa. Together, they can significantly enhance the local economy and improve the quality of life for community members through job creation, skills development, local economic growth, innovation, entrepreneurship, and social upliftment.
NWU values its partnership with local business leaders and community members and looks forward to continued collaboration that drives mutual success.