Alumni Relations at the North-West University (NWU), together with the Faculty of Economic and Management Sciences, recently hosted an Alumni and Friends gathering at the NWU’s Vanderbijlpark Campus.

The event brought together leading academics, analysts, business leaders and media personalities for a robust dialogue on governance, economics, leadership and social development.

The occasion created a platform for meaningful engagement beyond academia, reflecting the commitment of the university to producing conversations that address real-world challenges facing South Africa and the wider African continent.

Clement Manoko, executive director for corporate relations and marketing, was the programme director and guided proceedings, while the official welcome address was delivered by Prof. Jeffrey Mphahlele, deputy vice-chancellor for research and innovation, community engagement and postgraduate studies with the assigned function of the Vanderbijlpark Campus. He expressed gratitude to alumni and partners for their continued support.

“We depend on you as alumni to prepare our graduates for the world of work so they can interact with people already in the various industries. You also assist students with business opportunities. You are inspirational to our students. When they see you, they have hope that one day they will be like you,” he said.

The panel discussion was facilitated by TV personality Lisao Setho, known for her work on the SABC’s OnPoint, and featured leading voices from economics, business and academia.

Among the keynote contributors was Tsietsi Mokhele, founder and president of the Africa Oceans Council and executive chairman of ELEKHOM Global. He raised concerns about the industrial capacity of South Africa, logistics inefficiencies and manufacturing challenges.

Economic insights were provided by Prof. Jacques de Jongh and Prof. Waldo Krugell from the School of Economic Sciences.

Prof. de Jongh stressed the importance of functional infrastructure for global competitiveness, while Prof. Krugell discussed the growing benefits of remote and hybrid work models for both employers and employees.

From a business perspective, Hester Davis, CEO of the Impact Group of Companies, called for stronger support for small businesses.

The programme concluded with a vote of thanks delivered by campus chief director Andiswa Msi, who emphasised the importance of producing ethical, adaptable graduates and thanked alumni for their continued support in strengthening the global reputation of the university.

Event organiser Zanele Ngobese described the gathering as a success, highlighting the depth of engagement and impact of the discussions.

“The level of engagement from all speakers and attendees showed the importance of creating spaces where academia, business and society can meet. It proved that when we bring the right voices together, we can begin to shape meaningful solutions for the challenges we face,” she said.

She added that, beyond networking, the event reinforced the commitment of NWU alumni to bridging academia, business and society through meaningful dialogue at a time when South Africa continues to face economic and structural challenges.

Prof. Jeffrey Mphahlele, deputy vice-chancellor for research and innovation, community engagement and postgraduate studies with the assigned function of the Vanderbijlpark Campus, expressed gratitude to alumni and partners for their continued support.

Clement Manoko, executive director for corporate relations and marketing, was the programme director and guided proceedings.