Newsroom - Vaal Triangle Campus

Vanderbijlpark Campus hosts Inaugural Alumni and Friends Sports Day

BELINDA BANTHAM — Mon, 30 Jun 2025 06:26:20 +0000

Vanderbijlpark Campus hosts Inaugural Alumni and Friends Sports Day

BELINDA BANTHAM Mon, 06/30/2025 - 08:26

The North-West University’s (NWU) Vanderbijlpark Campus burst into life on June 16 as it welcomed back former students, staff, and community partners for its inaugural Alumni and Friends Sports Fun Day. The event, held on Youth Day, blended athletic energy with heartfelt reconnection, marking a new chapter in alumni engagement through the unifying power of sport.

Soccer took centre stage, with friendly yet competitive matches featuring teams such as Black Pool, VUT, Young Alumni Soccer Ladies, and Vaal Ladies. Alumni played alongside staff and invited stakeholders, reviving campus camaraderie and sparking conversations about future collaboration.

More than just a sports day, the event signalled the beginning of a broader initiative - laying the groundwork for the formation of a Vanderbijlpark Campus Sports Alumni Chapter. For organisers, it was about far more than goals scored on the field.

“This event was about more than just sport - it was about reconnecting and reigniting the NWU alumni spirit,” said Zanele Ngobese from the Alumni Relations Office. “Sport has always had the power to unite people. We used that spirit to bring our alumni and friends back into the fold, laying the foundation for long-term involvement.”

Youth Day, with its profound significance in South African history, served as a meaningful backdrop. As attendees laced up their boots and shared memories on the sidelines, the atmosphere echoed the NWU’s ongoing commitment to youth empowerment through education and sport.

In attendance was Silvanus Welcome, director for development and fundraising, who emphasised the strategic role of alumni in the university’s growth.

“Our alumni are a vital part of the university’s development ecosystem. This event exemplifies how social and sporting platforms can be used not just to build relationships, but to ignite philanthropic interest and collaborative growth opportunities for the campus and surrounding communities.”

The day also featured informal discussions around student-athlete support, mentorship, and the role alumni can play in shaping a more inclusive, empowered NWU community.

While a few minor challenges emerged, such as a brief shortage of amenities due to the public holiday; the event ran smoothly overall, thanks to a responsive organising team and a deeply engaged audience. Many attendees praised the welcoming atmosphere, community spirit, and the strategic direction the event represented.

With over 100 attendees, enthusiastic feedback, and growing interest from those who could not attend, plans are already underway to make the Alumni and Friends Sports Day a flagship annual event, with potential for expansion to other NWU campuses.

“The overwhelmingly positive response confirms that there’s a real appetite for meaningful alumni engagement,” said Zanele. “We’re excited to build on this momentum.”

As the final whistle blew and teams posed for photos, it was clear that the day had scored more than goals. It had rekindled connections, inspired new ideas, and reminded everyone of the enduring bond between the NWU and its people - on and off the field.

Soccer took centre stage at the inaugural NWU Alumni and Friends Sports Fun Day.

Vanderbijlpark Campus marks History Month with powerful Sharpeville reflections

BELINDA BANTHAM — Tue, 17 Jun 2025 08:24:16 +0000

Vanderbijlpark Campus marks History Month with powerful Sharpeville reflections

by Zenoyise John

BELINDA BANTHAM Tue, 06/17/2025 - 10:24

In commemoration of History Month, the School of Social Sciences at the Vanderbijlpark Campus of the North-West University (NWU), in collaboration with its community partner, Vaal HiRAI, hosted a poignant community engagement seminar under the theme “Remembering Sharpeville”. Attended by 36 participants, the seminar served as a powerful reflection on the importance of historical memory and the role of public history in community identity.

The Sharpeville Massacre remains one of South Africa’s most significant and painful historical events. With this in mind, the seminar used Sharpeville as a case study to examine memorialisation, community history, and the importance of preserving local narratives.

