The North-West University (NWU) continues to advance its commitment to student success and holistic development through strategic partnerships and knowledge exchange.
In this regard, the acting campus director for student life on the Potchefstroom Campus, Funani Mabala, led a delegation on a benchmarking visit to the University of Pretoria from 19 to 23 April 2026.
Funani was accompanied by Tshediso Tom and Marlien Labuschagne, alongside a diverse student leadership delegation. The group included the Student Campus Council (SCC) residence officer, two portfolio committee members from the SCC residence office, and nine primaria representing day houses, senior residences and on-campus residences.
The purpose of the visit was to strengthen institutional collaboration and facilitate the exchange of best practices in residence life. The engagement focused on several key thematic areas, including student leadership and governance in residences, the design and implementation of impactful residence programmes, leadership development in residence contexts, and the cultivation of a cohesive and inclusive residence culture.
As part of the programme, the delegation visited two residences at the University of Pretoria, where they gained first-hand insight into residence life systems and practices. These engagements provided valuable exposure to student-centred approaches to community development, leadership cultivation and the effective operationalisation of residence structures.
The visit also created a platform for meaningful dialogue between student leaders and professional staff, enabling the sharing of experiences, challenges and innovative solutions. This exchange not only strengthened institutional relationships but also enriched the perspectives of the student leadership cohort from the NWU.
The knowledge and insights gained from this benchmarking initiative are expected to contribute significantly to the ongoing enhancement of residence life at the NWU. By integrating these learnings into its residence systems, the university aims to further strengthen its living-learning environments and promote student engagement, leadership and well-being.
Aligned with the core values of integrity, accountability, excellence and respect of the NWU, the initiative reinforces the commitment of the university to fostering a caring, inclusive and academically supportive residential experience.
Through initiatives such as this, the NWU continues to position itself as a student-centred institution dedicated to developing well-rounded graduates equipped for leadership and impact in society.
Staff from Student Life and students on the NWU’s Potchefstroom Campus during their benchmarking visit to the University of Pretoria.
