Recognised as the highest-rated institution in the prestigious PMR.africa Excellence Awards for the Sedibeng District, the North-West University’s (NWU’s) Vanderbijlpark Campus stood out for its excellence and leadership in higher education and corporate governance.
The awards, based on a survey conducted among CEOs, managing directors, business owners, company directors, managers, and senior government officials in the region, celebrate institutions and companies that demonstrate outstanding performance, innovation, and contribution to economic growth. The survey evaluated organisations across key criteria including managerial expertise, corporate governance, brand awareness, and innovation.
The campus achieved an overall rating of 4,20 out of 5,00 in the category of Higher Education/Tertiary Institutions, earning the Diamond Arrow Award for being the highest-rated institution in the Sedibeng District.
In addition, NWU also received the Diamond Arrow Award in the category of Companies/Institutions Demonstrating Exceptional Managerial and Corporate Governance Qualities, with an overall rating of 4,11 out of 5,00. This confirms the university’s reputation as a leader in both education and organisational excellence.
“Being the highest-rated institution in both education and corporate governance highlights the NWU’s dual commitment to academic excellence and to strong, transparent leadership,” said Prof. Jeffrey Mphahlele, deputy vice-chancellor for research and innovation, community engagement and postgraduate studies, with the assigned function of the Vanderbijlpark Campus.
The PMR.africa Excellence Awards have been recognising exceptional organisations for over three decades. With independent research conducted across the Sedibeng District, the awards are widely regarded as a benchmark for quality, leadership, and community impact. Winners are not only celebrated in the annual magazine and digital platform, but also gain visibility across the SADC region, embassies, trade missions, and even doctors’ offices throughout South Africa.
Andiswa Msi, campus chief director, said the recognition speaks to the culture of excellence embedded within the institution.
“These awards celebrate more than our achievements; they reflect a shared commitment to collaboration, innovation, and continuous improvement. They motivate us to keep raising the bar in everything we do.”
The PMR.africa survey is based on the perceptions of industry leaders and government officials who recognise the value of institutions contributing meaningfully to the economic growth, innovation, and governance standards of the Sedibeng District.
“This is a proud moment and a testament to the innovation, professionalism and commitment demonstrated by our staff and students in advancing the university’s mission and vision,” said Silvanus Welcome, director for development and fundraising.
In the back from left are Dr Christiaan Bekker, deputy director of the School of Psychosocial Health, Pola Mmapulana, manager for residence and catering services, and Prof. Mabutho Sibanda, executive dean of the Faculty of Economic and Management Sciences.
In the front from left are Chris Williams, campus director for student life, Ujeet Maharaj, prosecutor and head of Student Judicial Services, Andiswa Msi, campus chief director, Prof. Jeffrey Mphahlele, deputy vice-chancellor for research and innovation, community engagement and postgraduate studies, with the assigned function of the Vanderbijlpark Campus, Silvanus Welcome, director for development and fundraising, and Dr Evalancia Jones, chief director for people and culture.