“We wanted to highlight the importance of the memorialisation of public histories and the institutional role in preserving these narratives,” explained Ms Basetsana Tsuwane, History lecturer and one of the seminar organisers.

The event opened with a series of reflective presentations by three NWU alumni, who shared personal insights into Sharpeville’s history and its continued resonance in today’s society. These narratives underscored the necessity of safeguarding memory – not just through monuments, but through storytelling, education and dialogue.

The second half of the seminar featured a book discussion led by Father Patrick Noonan, a long-time community figure and social justice advocate. The discussion was followed by a screening of oral history interviews from the Southern Archives offering raw and moving testimonies from Sharpeville residents and survivors.

This session concluded with a presentation by NWU librarians, who showcased the ongoing efforts of the university in digitisation and open access, critical tools in ensuring that knowledge is not only preserved but made accessible to future generations.

In a creative closing gesture, Gilbert Maepa, a visual artist and MA candidate from the VUT, donated a piece of his artwork to one of the speakers, symbolising the role of art in historical healing and remembrance.

The audience included a wide range of stakeholders: teachers from Batloung Primary School, a scholar from the UWC, library officials from Sedibeng Municipality, bookshop owners, community leaders and members of the local clergy. This diverse gathering reflected the collaborative spirit the organisers hoped to foster.

One particularly moving moment arose during the Q&A session when schoolteachers challenged the NWU to take the lead and consider making History a compulsory module across all faculties to demonstrate the urgency of historical literacy in contemporary education.

“The seminar reminded us of our own positionality as educators and academics in shaping how history is remembered and taught,” noted Tsuwane.

Feedback from attendees was overwhelmingly positive, with many calling for more events like this in the future to deepen public engagement with local histories.

The seminar forms part of a broader initiative to embed community history within academic frameworks and public consciousness. By spotlighting Sharpeville, the event not only honoured the past but also sparked renewed commitment to collaborative historical preservation.

As the university continues its outreach and engagement activities, events like “Remembering Sharpeville” serve as a reminder that history is not just something to be studied – it is something to be lived, shared and safeguarded.

Some races are worth running

BELINDA BANTHAM — Fri, 13 Jun 2025 11:12:50 +0000

Some races are worth running

by Steve Maphakathe

BELINDA BANTHAM Fri, 06/13/2025 - 13:12

When the 2025 Comrades Marathon kicked off on Sunday, 8 June, Benjamin Tjiane was running more than just the 90-odd kilometres between Durban and Pietermaritzburg. He was pursuing a goal that had started during the Covid-19 lockdowns. What began as a personal challenge has evolved into something much deeper.

“My first race was 21 km in 2019. After Covid-19, I challenged myself to run 42 and 50 km races, which were qualifying criteria for the Comrades," Benjamin remembers, “and that is how I started running Comrades marathons, realising I have endurance."

Tjiane, a Venda Athletic Club member and a North-West University (NWU) master’s-degree student, finished this year’s Comrades in a time of 11 hours, 27 minutes and 53 seconds, supplementing his collection with a fourth medal. Crossing the finish line triggered an influx of emotions for Tjiane.

“I experienced a blend of emotions, feeling joyful for having made my family proud. The fact that I was being tracked on the screen until after 17:00 was a commitment that should not be overlooked. The realisation that I am adding the fourth medal filled me with immense excitement and joy,” he says.

Tough times never last

It turned out that Tjiane had had a difficult time throughout the first 30 kilometres of the race. “Down-run races are tough, and so was this year’s Comrades Marathon. It is all about applying brakes, which result in blisters, locked feet and cramps. The first 30 km of the race was tough, if not challenging – it is 45% of the total height to climb a mountain, and having passed Polly Shortts up to Drummond was a relief.”

