On 24 July 2024, The Roots Lifestyle Venue in Potchefstroom was alive with activity as the principal and vice-chancellor of the North-West University (NWU), Prof Bismark Tyobeka, hosted an important business breakfast.

The event was attended by key figures from the university and the local business community, symbolising the strong and growing bond between these two pillars of regional development.

The morning's proceedings began with an opening and welcoming address by Prof Daryl Balia, deputy vice-chancellor for information technology and Potchefstroom Campus operations.

Mr Clement Manoko, executive director for corporate relations and marketing, skilfully managed the programme, ensuring a smooth flow of the proceedings.

The highlight of the morning was the insightful presentation by Prof Tyobeka. He expressed his heartfelt appreciation for the turnout from the local business stakeholders.

"It is quite heartwarming to see that our local business stakeholders came in numbers for this important engagement, aimed to discuss and reinforce the bonds between the NWU and the Potchefstroom business community."

Prof Tyobeka's presentation was both a reflection on the university's achievements and a vision for its future. He emphasised the significance of this breakfast meeting as a platform to share the progress made by the NWU on various ongoing initiatives and future aspirations. He also highlighted the importance of partnerships with local businesses in driving economic growth and improving community welfare.

Among the strategic projects highlighted by Prof Tyobeka were the following:

1. The establishment of a Medical School: This ambitious project aims to enhance the university's educational offerings and address critical healthcare needs in the region.
2. NWU Enterprises: Soon to be launched, this initiative represents a significant development in diversifying the NWU's income streams and creating new opportunities for collaboration with the business community.
3. Veterinary Sciences: The University in partnership with the North West provincial Department of Agriculture and Rural Development is working towards the establishment of the veterinary sciences. This is to provide support to local farmers and improve animal healthcare and welfare.
4. School of Mines and Mining Engineering: The NWU is also accelerating its efforts towards realizing the School of Mines and Mining Engineering.

Concluding his presentation, Prof Tyobeka conveyed the university’s gratitude. "On behalf of the NWU, I extend our sincere gratitude to the business community of Potchefstroom for your continued support. Each year, thousands of learners, prospective students, current students, parents and alumni visit our institution. You warmly welcome them and provide that special Potchefstroom hospitality, ensuring they return year after year."

As last remark he highlighted the importance of fostering stronger relationships and partnerships with local stakeholders to meet growing demands.

"Despite our facilities, we cannot meet all the demands alone. Let us join hands to expand our efforts, not only for Potchefstroom but for the North West province and the country as a whole. We have been and will continue to be economic partners in promoting growth. We value the partnership with our local business leaders and community members and look forward to continued collaboration that drives our mutual success."

The business breakfast was a demonstration of the commitment of the ongoing collaboration between the NWU and the Potchefstroom business community. The shared commitment to growth, innovation, and community welfare is poised to drive the region towards a prosperous and sustainable future.

The business breakfast was a demonstration of the commitment of the ongoing collaboration between the NWU and the Potchefstroom business community.