One hundred and twenty prospective student leaders from across the North-West University's (NWU's) three campuses took part in the 2026 Senior Prestige Leadership Programme, an initiative presented by Student Life to develop values-driven leaders equipped to make a meaningful contribution within the University and beyond.

The programme, held during the June and July recess, brought together 40 participants from the Mahikeng Campus, 50 from the Potchefstroom Campus and 30 from the Vanderbijlpark Campus. While each campus tailored the programme to its unique context, all three followed a shared institutional leadership framework, aligned learning outcomes and common quality standards, ensuring a consistent leadership experience across the University.

The programme forms part of the Student Leadership Academy's broader vision of creating a structured leadership development pathway that empowers students to lead with confidence in their portfolios, on campus and in their communities.

Presented under the theme #ThroughTheLookingGlass, this year's programme encouraged participants to reflect on the perspectives through which they lead, fostering greater self-awareness, emotional intelligence and accountability. Through collaborative workshops, leadership simulations, case studies, stakeholder engagement sessions, panel discussions, team-building activities and practical leadership exercises, students explored what it takes to lead effectively in increasingly complex and diverse environments.

More than simply building leadership skills, the programme challenged participants to view leadership as a responsibility rooted in service, collaboration and ethical decision-making. In doing so, it reinforced the NWU's commitment to developing graduates who are not only academically accomplished but also socially responsible citizens equipped to create positive change.

According to Leroux Malan, Director: Student Experience, Governance and Transformation, the Senior Prestige Leadership Programme creates opportunities for current and aspiring student leaders to learn from one another, build lasting relationships and contribute to student success across the NWU.

"The Prestige Camps are about more than just skills transfer sessions. They create valuable connections amongst current and aspiring student leaders, enabling them to build a shared university experience that enables student success at grass-roots level."

Campus leaders reflect on the programme

Lerato Wana, Director: Student Life, Mahikeng Campus

"My prayer is that the students who attended the MC Prestige Camp have learned that people respond better to humanity, thus they should not think of their vulnerabilities as a liability, but rather as an essential component of authentic connection. Unlocking the empathetic persona is the new currency of leadership."

Funani Mabala, Director: Student Life, Potchefstroom Campus

"The Prestige Camp once again proved to be an invaluable platform for leadership development on campus. It provides aspiring student leaders from diverse portfolios with the opportunity to learn, collaborate, and engage with one another while shaping a shared vision for the future of our vibrant campus community."

Chris Williams, Director: Student Life, Vanderbijlpark Campus

"The Prestige Academy is pivotal as it equips students with the skills and knowledge to excel in their current and future leadership roles, both at the institution and when they enter the world of work."

Students reflect on a transformative experience

For many participants, the programme was more than a leadership course, it was an opportunity to grow, challenge themselves and gain a deeper understanding of what it means to lead with purpose.

A participant from the Mahikeng Campus said:

"I would highly recommend this programme to students who are passionate about leadership. It strengthens your leadership skills and prepares you for the realities of leading others. Leadership is not always easy, and there will be setbacks, but this programme helps you develop the resilience and confidence to navigate those challenges."

A participant from the Potchefstroom Campus reflected on the inclusive learning environment:

"I would recommend this programme because it helps students feel included, strengthens communication and teamwork, and supports personal growth. It is also a great opportunity to connect with other students who share an interest in leadership."

Mahikeng Campus

Potchefstroom Campus

Vanderbijlpark Campus