Tjiane is not just noticing coincidences between his academic journey and his running. His research focuses on the “Adverse reporting of media in the administration of justice: case study on criminal court matters”, a subject dear to his heart because of his extensive legal background. “I have had 27 years in the legal fraternity and have seen the negative impact of the media. It is taking a toll on us," he states, referring to the pre-emptive judgements made by journalists and individuals on social applications.

Tjiane hopes his research will bring significant transformation. “Media sensationalism will stop; the judiciary will deliver quality judgements, and citizen journalism will exist no more, especially if the Criminal Procedure Act on case reporting can be enacted.” He notes similarities between his two endeavours, stating, "A runner should never be disturbed or interfered with during race preparations," similar to how the judiciary should function without media interference.

A philosophy, formed over 27 years in the legal fraternity, has helped him get through both the hard first 30 kilometres of the down run and the methodical process of his academic study. “When the going is tough, never give up. The race hills are like my research study – I will never stop until I reach the rewarding stage,” Tjiane adds.

His commitment is evident in more ways than one. He dedicated this year's Comrades to his daughter, Lethabo, who was unable to attend because of her exam obligations.

Health and excellence

At a time when many think about taking it easy, Tjiane illustrates that life after 40 can serve as a launchpad instead of an endpoint. His dedication to running is not just for awards or records; it is also to keep up the mental and physical strength needed for academic work and professional excellence. “Running is about self-discipline and self-motivation," he states.

Whether tackling the difficult obstacles of legal research or the notorious hills of the Comrades route, he has never considered quitting, emphasising that, “After each uphill, there is a downhill (to enjoy)”.

For Tjiane, whether he is sprinting towards a finish line or pursuing a degree, the core principles remain unchanged: discipline, determination and the unshakeable belief that each difficult kilometre brings him nearer to his objective.

Benjamin Tjiane

Ch@s peer helpers shine at 2025 NWU graduation

BELINDA BANTHAM — Fri, 13 Jun 2025 10:36:46 +0000

Ch@s peer helpers shine at 2025 NWU graduation

by Angeline Marokoane

BELINDA BANTHAM Fri, 06/13/2025 - 12:36

In a heartwarming and triumphant celebration of perseverance, passion, and purpose, the Ch@s peer helpers from the North-West University’s Vanderbijlpark Campus made an unforgettable mark during the May 2025 graduation ceremonies. But this was not just any graduation story — this was a victory parade for a group of student leaders whose impact reached far beyond academics.

From the bustling corridors of campus to the safe spaces of counselling rooms, these Peer Helpers became champions of emotional wellness and academic support, walking alongside their fellow students through the highs and lows of student life. As the tassels turned and the degrees were conferred, the air was thick with pride.

At the helm of this dynamic team stood Mandla Maduna, the 2024 chairperson, whose steady leadership anchored the group during a year rich in mental health advocacy and peer-led initiatives. From awareness campaigns to crisis interventions, Mandla led with vision and unwavering commitment.

Equally remarkable was Winile Mthembu, deputy chairperson and graduate with distinction, who balanced academic brilliance with a compassion-driven leadership style that made every peer feel seen, heard, and supported.

Sibongile Dhlamini the secretary, kept the engine running smoothly with meticulous organisation and effective communication — a behind-the-scenes maestro whose work ensured every project stayed on track.

With a love for learning and a gift for empowering others, Thandiwe Majola, the academics officer, created transformative spaces for academic growth, reminding students that excellence is a journey best taken together.

Also honoured were Promise Nxumalo and Reabetswe Tsoai, who both graduated with distinction, cementing their roles not only as academic achievers but as pillars of the Peer Helpers team — always ready with a listening ear and a helping hand.

These individuals were more than students. They were mentors, motivators, and mental health ambassadors. Their graduation represents the culmination of a journey marked by selflessness and service and their contributions will echo in the lives of those they’ve supported.

