Donors and industry partners play a vital role in keeping dreams alive at the North-West University (NWU). This was highlighted at the annual Donors and Stakeholders Luncheon, held in Pretoria on 28 October, at which the university expressed its deep appreciation for these invaluable partnerships.
The luncheon is one of the key stewardship events of the NWU. It celebrates generosity and reaffirms the university’s commitment to excellence in teaching, research and community engagement. The event brought together senior management, members of the Board of Donors, donors, industry partners and special guests.
The programme, directed by Silvanus Welcome, director for Development and Fundraising, featured messages of gratitude, success stories and reflections from both beneficiaries and benefactors.
In her welcoming address, Percy Moleke, chairperson of the NWU Board of Donors, said the annual event is an opportunity for donors to get to know the university better and to find out where their donations are going. She said the event connects donors with the stories and aspirations behind their support and strengthens the relationship between the donor community, students and the institution.
Dr Anna Mokgokong, chancellor, thanked donors for helping to bridge the gap between potential and achievement, enabling students from all backgrounds to pursue excellence. She celebrated the success of the NWU’s Giving Week, which raised over R1,7 million for the We Care Bursary Fund, calling it “an act of faith in young people and in the power of education to transform society.” She added: “Let us commit not merely to donate, but to belong and become part of the NWU family who keeps dreams alive.”
Prof Bismark Tyobeka, principal and vice-chancellor, highlighted several milestones. He noted the leadership of the NWU in digital transformation through the NWU AI Hub, which offers innovative AI literacy and certification programmes. The global footprint of the university continues to grow through initiatives such as the African International Teaching Week and partnerships with institutions in Zambia, Botswana, Brazil and the United States.
He said the NWU ranks among South Africa’s top universities for NRF-rated researchers, with postgraduate excellence supported by the full cost Master’s and PhD bursary fund for qualifying students. Community engagement remains central to the mission of the NWU, reflected in initiatives such as the Vice-Chancellor’s Science Day and the 2025 Community Engagement Showcase under the theme “Rooted in Africa, Engaging Communities, and Impacting the World”.
The university also celebrated achievements in sport, leadership and innovation.
Bert Sorgdrager, chairperson of the Council, said the NWU is entering an exciting phase, with four faculties soon welcoming new deans. “With an energised team, we are heading toward a new level of growth,” he said, pointing to developments such as the Desmond Tutu School of Medicine, the School of Mines and Mining Engineering, and the School of Veterinary Sciences. “It is a good time for the university. Visit our campuses and experience these exciting developments for yourself,” he concluded.
Dr Anna Mokgokong, chancellor, Prof Bismark Tyobeka, principal and vice-chancellor, and Percy Moleke, chairperson of the NWU Board of Donors.
The annual Donors and Stakeholders Luncheon of the NWU brought together senior management, members of the Board of Donors, donors, industry partners and special guests.
The annual Donors and Stakeholders Luncheon of the NWU brought together senior management, members of the Board of Donors, donors, industry partners and special guests.
