Vice-Chancellor

Prof Bismark appointed chairperson of SABS Board

BELINDA BANTHAM — Wed, 25 Jun 2025 10:00:13 +0000

Prof Bismark appointed chairperson of SABS Board

BELINDA BANTHAM Wed, 06/25/2025 - 12:00

He is known for setting the highest standards for himself, and now Prof Bismark Tyobeka, principal and vice-chancellor of the North-West University (NWU), has been entrusted with doing the same for the country. As the newly appointed member and chairperson of the South African Bureau of Standards (SABS), he will steer an institution that plays a critical role in setting and upholding South Africa’s national standards.

SABS was established under the Standards Act (No. 8 of 2008) and is the country’s official standards authority. It plays a pivotal role in ensuring the quality, safety, and competitiveness of products and services. It is responsible for developing, promoting, and maintaining South African national standards, while also providing testing, certification, and technical services to both industry and government. Through its rigorous standardisation and conformity assessment processes, the SABS safeguards consumer interests, supports export readiness, and contributes to broader economic growth. As a custodian of public trust and funding, effective governance of the institution is not only essential, but also imperative.

Prof Tyobeka’s appointment is effective from 18 June 2025, and will run for a five-year term until 17 June 2030, and the announcement was made by the Minister of Trade, Industry and Competition, the Honourable Parks Tau, who commended Prof Tyobeka’s exceptional expertise and leadership in fields critical to the work of the SABS.

“It is my pleasure to appoint you as member and chairperson of the Board of the SABS,” Minister Tau stated in the official letter. “Your appointment is in recognition of your experience and expertise in areas that I believe can contribute to strengthening the work of the SABS.”

This appointment and the scores of others on governing bodies, not only affirms the leadership credentials of Prof Tyobeka, but also highlights the NWU’s broader commitment to national development, good governance and institutional excellence.

Prof Tyobeka accepted the appointment on 23 June 2025, signalling his readiness to contribute to this vital institution. “I am honoured to serve in this capacity,” he said. “The work of the SABS is foundational to our nation’s industrial and economic health, and I look forward to supporting its mandate with diligence and integrity.”

NWU Desmond Tutu School of Medicine cements future with North West Department of Health partnership

BELINDA BANTHAM — Tue, 24 Jun 2025 12:22:55 +0000

NWU Desmond Tutu School of Medicine cements future with North West Department of Health partnership

by Bertie Jacobs

BELINDA BANTHAM Tue, 06/24/2025 - 14:22

The future of the North-West University’s (NWU) Desmond Tutu School of Medicine was further consolidated on Tuesday, 24 June 2025, with the signing of a memorandum of agreement (MoA) between the NWU and the North West Department of Health (NWDoH) on the university’s Potchefstroom Campus.

“It is a privilege to be able to celebrate another milestone in the establishment of our medical school,” said Prof Awie Kotzé, Executive Dean of the Faculty of Health Sciences.

“This strategic partnership with the NWDoH will ensure that our medical students have access to the province’s medical and infrastructural resources while serving the healthcare needs of the region. It has been a long journey to reach this point, and this collaboration promises a long and successful future for the NWU Desmond Tutu School of Medicine.”

Prof Bismark Tyobeka, Principal and Vice-Chancellor of the NWU, officially opened the proceedings by stating: “Let it be recorded in the institutional memory of all our entities that, on this day, we chose collaboration over isolation, foresight over short-sightedness, and service over self. We affirm our mutual dependence and shared destiny.”

Prof Beth Engelbrecht, Governance Lead of the medical school, noted that this date would be remembered as a significant moment in the school’s history.

“Today is a momentous occasion. Thirty years ago, on 24 June 1995, the Springboks won the Rugby World Cup for the first time, and today we are once again making history with the signing of this MoA. Right now, there are Grade 10 learners who will be able to apply for enrolment at the NWU Desmond Tutu School of Medicine in 2028. Isn’t that just so exciting?”