Lesedi Sebetha, Ch@s peer helpers coordinator, beamed with pride as he paid tribute to the graduates:

“To the 2024 Ch@s graduates — I am beyond proud of each one of you. Your resilience, selflessness, and dedication throughout the year set you apart as true changemakers. It has been a privilege to witness your growth and the incredible support you’ve offered to fellow students. As you now venture into the next chapter of your lives, whether that be job hunting, starting new careers, or pursuing further education, I wish you nothing but success. Always walk tall knowing the world needs more people like you — grounded, passionate, and purpose-driven. Once a Peer Helper, always a Peer Helper.”

As the Ch@s peer helpers don their gowns and step boldly into the future, one thing is certain — they leave behind more than empty seats in the student offices. They leave behind a trail of transformed lives, inspired peers, and a culture of care that will carry on through those who follow in their footsteps.

Mandla Maduna

Thandiwe Majola

NWU hosts successful International Week Symposium

BELINDA BANTHAM — Tue, 10 Jun 2025 12:57:09 +0000

NWU hosts successful International Week Symposium

by Zenoyise John

BELINDA BANTHAM Tue, 06/10/2025 - 14:57

The School for Industrial Psychology and Human Resource Management at the North-West University (NWU) recently hosted a highly successful International Week Symposium, spearheaded by Prof Bouwer Jonker.

This two-day hybrid event underscored the university’s commitment to internationalisation, academic excellence, and the development of globally competent human resources and industrial psychology professionals.

The symposium welcomed both in-person and online attendees and created a platform for robust intercultural exchange and scholarly dialogue. It brought together leading voices in the field, fostering conversations on emerging global trends and pressing local challenges.

Opening the event, Prof Marissa Brouwers, deputy director of the school, highlighted the significance of the symposium in advancing the mission of the school. “This symposium reflects our commitment to building an internationally connected academic environment that equips our students and staff with the insight and agility needed for a changing world of work,” she said. “It was an overwhelming success – both in the quality of conversations and the meaningful connections it fostered.”

Throughout the two days, participants engaged with presentations by distinguished speakers. Prof Charissa Freese from the Avans University of Applied Sciences and extraordinary professor at the NWU, delivered insights on financial dimensions of HR in her talk, “Understanding where the money comes from”.

Prof Ajay Jivan, from the South African Board of People Practices, addressed critical national issues in “Pressing human resource management issues in South Africa”. Prof Elaine Farndale, from Penn State University, contributed with a forward-looking presentation on “Human resource management strategy in a changing work environment”.

Their contributions were followed by dynamic panel discussions, also featuring Prof Rene Schalk of Tilburg University. The symposium was facilitated and concluded each day by Prof Bouwer Jonker, who ensured smooth engagement and reflection.

Key topics included the strategic positioning of human resources within organisations, the importance of financial understanding for human resource professionals, and the growing need for academic programmes that integrate finance and human resources. The role of hybrid work in shaping organisational culture and morale was debated, alongside future workforce capabilities and the expanding influence of automation, agentive AI and generative AI (GenAI) on human resource functions. Thought-provoking discussions emerged around how to define “good work” in increasingly digital environments, and how HR can bridge the gap between academia and industry.

A notable outcome of the symposium was the announcement of a research collaboration between Prof Jonker, Prof Irmgard Borghouts of Tilburg University and Prof Charissa Freese. Together, they will develop a transitional inclusive human resource management labour market model aimed at addressing labour market challenges through inclusive human resource strategies.

Prof Brouwers said that feedback from delegates described the symposium as relevant, timely and highly impactful. “Many delegates expressed that the themes discussed would influence curriculum development, policy decisions and organisational practices across the higher-education and professional sectors.”

TELIT-SA champions innovation at 2025 NWU CTL Teaching and Learning Conference

BELINDA BANTHAM — Mon, 09 Jun 2025 08:29:40 +0000

TELIT-SA champions innovation at 2025 NWU CTL Teaching and Learning Conference

by Zenoyise John

BELINDA BANTHAM Mon, 06/09/2025 - 10:29

At the 2025 Teaching and Learning Conference of the North-West University’s (NWU’s) Centre for Teaching and Learning (CTL), members of the TELIT-SA research entity demonstrated why they are at the forefront of educational innovation.

