The North-West University (NWU) is home to more than 65 000 students, representing a demographical footprint across more than 70 countries with diverse cultures.

In light of this, the Student Campus Council (SCC) and the Culture Office on the campus in Mahikeng pulled out all the stops on 18 October 2019 to celebrate the NWU’s rich cultural diversity.

The events of the day included the display of various artefacts from different cultural groups such as traditional food, songs, dances, plays and stall exhibitions.

The main purpose of the day was not only to celebrate the diverse cultures and heritage found within NWU, but also to establish and further enhance a residence culture, and to raise awareness on xenophobia.

“Residences took part in a competition where each residence had to present two cultures – one South African and one international culture,” says Kamogelo Ntleane, the SCC arts and culture officer. “A panel of independent judges then scored each residence on the best representation of the different cultures through music, dance and food.”

Kamogelo says this event also served as a platform to condemn xenophobia and to further educate one another on different cultures and tolerance.

The following residences walked away with the spoils:

First place - Nelson Mandela residence: Best stall presentation, Best traditional song and overall winner of the competition

Second place - Steve Biko residence: Best cultural act

Third place - HopeLitsha residence: Best traditional food

NWU students on the campus in Mahikeng celebrate cultural diversity and tolerance.