The Department of Health’s Deputy Director-General, Polaki Mokatsane, expressed his gratitude to the key stakeholders who made the occasion possible, saying that the signing of the MoA symbolises a deepening of trust between all parties involved.

“The signing of this MoA will propel the NWDoH and the province forward, and I am thrilled by the opportunities that this partnership will bring,” he said.

The medical school’s project lead, Prof Binu Luke, echoed the sentiments of Archbishop Desmond Tutu, remarking that “healing is not just about science; it is also about the human touch” and that “we must never lose sight of our deep connection to others”.

The MEC for Health in the North West, Sello Lehari, stated that the signing of the MoA marks the formalisation of a shared vision, emphasising the compelling need for a medical school in the province. He described the NWU Desmond Tutu School of Medicine as “a game changer”.

“The medical school will translate research into real-world solutions. It will bring hope, dignity, and the right to quality healthcare to the province.”

NWU Council Chairperson, Bert Sorgdrager, also reflected on a historic moment, saying: “Today, the university and the province crossed an administrative Rubicon. There is no turning back now. Congratulations!”

From culture to collaboration, NWU and UTP lay foundations for strategic partnership

BELINDA BANTHAM — Wed, 18 Jun 2025 06:25:22 +0000

From culture to collaboration, NWU and UTP lay foundations for strategic partnership

by Angeline Marokoane

BELINDA BANTHAM Wed, 06/18/2025 - 08:25

The North-West University (NWU) delegation’s visit to the Universidad Tecnológica del Perú (UTP) on 17 June began with a warm and culturally rich welcome that set the tone for an inspiring day of academic exchange and collaboration.

Upon arrival in Lima’s historic city centre, the NWU delegation was taken on a vibrant walk through the bustling streets of Cercado de Lima, offering a glimpse into the daily rhythm of Peruvian life. This short walk led to the well-known Rovegno restaurant, a local gem where the delegation was treated to an authentic Peruvian culinary experience. They indulged in traditional dishes such as cau cau (a flavourful tripe stew), fresh trout, and mucha puncho, a beloved purple maize juice. This warm and welcoming cultural immersion offered not only a delicious introduction to Peru but also an ideal setting to build early connections with UTP colleagues.

Following lunch, the delegation made their way to UTP’s main campus auditorium, located in the heart of Lima. There, the group was officially welcomed by Dr Jonathan Golergant Niego, Rector of UTP, who expressed his enthusiasm for strengthening academic ties between the two institutions.

UTP is one of Peru’s leading private universities, known for its focus on applied sciences, technological innovation, and industry-aligned education. Its practical, future-focused approach offers valuable insights for NWU, particularly in areas like curriculum design, work-integrated learning, and entrepreneurship development. UTP’s strong relationships with local and international industries ensure that its students are equipped with real-world skills and job market readiness, an area NWU is equally passionate about.

The day continued with focused academic sessions, where faculty members from both institutions broke into smaller groups to exchange knowledge, share institutional overviews, and identify opportunities for future collaboration in key fields such as business, engineering, tourism, and technology, to name a few.

The visit was more than a formal engagement; it was a celebration of shared values, cultural appreciation, and the beginning of what promises to be a dynamic and impactful academic partnership.

NWU strengthens global ties and gathers insight ahead of new medical school launch

BELINDA BANTHAM — Thu, 12 Jun 2025 09:37:26 +0000

NWU strengthens global ties and gathers insight ahead of new medical school launch

by Angeline Marokoane

BELINDA BANTHAM Thu, 06/12/2025 - 11:37

On 10 June 2025, Prof Bismark Tyobeka, principal and vice-chancellor of the North-West University (NWU), arrived in Curitiba, Brazil, alongside a delegation of senior academic staff to formalise a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between the NWU and the Universidade Federal do Paraná (UFPR).

The agreement aims to strengthen collaboration in research, staff development, and the exploration of new academic fields, while also advancing initiatives related to student and staff exchange programmes.