Themed “Reimagining the future of teaching and learning: synergy, sustainability and success”, the conference served as a dynamic platform for TELIT-SA scholars to share research-driven strategies that shape the evolving landscape of higher education.

Prof Clarise Mostert delivered a thought-provoking presentation titled “Enhancing global employability skills through project-based learning and international collaboration”. Her work underscored the importance of equipping students with globally relevant skills through practical, cross-border educational experiences, positioning them for success in an increasingly interconnected world.

In another impactful session, Prof Lilian Nwosu explored the role of artificial intelligence in shaping academic assessment. Her presentation, “Artificial intelligence proficiency and accounting exam papers: implications for assessment”, delved into the complex relationship between AI, academic integrity and curriculum development. She called attention to the urgent need for frameworks that balance technological advancement with ethical responsibility in assessment practices.

Dr Kezel Klinck addressed the student experience in her presentation, “Navigating the new normal: student perceptions of emerging technologies at a higher education institution”. Her research revealed key insights into how students are engaging with new technologies in the post-pandemic academic environment, offering valuable implications for institutions striving to enhance digital inclusivity and learning support.

A highlight of the conference was a panel discussion titled “Reimagining higher education: AI’s role in shaping the future of learning”, featuring Prof Liandi van den Berg, director of TELIT-SA, along with Dr Thamie Ndlovu and Yolande Steward. Their discussion centred on the ethical integration of artificial intelligence in education and the transformative potential it holds – if implemented thoughtfully and responsibly. The session received an award as one of the best of the conference, a testament to the relevance and quality of the perspectives shared.

Reflecting on the panel and the broader conference, Prof Van den Berg commented, “AI should never replace the human element in education. It must serve as a tool that amplifies the educator’s ability to connect, inspire and personalise learning. Our focus at TELIT-SA is to ensure that technological innovation remains aligned with human-centred, ethical teaching practices.”

She added that the outstanding contributions from TELIT-SA members not only showcased their research excellence, but also reinforced the entity’s commitment to reimagining teaching and learning for a sustainable, inclusive future. She said that, through evidence-based scholarship and a strong focus on responsible innovation, TELIT-SA continues to lead the way in shaping higher education in South Africa and beyond.

A highlight of the conference was a panel discussion titled “Reimagining higher education: AI’s role in shaping the future of learning”.

From construction sites to graduation gown

BELINDA BANTHAM — Thu, 05 Jun 2025 09:13:39 +0000

From construction sites to graduation gown

by Angeline Marokoane

BELINDA BANTHAM Thu, 06/05/2025 - 11:13

When Mongezi Prince Mbamba walked across the graduation stage at the Vanderbijlpark Campus of the North-West University (NWU) on 21 May 2025, it was not just a degree he carried – it was the weight of years of sacrifice, resilience and unyielding faith.

Born into a humble background and raised by a single mother alongside two siblings, Mongezi’s path to becoming a qualified social worker was anything but straightforward. After matriculating in 2016, with dreams in hand but no clear direction, he faced an uncertain future. What followed was an unplanned gap year in 2017 – marked by hardship, determination and the first steps in a journey that would test and ultimately define him.

“I worked wherever I could to support myself and my family,” Mongezi recalls. He began as a general worker on the Curro Vanderbijlpark construction site and later found employment at West Pack Lifestyle. In 2020, fate took an unexpected turn when he became part of the team constructing the A1 Administration Building at the NWU – the very institution that would soon become his academic home.

Despite repeated rejections from universities, Mongezi never gave up. He leaned on faith and perseverance, applying year after year. In 2021, at the age of 22, his long-held dream finally materialised: he was accepted into the Bachelor of Social Work programme at the Vanderbijlpark Campus of the NWU.

