On 3 October 2025, the North-West University (NWU) will host a high-profile colloquium themed “Academic leadership as a catalyst for transformative change”, in honour of Professor John Makhene, a founding academic and former vice-chancellor of the then University of Bophuthatswana (UNIBO), which now forms part of the multicampus NWU.

Prof Makhene’s contributions to South African higher education were nothing short of transformative. A scholar, administrator and visionary leader, he played a pivotal role in establishing UNIBO as a beacon of academic excellence during a time of great political and educational upheaval. His legacy continues to resonate through the commitment of the NWU to inclusive, accessible and high-quality education.

Reflecting on a founding legacy

The colloquium aims to celebrate Prof Makhene’s profound influence not only on the institutional development of the NWU, but on higher education policy, leadership and the empowerment of black academic excellence in South Africa.

Through a series of addresses and personal tributes, the event will bring together esteemed colleagues, former students, academic peers and leaders from across the country to reflect on:

· The historical significance of UNIBO in post-apartheid education

· Prof Makhene’s vision for accessible, community-rooted higher learning

· The evolution of the NWU as a leading South African university

· The continued importance of ethical, transformative academic leadership

A space for celebration and critical reflection

This is more than a commemorative event, it is a moment to engage critically with South Africa’s educational past, acknowledge the individuals who shaped its course, and recommit to the ideals of academic freedom, social justice and institutional transformation.

“Prof Makhene was not just a university leader; he was a nation builder. Through this colloquium, we honour his leadership and challenge ourselves to live up to the values he embodied,” says Prof. Mzubanzi Bismark Tyobelo, principal and vice-chancellor of the NWU.

Theme:

As the NWU continues to advance its mission of becoming a unitary, integrated and multicampus university that reflects the diversity and strength of South Africa, the legacy of Prof John Makhene stands as a guiding light. This colloquium serves not only to celebrate his memory, but to inspire current and future generations of leaders, scholars and changemakers.

For more information, please contact: Oscar Mosiane: NWU Communication manager 076 684 5014 / 018389 2144 or oscar.mosiane@nwu.ac.za

Professor John Makhene