This visit marks the first stop in Prof Tyobeka’s strategic international mission to Brazil and Peru, which runs from 8 to 20 June 2025, and is aimed at building partnerships that will strengthen the NWU’s international collaborations and impact.

Following the MoU signing, Prof Tyobeka was joined by Prof Awie Kotzé, executive dean of the Faculty of Health Sciences, and Prof Binu Luke, project lead for the NWU’s forthcoming Desmond Tutu School of Medicine, on a benchmarking visit to one of Brazil’s most renowned medical institutions – the Clinical Hospital of the Federal University of Paraná (HC-UFPR).

The visit to HC-UFPR, also known as the Hospital Complex of Clinics (CHC) was more than symbolic. It forms part of the NWU’s meticulous preparation for the opening of its own medical school in 2028, a milestone that will significantly shape the university’s health sciences trajectory and contribute meaningfully to public healthcare in South Africa and beyond.

The HC-UFPR, affiliated with UFPR’s School of Medicine, stands as the largest university hospital in the state of Paraná and one of the most prominent in Brazil. With its foundations laid in 1949 and doors officially opened in 1961, the hospital has been a leader in bone marrow transplants and bone banking since 1979.

The HC-UFPR functions as a high-complexity tertiary care and teaching hospital, operating entirely under Brazil’s Unified Health System (SUS). The Clinical Hospital of UFPR (HC‑UFPR) serves as a major referral centre for complex medical cases and as a critical training ground for thousands of undergraduate, graduate, and specialist health professionals.

In celebration of its 62nd anniversary in 2023, HC-UFPR introduced several major upgrades:

· A state-of-the-art simulation centre for practical, hands-on clinical training,

· The Romolo Sandrini Neto Research Centre, and

· Refurbished facilities in key medical departments, including the Cardiology ICU, Nephrology and Surgery Services, and Radiotherapy Unit.

For the NWU delegation, the visit offered an opportunity to learn, reflect, and engage – from observing innovative training methods and modern infrastructure to discussing governance models and healthcare integration with UFPR leadership.

“This visit has been immensely enriching,” said Prof Tyobeka. “The HC-UFPR exemplifies the kind of excellence the NWU aspires to as we prepare to welcome our first cohort of medical students in 2028. Benchmarking against institutions of this calibre is essential to ensure we build a world-class medical school that meets the needs of South Africa.”

Congratulations! Tete Dijana wins Comrades Marathon … again

MARELIZE SANTANA — Sun, 08 Jun 2025 09:36:50 +0000

Congratulations! Tete Dijana wins Comrades Marathon … again

by Bertie Jacobs

MARELIZE SANTANA Sun, 06/08/2025 - 11:36

Comrades Marathon superstar Tete Dijana went supernova on Sunday 8 June when he won his third Comrades Marathon, following back-to-back victories in 2022 and 2023.

Dijana is an employee of Mi7, which is an external security service provider to the North-West University (NWU), and his reassuring presence on the Mahikeng Campus has made him a beloved member of the NWU family.

It was a stellar performance from Dijana who completed the 98.98 km distance from Pietermaritzburg to Durban in a time of five hours, 25 minutes and 28 seconds.

“The NWU is beyond proud of Tete and his remarkable achievement. Last year he struggled with cramps and injury niggles during the up-run from Durban to Pietermaritzburg, where he finished in 14th position, but did he give up? No, he came back stronger than ever which shows his commitment and determination. There are so many lessons for us to not only learn from, but to try to and emulate in Tete’s journey. Congratulations Tete, you are a true ambassador of the NWU and an inspiration to all South Africans,” said Prof Bismark Tyobeka, Principal and Vice-Chancellor of the NWU.

Prof Tyobeka also gave his support and well-wishes to all the staff, alumni, students and friends of the NWU who is competing in the 98th edition of the world’s oldest and most well-known ultramarathon.