University life brought its own set of challenges. As the oldest child and family breadwinner, Mongezi had no financial safety net. He worked tirelessly to make ends meet – washing cars, sneakers and carpets for fellow students, and taking retail jobs during the holidays, including at the One by One Supermarket in Vanderbijlpark. With little money for textbooks, he relied heavily on the university library and the generosity of others.

“I could not afford to go home during holidays,” he says. “I stayed in student accommodation with the help of my landlord and found ways to survive.”

Through every hurdle, he remained steadfast. “This degree tested me in every way – mentally, emotionally, physically and spiritually. But that pressure became my fuel,” Mongezi says. His efforts were not limited to the classroom. He threw himself into late-night study sessions, group projects, academic competitions and spiritual growth.

In his second year, he joined a faith-based student fellowship. “We were brothers in Christ, supporting one another in our studies, our lives and our purpose,” he shares. That support, he believes, was instrumental not only in his graduation, but in shaping the man he has become.

Mongezi credits much of his success to key mentors along the way. “Jason Beukes and Naledi Lehutso were like parents to me,” he says. “They provided everything, from study materials to clothes for practicals. Their kindness opened doors I did not know existed.”

As part of his qualification, Mongezi completed three major practical placements that brought theory to life:

· Polokong Children’s Village – Focusing on children and youth services before its closure.

· Emthonjeni Satellite One Centre – Hands-on group work practice.

· Department of Social Development, Sebokeng – Where he excelled in case and community work, earning second prize for a community project at a student social work conference.

“These experiences gave me real insight into what social work truly is. They deepened my passion and prepared me to serve with confidence and integrity.”

Now a qualified social worker, Mongezi is actively seeking employment or internship opportunities. He brings with him not only a solid academic foundation and practical experience, but a mission: to uplift the vulnerable, speak for the voiceless, and offer hope to those often forgotten. Quoting the scripture that carried him through, he reflects:

“I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.” — Philippians 4:13

His message to others? “To anyone still trying, still hoping, still fighting – do not give up. Your journey may take longer. It may look different. But if it is meant for you, nothing can stop it. Trust God. Trust yourself. And never stop dreaming.”

Mongezi Prince Mbamba and his family.

NWU students shine in 48-hour Arcademia Game Jam

BELINDA BANTHAM — Wed, 04 Jun 2025 09:49:16 +0000

NWU students shine in 48-hour Arcademia Game Jam

by Steve Maphakathe

BELINDA BANTHAM Wed, 06/04/2025 - 11:49

Students from the North-West University (NWU) recently collaborated with their counterparts from the University of Lincoln (UoL) in the United Kingdom for the Arcademia Global Game Jam, an intense 48-hour competition to create playable arcade games. The "Echoes Across the Arcade" theme urged participants to consider how the past influences the present through gameplay.

The jam was hosted by the School of Computer Science and Information Systems in the Faculty of Natural and Agricultural Sciences (FNAS) at the NWU, together with the UoL Computer Science Society, which is a key partner in this competition. The Hybrid Teaching Mobility Project, which was financed by the UCDG, and the Centre for Teaching and Learning at the NWU supported the larger international teaching initiative.

A total of fifteen games were filed, nine from the UoL and six from the NWU. To ensure fairness and objectivity, the games were judged cross-institutionally, with the NWU evaluating the UoL submissions and vice versa. Submissions were evaluated on creativity, technical execution, gameplay and alignment with the theme.

The winners

Muhammad Omar, Jan-Paul van den Berg, Raken Belayet, Humaid Ebrahim, Mbuyelo Batlile Mboweni, Andre Vermeulen and Sulaiman Sulaman produced the fast-paced 2D twin-stick shooter IP Conflict, which took the first prize. Given the time constraint, their polished mechanics and execution of their game made an ever-lasting impression.

