Living the North-West University (NWU) way means to be value-driven and proud. During a prestige event on 25 May the university rewarded dedicated staff and students for promoting and enhancing its culture and strategy.
The NWU’s first Media and Organisational Citizenship Behaviour (OCB) Recognition Awards ceremony took place at the Roots function venue in Potchefstroom. Eighteen key influencers received recognition for their valued contributions as brand ambassadors, both internally and externally. Each of the recipients received a trophy, accompanied by a cash prize.
Staff and full-time students across the university’s three campuses had nominated their peers who had been quoted in the traditional and digital/social media, as well as those who had consistently promoted and demonstrated the NWU’s values during 2022. A panel of seven members consisting of staff and students adjudicated the nominations.
The university acknowledged nominees in eight categories.
The award recipients were:
Social Media Personality (for exceptional contributions towards the NWU’s public reputation on social media platforms) – Prof Nico Smit (staff) and Kagiso Somngesi (student).
Traditional Media Personality (for exceptional contributions in traditional media, including newspapers, television and radio) – Prof Raymond Parsons (staff) and Ian Thomson (student).
Exceptional Media Coverage (for an upsurge in media exposure during a limited time of seven to 14 days) – Prof Raymond Parsons (staff).
Social Responsibility and Awareness Advocate (for contributions relating to social rights responsibility and awareness, including gender-based violence, social engagement, disability rights, substance abuse, mental health and awareness, and social welfare projects) – shared by staff members Michelle Bownes and Mario Chaque. Obriel Takunda Maposa was the student recipient.
Diversity and Transformation Advocate (for exceptional contributions relating to transformation, and diversity concepts and initiatives relating to race, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity, cultural perspectives and multilingualism, among other things) – shared by staff members Dr Keaobaka Seshoka and Prof Sanette Brits. Thuso Molefi was the student recipient.
NWU Silver Wings Award (a discretionary recognition award to staff and students who have embodied the spirit and character of the university, its culture and identity). Staff and students voted for the recipients of this category.
Mahikeng Campus:
Student: Kgopotso Hope Sekgobela
Staff member: Prof Martin Chanza
Potchefstroom Campus:
Student: Sibongiseni Buthelezi
Staff member: Kelebogile Oompie
Vanderbijlpark Campus:
Student: Sicelo Sibeko
Staff member: Michelle Groenewald
NWU Ambassador of the Year (considered as the overall award, given in addition to one of the recipients of an NWU Media and OCB Recognition Award, excluding the Silver Wings Award) – Prof Sanette Brits (staff) and Kagiso Somngesi (student).
Vice-Chancellor’s Award (awarded by the vice-chancellor to a member of management who, through their work and involvement in the university, has made an exceptional contribution towards achieving the NWU’s strategy and values). From the names put forward, the panel made a decision to award this to Nkosinathi Tom.
Yusuf Abramjee, social cohesion and anti-crime advocate and media personality, was the guest speaker during the event.He said universities play a vital role in shaping not only the minds of their students but also the character of their communities.
“They (universities) serve as microcosms of society, reflecting the diversity that defines our nation. Building a shared institutional culture with this diverse context is both a challenge and an opportunity – a challenge because it requires understanding and embracing our differences, and an opportunity because it allows us to create a truly inclusive and enriching environment for all.”
According to Yusuf there has never been a time in history when so many voices are being heard. “The most important thing is that they are listened to. But, while the right to freedom of expression is enshrined in our Constitution and is an inherent freedom in most countries around the world, it also comes with great responsibility. To express ourselves freely and responsibly, we must embrace diversity.”
He singled out leadership as a key driver for success. “As a vital part of shaping a shared vision, culture and identity, personal leadership development is fundamental to the NWU achieving its goals.”
Explaining five leadership principles (modelling the way; inspiring a shared vision; challenging the process; enabling others to act; and encouraging the heart), he said he hoped it will inspire everyone to unlock their inner leader and together to shape a formidable NWU community that is a force for positive change in South Africa.
Click here to watch a video of the event
The award recipients at the NWU Media and Organisational Citizenship Behavioural Awards.
