More than 300 alumni members, affiliated to the Young Alumni Chapter of the campus, supported the initiative aimed to not only maintain friendships but also to raise much needed funds for deserving students.
In her address, Prof Du Plessis said that the event speaks to a strong heartbeat of compassion for future generations of alumni. “It is for this reason that I hold you and this initiative in very high regard, not only in my capacity as deputy vice-chancellor, but also as a fellow alumna. The fact that you have stepped-up to the plate and availed yourself to be champions of impact makes me immensely proud of you.”
During her address the Prof Du Plessis asked the alumni present if they are aware of the “immense value” they add to the South Africa of tomorrow. She said that by making time, resources or expertise available, they are not merely assisting a student on his/her journey to graduation, but they are also pro-actively helping families to be self-sufficient, communities to break free from the shackles of poverty and serving the country in reclaiming its rightful position as a leading economy on the African continent.
In sharing the new strategic direction of the NWU with the alumni, she said that as a unitary multi-campus university, the NWU is governed by a single set of policies, systems and standards, and is driven by a set of constitutionally based values, in particular human dignity, equality and freedom. “Our impact is driven by our quest for continued academic excellence and a passionate commitment to social justice. We go all-out to be the best – both locally and internationally, to excel in innovative and engaged scholarship and to serve – above all, with a sense of responsiveness and care.”
As the second largest university in South Africa, the NWU boasts with a student headcount of 72 313 – including distance learning students, and as such its demographic footprint reaches to all corners of South Africa.
“I hope that you will continue to support initiatives such as this one, because gatherings like this will serve as a foundation of unity – not only to the present generation, but also to the future generations as well. Lastly, on behalf of the university, I would like to thank all of you for having us witness this well-coordinated event. It is truly an honour to see the many faces of people who once aspired to be and became who they are today: ambassadors of the North-West University.”