The second place produced a tie. Bit Brawler, Stephen Nel's solo project, was notable for its nostalgic retro style and tight battle system. A team of seven, Lethabo Maepa, Fikile Ntsala, Jorge Saname, Khodani Ludere, Mosa Cindi, Tanyi Samuel Mthuli and Nyengedzo Jonathan Cherane, created DragonJourney, which had a compelling storyline and stunning graphics.

Echoes in the Dark won first place at Lincoln, thanks to its evocative, surreal gameplay. Geometry Smash won second place due to its simple, elegant design. Retro-Ware, TaxiSimulator, and Geometry Jump, three games that each contributed something different, tied for third place.

Game development as a first

For many, the jam was their first venture into game development. Some experimented with industry technologies such as the Godot engine, while others created code from scratch. Teams developed naturally, and by the conclusion of the jam, new friendships and partnerships had formed.

Muhammad Omar from IP Conflict stated, "The game jam was one of the highlights of my academic life. It was great to be able to create and show off something we worked so hard on. I hope we can do it again.”

Lethabo Maepa from DragonJourney expressed a similar sentiment: "It was enjoyable. Making games with Godot taught me something new, and I will be trying to learn more about it."

In an effort to attract students from a greater variety of specialities and prevent exam conflicts, organisers are already planning future jams. There are ongoing discussions about expanding the Arcademia concept to institutions on different continents in order to grow its international reach and create a global network of game developers.

The development of a digital game library showcasing student-made games and an annual jam schedule are in the works. High participation by students and increasing university support are making Arcademia more than simply a fun competition – it is developing into a long-lasting platform for education, innovation and global cooperation.

Dr Lance Bunt, senior lecturer at the School of Computer Science and Information Systems and coordinator of the event, concluded, “This is not just about games. It is about learning, legacy, and lifting each other up through creativity. Arcademia shows us what is possible when we teach not only with our minds but with our playfulness."

To a successful Global Game Jam

The IP Conflict squad celebrates their first-place victory. From the left are Andre Vermeulen, Humaid Ebrahim, Muhammad Omar, Batlile Mboweni, Raken Belayet, Sulaiman Sulaman and Jan-Paul van den Berg.

Stephen Nel secured a tied second place with his solo project, Bit Brawler.

The DragonJourney team tied for second place with their 2D adventure.

Horizon Residence hosts an inspiring Alumni Business Venture and Graduation event

BELINDA BANTHAM — Tue, 03 Jun 2025 06:36:05 +0000

Horizon Residence hosts an inspiring Alumni Business Venture and Graduation event

by Zenoyise John

BELINDA BANTHAM Tue, 06/03/2025 - 08:36

The Horizon Residence, specifically allocated to postgraduate students on the North-West University’s (NWU’s) Vanderbijlpark Campus, recently hosted a memorable Alumni Business Venture and Graduation event that brought together a dynamic mix of graduates, alumni and aspiring entrepreneurs for an evening of inspiration, celebration and meaningful connections.

Held at Verries Hall, the event celebrated the academic achievements of recent graduates, while shining a spotlight on alumni-led entrepreneurial ventures. More than just a ceremony, the gathering was a vibrant platform to promote responsible and informed entrepreneurship, peer mentorship and lifelong networking.

The primary goal of the event was to honour the hard work and success of graduating students, while also fostering collaboration among NWU alumni. Highlights of the evening included compelling keynote addresses by successful NWU alumni who are now leaders in their respective industries.

Among them were Kamohelo Zwane, president of the Student Representative Council, Dr Onnicah Motloung, a lecturer at the University of Johannesburg, Mr Moeketsi, campus representative of Enactus, and Mr Mosia, a rising entrepreneur, each of whom shared personal insights into the challenges and triumphs of life beyond the university.

In a particularly memorable moment, the room came alive when graduates spontaneously joined together in a joyful dance, symbolising unity and shared accomplishment. Another key highlight was the structured networking session, during which participants eagerly exchanged contacts, stories and potential ideas for collaboration.