NWU strengthens global ties through strategic academic mission to Brazil and Peru

BELINDA BANTHAM — Fri, 06 Jun 2025 06:50:52 +0000

NWU strengthens global ties through strategic academic mission to Brazil and Peru

by Angeline Marokoane

BELINDA BANTHAM Fri, 06/06/2025 - 08:50

The principal and vice-chancellor of the North-West University (NWU), Prof Bismark Tyobeka, will lead a high-level academic delegation on a strategic international mission to Brazil and Peru from 8 to 20 June 2025. The visit forms part of the ongoing efforts by the NWU to deepen international academic collaboration and broaden its global engagement.

During the mission, the NWU delegation will engage in bilateral meetings, knowledge-sharing sessions and strategic planning discussions with key partner institutions in both countries. These engagements will focus on strengthening existing partnerships, exploring new areas for research collaboration and advancing initiatives relating to student and staff exchange programmes.

The institutions to be visited include:

Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais (UFMG) in Belo Horizonte, Brazil
Universidade Federal do Paraná (UFPR) in Curitiba, Brazil
Universidad Peruana Cayetano Heredia (UPCH) in Lima, Peru
Universidad San Ignacio de Loyola (USIL) in Lima, Peru
Universidad Tecnológica del Perú (UTP) in Lima, Peru

These institutions are recognised for their excellence in teaching, research and innovation, and the upcoming engagements are expected to yield mutually beneficial outcomes in areas such as health sciences, engineering, environmental studies, education and the humanities.

Prof Tyobeka emphasised the importance of fostering international partnerships in an increasingly interconnected academic landscape.

“Our visit to Brazil and Peru is a continuation of the commitment of the NWU to positioning itself as a globally engaged and impactful institution. By cultivating strong partnerships with institutions that share our values and aspirations, we not only enrich our academic programmes but also equip our staff and students to contribute meaningfully to global knowledge production and societal development,” he said.

This mission aligns with the NWU’s strategic goal of internationalisation, one of the university’s key pillars for growth and sustainability. Through active collaboration with reputable institutions around the world, the NWU seeks to:

Enhance the quality and relevance of its academic offerings
Foster collaborative, cross-border research initiatives
Promote staff and student mobility opportunities
Contribute to global solutions through knowledge exchange

The delegation will include senior academic leaders, researchers and internationalisation specialists, all of whom will play a vital role in identifying and formalising opportunities for joint degree programmes, research centres of excellence and intercultural learning platforms. As the NWU continues to expand its global footprint, missions such as this underscore the dedication of the university to being a leading African institution with a truly international outlook.

NWU Desmond Tutu School of Medicine breaks new ground

BELINDA BANTHAM — Tue, 03 Jun 2025 11:54:20 +0000

NWU Desmond Tutu School of Medicine breaks new ground

by Bertie Jacobs

BELINDA BANTHAM Tue, 06/03/2025 - 13:54

The countdown has begun. On Tuesday afternoon at precisely 12:46, Prof Bismark Tyobeka, Principal and Vice-Chancellor of the North-West University (NWU), turned the first sod at the Potchefstroom Campus construction site of the NWU Desmond Tutu School of Medicine.

This ceremonial gesture marked the official commencement of construction of South Africa’s 11th medical school, with the first cohort of students expected to enrol in 2028.

With this milestone, the NWU sets a firm course towards addressing the critical shortage of medical practitioners in the North West Province and across the country. It also heralds the start of a journey that will see the university navigate new frontiers in medical education.

“This ceremony marks the symbolic start of construction and the laying of the cornerstone for a bold vision, one that aims to transform lives, uplift communities, and reshape the healthcare landscape of our nation,” said Prof Tyobeka. “It represents the formal launch of a scholarly pursuit of the highest order: the establishment of a premier centre for medical education, research, and professional training.”

The state-of-the-art facility, scheduled for completion in 2027, will serve as a flagship academic and intellectual hub at the university. It will house the foundational years of medical training, eventually expanding to include clinical platforms at Tshepong and Klerksdorp hospitals.

