Despite pandemic-induced delays, the new Administration Building on the North-West University’s (NWU’s) Vanderbijlpark Campus was finally opened on 27 August 2021.

The ceremony took place on the front steps of the new building, situated across Hendrick Van Eck Boulevard. NWU management and staff, student leaders and alumni attended the event.

Now housing campus management and the whole campus administration, this new building is the product of the campus' efforts to address its long-standing strain on workspace.

This double-story structure of 2 246 square metres features a foyer, six kitchens, 10 storerooms, a reception area, boardroom, meeting rooms, offices and a call centre. It also includes a dedicated space to facilitate the enrolment process for the growing numbers of students at the campus, which currently stands at 7 500 students.

One of the highlights of the building designed by Mathews + Associates Architects, is the depiction of the Vaal River engraved on the wall and beautiful artwork displayed throughout the building.

To mark the opening, there was a ribbon-cutting by the NWU vice-chancellor Prof Dan Kgwadi, followed by a walk-through of the building. 

Prof Linda du Plessis, deputy vice-chancellor for planning and Vanderbijlpark Campus operations, says the opening of the new building was a joyous moment and that the building will make a huge difference in the campus’ service delivery.

“I want to thank all staff members who worked hard in making the move from the old building seamless. We want this building to be more than just a working space – it should be a place where everyone feels welcome and at home,” she said.

In his remarks Prof Kgwadi congratulated Prof Du Plessis and the team from Finance and Facilities for a job well done. He thanked the staff for making the campus a vibrant environment and commended the campus for being a beautiful and therapeutic space.

“I am very proud of this milestone which indicates our commitment to growth as set out in our strategy,” he said.

The event also saw principal architect at Mathews & Associates Architects, Pieter J Mathews, handing over his book, Musings, to Prof Kgwadi. The book features various architecture, photography, arts and essays on the works of the company, including the new building.

Watch the video of the unveiling of the new Administration building.

Principal architect at Mathews & Associates Architects, Pieter J Mathews, hands over his book, Musings, to Prof Dan Kgwadi, NWU vice-chancellor.

 Prof Linda Du Plessis, deputy vice-chancellor for planning and Vanderbijlpark Campus operations and Prof Dan Kgwadi, vice-chancellor, unveil the new building.