A group of executives from Afrocentric Group visited the North-West University (NWU) on Wednesday, 24 July, in their quest to meet with students who are recipients of their bursary scheme.
Afrocentric Group is currently funding 12 NWU students studying pharmacy and nursing in recognition of their academic excellence. In addition to connecting these students with departments and subsidiaries for potential internships and learnerships, the engagement aimed to establish a platform for students to socialise with medical experts and professionals in the field.
Prof Jeffrey Mphahlele, deputy vice-chancellor for research and innovation, welcomed all the guests and congratulated the students on receiving funding from Afrocentric Group, highlighting the significance of the event.
During his keynote address, Gerald van Wyk, the group executive officer of Afrocentric Group, stressed the need of visiting the students where they are.
He expanded on Afrocentric Group’s goal of helping students beyond just giving them financial support, stressing the importance of granting them industry exposure for the purpose of networking.
Atisang Mutsi, a third-year nursing student echoed his remarks, saying she was astounded by the efforts of Afrocentric Group.
“Today I was completely astonished, I never expected a bursary scheme to take students so seriously. It was an incredible experience; I learned a lot and this engagement is evidence that Afrocentric Group invests a lot in the students they fund.”
Furthermore, Brandon Peel, a magician and mentalist, dazzled the audience with a variety of impressive magic feats. Lesedi Lale, a famous content creator, academic and young professional, shared words of wisdom and motivated and encouraged the students to take advantage of their brilliance.
“Micromanagement is the best key to success after education. Do not try and do all things at once, take one step at a time. Do not be scared, go and pursue what you want to do and never feel doubtful,” Lesedi added.
Prof Awie Kotze, executive dean of the Faculty of Health Science, expressed his appreciation and advised the students to view obstacles as opportunities to grow.
Delivering professional and employable graduates is crucial to the NWU, and engagements such as this underscore the NWU’s commitment to broadening and solidifying its ties with industry partners.
The Afrocentric Group delegation introduces themselves to the students and the larger audience.
Gerald van Wyk, the group executive officer of Afrocentric Group, delivers the keynote address.
Prof Daryl Balia, deputy vice-chancellor for IT and Potchefstroom Campus operations, acknowledges the students.
The famous TikToker and young professional Lesedi Lale share words of motivation.
Brandon Peel, a magician and mentalist, dazzles the audience.