“It is here,” he continued, “that we will shape the minds and characters of future physicians and individuals who will shoulder profound responsibilities with dignity, scientific excellence, and an unwavering commitment to service.”

Prof Tyobeka also expressed gratitude to the university’s government partners, regulatory bodies, the Archbishop Desmond Tutu IP Trust, and local community leadership, whose guidance, support, and faith in the NWU’s vision have been pivotal.

“This is not merely an infrastructure project,” he concluded. “It is a promise to future generations, a commitment to educate, to heal, and to uplift. As we break ground today, let us do so with purpose. And let us always serve with compassion. Thank you, and may the Almighty bless this endeavour and all who contribute to it.”

Future students explore possibilities at open days across campuses

BELINDA BANTHAM — Thu, 29 May 2025 05:20:35 +0000

Future students explore possibilities at open days across campuses BELINDA BANTHAM Thu, 05/29/2025 - 07:20

By Gofaone Motsamai

An air of possibility and curiosity pervaded the campuses of the North-West University (NWU) in May as prospective students, parents and guardians attended a series of Open Day events.

The Mahikeng Campus hosted the first event on 10 May, followed by Potchefstroom on 17 May and Vanderbijlpark on 24 May. Each event offered a glimpse into the academic programmes, student support services and inclusive culture the NWU prides itself on.

Addressing the guests, vice-chancellor Professor Bismark Tyobeka said, “Today marks a significant occasion, not only in our university calendar, but in your personal journeys as well.” He encouraged students to see the NWU as “a place where possibilities begin”, reminding them that the decision to study after school is one of the most important they will ever make.

Throughout the events, student ambassadors guided guests around campus facilities while lecturers answered questions about various fields of study. From engineering and commerce to law, health sciences and the arts, all eight faculties showcased their strengths.

“We combine academic rigour with real-world relevance,” said Prof Tyobeka, adding that the NWU’s programmes are designed to empower students to apply their knowledge and make a lasting impact.

With over 12 905 first-time entering undergraduate students in 2025 and a total enrolment of 58 077, the university’s continued growth affirms its appeal. “These numbers reflect our growth, and the trust that students and their families place in our institution each year,” he said.

The vice-chancellor also highlighted major developments such as the NWU Desmond Tutu School of Medicine, the Veterinary School and the School of Mines and Mining Engineering. “These represent our commitment to changing lives through knowledge, inclusion and innovation.”

As the world faces rapid changes, the NWU is positioning itself to equip students with 21st century skills. “We focus on critical thinking, digital literacy, innovation, collaboration and adaptability,” Prof Tyobeka said.

Parents and learners were visibly impressed by the infrastructure, student support services and warm reception they received. “No matter who you are, where you come from, or what challenges you face — you will find a community here that welcomes you, supports you and helps you grow,” he assured them.

A packed Great Hall on the Mahikeng Campus welcomes enthusiastic prospective students for an engaging Open Day experience.

At Vanderbijlpark Campus was filled with prospective students and their parents, eager to learn more about NWU

NWU Vice-Chancellor, Professor Bismark Tyobeka, shares a moment with future students during the event on the Potchefstroom Campus.

The Potchefstroom Campus was filled with energy and excitement.

NWU and provincial government take hands for a better North West

BELINDA BANTHAM — Fri, 02 May 2025 08:20:30 +0000

NWU and provincial government take hands for a better North West

by Willie du Plessis

BELINDA BANTHAM Fri, 05/02/2025 - 10:20

The North-West University (NWU) and the North West provincial government (NWP) are joining forces to address problems in the province. They signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) on 29 April that will enable cooperation on a host of pressing challenges.

Prof Bismark Tyobeka, NWU principal and vice-chancellor, and Premier Lazarus Mokgosi signed the MoU covering diverse areas of mutual interest and providing a framework for mutual cooperation. This arrangement is valid for a period of five years and will be reviewed after three years to determine its success and to address any implementation challenges.

