North-West University (NWU) joined international conversations on intercultural understanding and inclusion when representatives from its Potchefstroom Campus attended the UNESCO Chair on Intercultural Competence Conference in Dakar, Senegal, from 12 to 16 October 2026.

Held under the theme “Exploring Intercultural Competences in African Contexts”, the conference brought together perspectives on how intercultural competence can be developed and promoted in societies shaped by diverse cultures, languages and experiences.

Representing the NWU,Funani Mabala, director of Student Life on the Potchefstroom Campus, and Tshediso Tom, administrative assistant in the Office of the Director: Student Life, presented a paper titled “Exploring Intercultural Learning through Student Life at NWU’s Potchefstroom Campus”.

Their presentation explored how the everyday student experience can become a powerful space for intercultural learning. It highlighted the contribution of student leadership, peer-to-peer engagement, campus traditions and meaningful dialogue in helping students navigate cultural differences, develop mutual understanding and build a sense of belonging.

The presentation also demonstrated that intercultural competence is not developed through formal learning alone. It takes shape through everyday interactions and shared experiences, where students have opportunities to learn from one another, engage with different perspectives and participate meaningfully in campus life.

Among the key themes explored were the role of student-led initiatives in promoting inclusion, the value of peer learning in bridging cultural differences, and the importance of creating spaces where open dialogue and shared campus traditions can strengthen social cohesion.

NWU’s participation offered an opportunity to share the South African higher education experience with an international audience while highlighting the important role that Student Life plays in holistic student development.