Like in the past, the North-West University (NWU) will again in 2019 be bursting at the seam with first-year students. Just over 52 000 applications were received for the 2019 academic year, of which just more than 16 600 prospective students were provisionally accepted.
The university can accommodate only 9 391 first-year students in our eight faculties across our three campuses in Mahikeng, Potchefstroom and Vanderbijlpark. This is in line with our enrolment plan as agreed with the Department of Higher Education and Training. The over acceptance is to accommodate the normal fall-out experienced every year.
First-year students were welcomed on the Potchefstroom Campus on Saturday, 12 January 2019, after which the Registration and Orientation (R and O) programme commenced. Students who have been provisionally accepted at the Mahikeng and Vanderbijlpark campuses are expected to arrive on 21 January and the same programme will commence there.
As from 21 January, registration of the newcomers on our three campuses will start in full force. At this stage the NWU will no longer accept any new applications for the 2019 study year. The university is currently evaluating applications received within the time frame allocated for 2019 applications during 2018.
Applicants who have successfully applied for the 2019 study year have been informed of such. The university has a duty towards these students who applied within the allocated timeframe, and who met the academic requirements of their chosen fields of study. Late applications that have been received will be handled on a case by case basis, coupled with the availability of space.
The university can be contacted after Friday, 25 January 2019 in order to ascertain whether spots have opened up at the relevant campus, faculty or school where students would like to apply. Details of contact persons in this regard are available on our website.
The aim of the R and O programme is to facilitate the smooth transition into student life and all that it entails. This programme provides students with the opportunity to engage with academics, support structures and student leaders, as well as introducing them to all that the university has to offer. The programme is making the adjustment easier and also provides students with skills to adjust to university life successfully.
The NWU is fully committed to respecting the freedom and rights of all individuals and groups, as well as ensuring equality and human dignity for all. In support of this, the R and O programme also provides practical and valuable information sessions that outline the university’s policies on the responsible use of social media, human rights, zero tolerance for initiation practices and anti-social behaviour.
The continued success of this programme has reaped many rewards for thousands of students. The university is serious about the handling of any human rights abuses, and will act accordingly against perpetrators in terms of the rules and disciplinary processes of the university.
The NWU became aware of an incident over the past weekend in one of the men’s residences on the Potchefstroom Campus. Some members of the house committee allegedly failed to execute their responsibilities in a manner that adheres to the ethos of the NWU. These members of the house committee have been provisionally suspended from their positions, pending the outcome of the investigation. An interim committee will be established to take over their responsibilities.
Students have and will continuously be reminded of the thoughts and suggestions SMS line which can be used to bring any matter or grievance to the attention of the university.
We affirm that management remains responsible and accountable for the R and O programme and will continue to monitor it closely. Management is and will remain committed to fostering an environment conducive to creating a vibrant and fulfilling student experience.
We believe that we can build a caring culture and a vibrant student experience in 2019 and beyond.