“Issues of infrastructure, energy, and information and communication technology have taken centre stage in the development of a people,” Prof Tyobeka said at the signing ceremony. “It is rare that one attends a gathering where topics such as artificial intelligence and just energy transition do not feature in one way or another.” He said these are some of the areas where cooperation is essential.

The power of common purpose

Prof Tyobeka referred to the establishment of the Desmond Tutu School of Medicine as a shining example of what is possible when two parties share a common purpose.

“I said during my inauguration as vice-chancellor that one of my key objectives was to ensure a close working relationship between the university, the provincial government and municipalities. We have a singular duty to start charity at home, and although we have carried out our purpose of being a university for the North West in many ways, it is now time for tangible delivery.”

The university has many projects and initiatives that demonstrate its commitment to working with the provincial government and a few exciting new projects are on the horizon, he said. In the pipeline are the School of Mines and Mining Engineering planned in Rustenburg and the School of Veterinary Sciences for Mahikeng.

Premier Mokgosi pointed out that after more than 30 years of democratic freedom and despite efforts by the government, a new wave of challenges has come about to which the academia can make positive and important contributions.

“This university has a central role to play in how we envision the socio-economic prospects of our province. Without the high level of scientific, technical and broad intellectual expertise that the NWU has to offer, we will not be able to achieve the objectives and goals set out in what is called our medium-term development plan, particularly in creating sustainable communities.”

He pointed to challenges such as the very high levels of poverty and unemployment, climate-change-related flooding that has damaged the infrastructure and agriculture of the province, and trade wars that negatively affect mining companies’ spending on their social and labour plans and corporate social investment initiatives.

“Given the enormity of these challenges, research and innovation are critical, particularly in the formulation of policy,” the premier said. “I am confident that collaboration in areas such as agricultural development, water and sanitation, health, artificial intelligence and sport can unlock our full potential in the growth and development of our province.”

The NWU and the NWP have agreed on the following as areas of cooperation:

o Research, science, development and innovation

o Teaching, learning and training development opportunities

o Poverty alleviation projects

o Agricultural development

o Mining and energy

o Water and sanitation

o Tourism

o Financial services

o Logistics

o Artificial intelligence

o Creative industries

o Human security (including energy and food security)

o Engineering

o Health

o Sport

o Job creation and economic development

o Organisational and institutional capacity building

o Indigenous knowledge systems

o Defence

o Science and technology

o Any other areas that the parties may identify and agree upon from time to time

According to the MoU, the NWP will identify priority projects for implementation and provide a favourable environment for cooperation with the university. For its part, the NWU will provide the relevant expertise and cooperate with the NWP to implement the projects. The offices of the vice-chancellor and the premier will be the respective coordinating agents.

The parties will establish a joint project management office with joint responsibilities. Opportunities for collaboration will be mutually agreed upon on a project-by-project basis.

Prof Bismark Tyobeka, principal and vice-chancellor, and Premier Lazarus Mokgosi during the signing of the MoU.

North-West University medical school named the NWU Desmond Tutu School of Medicine

BELINDA BANTHAM — Tue, 22 Apr 2025 13:06:25 +0000

North-West University medical school named the NWU Desmond Tutu School of Medicine

by Bertie Jacobs

BELINDA BANTHAM Tue, 04/22/2025 - 15:06

The North-West University (NWU) is proud to announce that its soon-to-be-established medical school will be honorifically named the NWU Desmond Tutu School of Medicine.

This decision was taken in consultation with – and received the approval of – the Archbishop Desmond Tutu IP Trust.

The official naming ceremony took place on Tuesday, 22 April, at the Capital on the Park Hotel in Sandton. The name was unveiled by Dr Anna Mokgokong, Chancellor of the NWU, Bert Sorgdrager, Chairperson of the NWU Council, Prof Bismark Tyobeka, Principal and Vice-Chancellor of the NWU and Dr Mamphela Ramphele, Chairperson of the Archbishop Desmond Tutu IP Trust.

