Student leadership plays an important role in shaping the university experience and preparing students to lead with purpose, responsibility and confidence. The NWU Student Leadership Summit (SLS), first launched in 2023, provides a platform for student leaders to learn from one another, share ideas and develop skills that will help them make a positive difference.

The 2026 Summit, themed “Through the Hourglass: Leading with Purpose and Presence,” brought together 90 NWU students from all three campuses, along with an international delegation of 10 students and five staff members from Botho University, the University of Kigali, the University of the West Indies, and Botswana University of Agriculture and Natural Resources (BUAN).

The programme began with a pre-summit workshop, where students developed and presented practical ideas on entrepreneurship, student-led mentorship, ethical leadership, alumni engagement, Indigenous Knowledge Systems and accountability. The day also included a Heritage Day Gala Dinner, which celebrated the different cultures represented at the Summit.

The main programme featured an address by NWU principal and vice-chancellor, Prof. Bismark Tyobeka, an overview of the achievements and continued growth of the Student Leadership Academy, and a presentation by NWU alumna Yolandi Pietersen.

International partners from Botho University and the University of Kigali also shared how their institutions support and develop student leaders. Their presentations explored student leadership structures, good practices, diversity and inclusion, and the role student leaders can play in creating a more inclusive university environment.

A panel discussion on current affairs and leadership brought together NWU Convocation members, former Student Representative Council (SRC) members, current SRC representatives and an international student from BUAN. The discussion created an opportunity for student leaders from different generations and backgrounds to share their experiences and reflect on the challenges and responsibilities of student leadership.

The programme concluded with the current SRC president highlighting the key discussions and lessons from the Summit.

The 2026 Student Leadership Summit continued to build on the SLS vision of developing purposeful, responsive and globally connected student leaders. By bringing students and international partners together, the Summit created space for learning, collaboration and practical ideas that can help shape the future of student leadership at NWU.

Prof Bismark Tyobeka, Prof Dumi Moyo, Andiswa Msi