On 12 November 2021 the North-West University (NWU) vice-chancellor, Prof Dan Kgwadi, held an event to recognise students, staff and alumni who have authored non-academic works.

Facilitated by the executive director of the Corporate Relations and Marketing division, Clement Manoko, the event forms part of the NWU’s stakeholder engagement initiative.

During his welcoming address, Clement highlighted how art influences society by changing opinions, instilling values, and translating experiences across space and time.

“Research has shown that art affects the fundamental sense of self, and is often considered the repository of a society’s collective memory.

“For this reason the NWU saw this as an opportunity to establish an open relationship with our authors, to provide a platform for further interaction, and also to support and assist them in their trade. In short – fostering a community of art within art,” added Clement.

Prof Kgwadi said that universities must not operate in silos when they form part of the ecosystem of a society.

“I am encouraged by the young people who seem to dream beyond their material circumstances – they are leading the charge in being the difference they want to see in the world.

"We need to be proud of all our staff, students and alumni who excel in academic and non-academic spaces. Meeting our non-academic writers over the past few months, I was really impressed with how young some of them are. I kept asking myself how they managed to submit assignments and assessments and still find the time to write a book," said Prof Kgwadi.

Chief director for Library and Information Service Dr Matthew Moyo, said their role is to promote these writers through the acquisition of their books, whether for academic or recreational purposes.

“We want to serve as a national hub for resources written in our official languages. As such, we have already been acquiring books and some copies have been deposited in our special or rare book collection which is used for research purposes,” added Dr Moyo.

Non-academic and self-published author Siviwe Xhanti said having the support of the NWU goes a long way.

“Being given a platform to showcase our work is a welcome initiative.”

These are some of the books of non-academic writers that were on display during the event.

NWU vice-chancellor Prof Dan Kgwadi addresses attendees.