The illustrious ceremony was further graced by the presence of the Honourable Deputy Minister of Health, Dr Joe Phaahla, Premier of the North West Province, Lazarus Mokgosi, as well as various bishops of the Anglican Church.

Dr Ramphele reminded those in attendance of Archbishop Tutu’s early wish to become a doctor before receiving a higher calling, stating that it is fitting that “Archbishop Desmond Tutu’s name will now live on in every graduate of the NWU Desmond Tutu School of Medicine.”

She also spoke of his unwavering commitment to the spirit of ubuntu.

“It is the obligation of the NWU Desmond Tutu School of Medicine to live up to the values of ubuntu, and it is the responsibility of its students to meet the high standards that Desmond Tutu would have approved of.”

Premier Mokgosi reflected on Archbishop Tutu’s role as a moral compass during the liberation struggle. “His teachings must continue to galvanise and guide us to be solution-driven citizens.”

The NWU Desmond Tutu School of Medicine will be the 11th medical school in South Africa. The project is a collaborative effort between the NWU, the North West Department of Health, and private sector stakeholders. One of its main aims is to address the severe shortage of healthcare practitioners in the province, while providing a base for the growth of the country’s medical expertise.

NWU Chairperson of Council, Bert Sorgdrager, said the decision to name the medical school in honour of the Nobel Peace Prize laureate was made not only to recognise Archbishop Tutu’s lifelong contributions to the country, but also to create an enduring connection between his legacy and the values, character, and graduate attributes the university seeks to instil in future graduates of the NWU Desmond Tutu School of Medicine.

“Desmond Tutu espoused core values that guided his life and work. Central to his philosophy was the belief in every individual's intrinsic worth and dignity, irrespective of race, creed, or background. His commitment to human rights and equality was deeply rooted in the principle of ubuntu, which emphasises interconnectedness, compassion, and the idea that ‘I am because we are’. Desmond Tutu championed non-violence as a means of achieving social and political change, drawing inspiration from his faith. His approach to conflict resolution and reconciliation was grounded in the belief that forgiveness and understanding could overcome deep-seated divisions.”

Dr Mokgokong highlighted South Africa’s current doctor-to-patient ratio, which stands at approximately 0.31 doctors per 1,000 people, and a nurse-to-patient ratio of about 4.59 nurses per 1,000. She noted that these, among other urgent healthcare challenges, are what the NWU Desmond Tutu School of Medicine aims to address.

“We are not merely building a school of bricks and mortar, we are laying the foundation for something much greater and more enduring. Today we open doors that will never close. Doors of opportunity, healing, compassion, and transformation. That is also why we have chosen the name of Archbishop Desmond Tutu. He was not only a man of faith and moral courage, but also a fierce advocate for justice, equality, and human dignity. He understood, better than most, that the essence of humanity lies in our capacity to care, to heal, and to uplift one another. His life’s work taught us that no barrier is too great, no injustice too entrenched, and no dream too distant to be realised through perseverance and unity,” she said.

Prof Tyobeka added that the future of medicine is interconnected, and that the NWU Desmond Tutu School of Medicine will play a vital role in shaping it.

“At the foundation of this medical school stand three unwavering pillars: undergraduate and postgraduate training, research, and engaged scholarship. Through world-class education via the MBChB and MMed degrees, we will nurture the next generation of medical professionals. Through rigorous research, we will push the boundaries of medical science and discovery. Through engaged scholarship, we will ensure that our knowledge does not remain confined within academic walls, but actively uplifts communities and strengthens health systems in the North West province and across South Africa. These pillars are not merely conceptual; they are commitments that will define our impact. Now that the NWU has a medical school, we stand at the threshold of exciting global opportunities. Medical education thrives on collaboration across borders, and we intend to establish international partnerships with leading medical schools and research institutions.”

The first intake of students for the NWU Desmond Tutu School of Medicine is scheduled for 2028.