Two promising alumni ventures were showcased at the event, representing the IT and academic sectors. These presentations not only inspired but also sparked discussions around sustainable business models and innovation in South Africa’s evolving economic landscape. Several alumni expressed interest in forming a support group aimed at helping recent graduates to transition successfully into professional life.

Ujeet Maharaj, prosecutor, head of Student Discipline and house parent at Horizon Residence, said the feedback from attendees was overwhelmingly positive. “Many students and staff members praised the professional yet intimate atmosphere of the event, the relevance of the topics discussed, and the opportunities it created for both personal and professional growth.”

He added that the event has already led to the formation of new connections, mentorship opportunities and even preliminary talks of future collaborations.

“The NWU has committed to tracking the progress of the featured ventures and spotlighting them through its alumni platforms as part of a broader initiative to support postgraduate success. Special recognition goes to the organising team of the event, Ona, Justin, Mandisa and Pearl, whose exceptional teamwork and enthusiasm were instrumental in delivering a flawless and impactful event,” said Ujeet.

Alumni are encouraged to stay involved through the NWU Alumni Network by mentoring graduates, sponsoring future events, or sharing resources to support future graduates. The success of this event is a powerful reminder that when communities come together with purpose and passion, the results are transformational.

Accounting Career Fair prepares future professionals

BELINDA BANTHAM — Mon, 02 Jun 2025 06:56:15 +0000

Accounting Career Fair prepares future professionals

by Steve Maphakathe

BELINDA BANTHAM Mon, 06/02/2025 - 08:56

In an ongoing effort by the North-West University (NWU) to improve graduate employability, the Career Centre recently hosted a career fair at the Tsebonokeng Hall on the Vanderbijlpark Campus, fostering a strong connection between students and potential employers.

Accounting students on the Vanderbijlpark Campus seized the opportunity to engage with representatives from 13 high-flying organisations, including BKD Auditors, SAICA, SARS, Standard Bank, Nexia SAB&T and Nwanda Incorporated. This strategic engagement served as a stepping stone in preparing the students for the professional landscape by bringing leaders together under one roof. Throughout the fair, representatives from the respective organisations outlined their graduate programmes and identified paths for NWU students to access these career-launching possibilities.

Jan-Hendrick Delport, a partner at BKD Auditors, highlighted their participation in the fair, saying, “We are actively scouting for talented individuals who are interested in our graduate programme after having completed their studies in financial or chartered accountancy.”

He added: “Our three-year training contract offers comprehensive professional development. Once students have demonstrated the necessary competencies and passed their professional examinations, we can accredit them as qualified chartered accountants and assist with their transition into the industry.”

Delport further stated that BKD Auditors is dedicated to giving students quality learning opportunities while they contribute to the firm’s success, resulting in a mutually beneficial relationship that encourages professional progress.

Partnerships to promote excellence

The career fair featured an insightful collaborative interaction between organisational representatives and NWU delegates, focusing on feedback and strategic proposals to boost graduate employability. This session explored how stakeholders may contribute to empower students with the confidence and knowledge required to navigate the competitive job market while learning about the hiring processes.

Prof Linda du Plessis, deputy vice-chancellor for Teaching and Learning, presented a comprehensive overview of the NWU graduate programme and emphasised that the institution should shift its focus to “preparing students not just for a job, but for a career”.

Thoriso Maseng, senior manager at the NWU Career Centre, advocated for improved university-industry collaboration. “Your organisations may help us mould graduates who not only join the

Professor Linda du Plessis advocates for transformative industry collaborations and leading programmes that provide NWU graduates with the professional skills they need to thrive in today's workplaces and uphold the university's reputation for excellence.

Nexia SAB&T actively engaging with NWU students in a way that represents the organisation's core values of community service and professional growth.

Thoriso Maseng, senior manager at the NWU Career Centre, leads an engaging interaction with representatives at the Big Lapa in order to promote academic preparation and career goals.

The Accounting Career Fair was a success, with students actively participating in networking opportunities that could influence their careers in the financial sector.