News Talk Today: University opening & Exciting Community Updates!

We bring you the latest updates from Potchefstroom, filled with school highlights, local news, and upcoming events. Stay informed and connected with everything happening in our vibrant community!

News Updates

JD Joubert Biokinetics Hosts High-Energy Fitness Day at Kleinplaas The JD Joubert Biokinetics Fitness Day brought together athletes and fitness enthusiasts for a high-energy competition. The rowing and assault bike challenge tested endurance and teamwork, with participants giving their all in an electric atmosphere. Beyond competition, the event celebrated fitness, community, and determination.

North-West University Opens 2025 Academic Year with a Vision for the Future NWU officially kicked off its academic year with a focus on transformation and global relevance. Vice-Chancellor Bismark Tyobeka emphasized the university’s commitment to fostering innovation, student empowerment, and excellence.

Municipality Releases Annual Report & Budget Plan for 2024-2025 JB Marks Local Municipality has released its latest annual report and budget, outlining plans for infrastructure improvements and addressing financial challenges. The report highlights strategic initiatives aimed at enhancing service delivery.

School News: Weekly Highlights

Jack Pauw Credo Function – A Tradition of Brotherhood: The Jack Pauw Hostel held its annual Credo Function, where matric students mentored Grade 8 newcomers. Each senior wrote a heartfelt letter of encouragement to their junior, emphasizing values, leadership, and unity. This symbolic tradition reinforces the spirit of brotherhood and responsibility.

Interschool Athletics 2025 – A Parade of Possibilities! The Dr. Kenneth Kaunda district’s special schools recently held their interschool athletics event, showcasing passion, determination, and sportsmanship. Records were broken, friendships were formed, and students celebrated their hard work. A huge thank you to Janie Schneider School and everyone who contributed to making the day special!

Saints Christian School Bootcamp with Coach Dikay: Saints Christian School kicked off the year with an energetic fitness bootcamp led by Coach Dikay. The event promoted teamwork, motivation, and a strong sense of community while emphasizing the importance of a healthy lifestyle.

Interhoër is Around the Corner – Let the Games Begin! The biggest school athletics competition of the year, Interhigh 2025, is approaching fast! Expect intense competition, record-breaking performances, and an explosion of school spirit. Which school will take home the trophy? One thing is certain – this event is not to be missed!

Upcoming Events in Potchefstroom (February 15 – 21, 2025):

Potch Bulldogs MCC Braai

Date: February 15, 2025
Location: 62 Eleazer St, Potchefstroom
Details: Join the Potch Bulldogs Motorcycle Club for a day of camaraderie and delicious braai. Contact Marie at 082-677-7428 or Pres Jannie at 082-560-3324 for more information.

Romy's Habby Crafters Club Workshop

Date: February 15, 2025
Location: 44 Buskus St, Baillie Park, Potchefstroom
Cost: R200 per person
Details: Enhance your crafting skills by learning how to create tassels to embellish various items. Call 082-666-0096 or email romyshabby@gmail.com to book your spot.

Organ Recital by Dutch Organist Minne Veldman

Date: February 19, 2025
Location: NG Kerk Vyfhoek, 40 Tinktinkie St, Baillie Park, Potchefstroom
Cost: Adults: R130; Pensioners and Students: R80
Details: Renowned Dutch concert organist Minne Veldman will perform a captivating program featuring works by Telemann, Bach, Handel, and Mendelssohn. Tickets available at Quicket.

Valentine's Fliekniek – A Night Under the Stars

Date: February 14, 2025
Location: Kukua Coffee, 5 Gerrit Dekker, Bult, Potchefstroom
Gates Open: 18:00 | Movie Starts: 19:00
Cost: R80 per person; R50 for kids
Details: Enjoy a romantic outdoor movie night. Tickets include a complimentary tall drink and a babychino for kids. Available on Quicket or at the gate.

My Wool Affair – Valentine's Day Edition

Date: February 14, 2025
Location: 61 Retief St, Potchefstroom
Cost: R70 per person
Details: A special Valentine’s Day crochet workshop, including wine and snacks. Booking is essential – call 082-788-7574 to reserve your spot.

Stroomstories Live Streaming for the Week

Tuesday – Sportchefstroom Episode 3: Joël Scherman Hosted by Dirkus, this episode features Joël Scherman, head coach of Sibanye-Stillwater Rugby Club. The Rustenburg-based club has recently secured a spot in the prestigious Castle Super League, a major achievement in South African rugby.
Wednesday – Spiritual Talk Episode 19: The Power of Influence in Faith Pieter sits down with Bennie Jonker for an insightful discussion on how the people around us shape our faith and decisions. This deep dive into spiritual growth highlights the impact of mentorship and community on personal belief systems.

Wednesday – Potchefstroom Profiles Episode 1 Hosted by Cindy, this episode introduces five-year-old athlete Conrad de Kock and his mother Zoli. Together, they took on the Midmar Mile, making Conrad one of the youngest participants in the event. The episode explores his love for sports and the vital role of family support in his journey.

Thursday – Christo Venter: The Fusion of Science and Music In this exclusive interview, Pieter from The Go-To Guy speaks with astrophysicist and musician Christo Venter about his incredible journey. Discover how he balances the worlds of music and science in this fascinating conversation.

Thursday – Sportchefstroom Episode 4: The Legacy of the Riaan Venter Tennis Academy Hosted by Dirkus, this episode highlights the work of Riaan Venter, founder of the Riaan Venter Tennis Academy. Since its establishment in 1994, the academy has become a top-tier training facility for young tennis talents, operating at NWU’s Fanie du Toit Sports Grounds.