Opening ceremonies
mark the start of a new academic year
In February, the NWU’s three campuses were officially opened for the new academic year.
Official opening: Vaal Triangle Campus
Official opening: Potchefstroom Campus
“It has always been my objective that we must re-imagine our university so as to become an institution where everyone, from whatever language, race, culture or social background, should feel welcome on every one of our campuses. This is the point of being a unitary institution and is at the heart of our identity.”
The opening ceremonies of the Potchefstroom, Vaal Triangle and Mafikeng campuses took place respectively on 2, 10 and 11 February, a few days after classes commenced on the three campuses.
Prof Dan Kgwadi, vice-chancellor, said that the NWU welcomed more than 9 000 new students.
“While growing numbers alone can never be the prime indicator of quality or success, it is a sign that the NWU is a destination of choice for many school leavers.
“We continue to welcome students from all communities, language groups and religious convictions.”
He said the NWU’s total headcount grew to 75 000 in 2015 and it is conservatively estimated to grow by 1,5% a year between 2017 and 2030.
Prof Dan said that substantial progress has been made in positioning the university to tackle the challenges ahead.
“We have a new strategy and new structure-in-the-making, as adopted by Council at the end of last year. The strategy and structure plan is very clear on questions of inclusivity, unity and quality.”
He says the really difficult phase of implementation has now commenced. The strategy will be implemented by means of the five and 10-year strategic plan and the Annual Performance Plan, which replaces what used to be referred to as the Institutional Plan.
Official opening: Mafikeng Campus
He emphasised that in accordance with the official language policy, institutional management has decided to extend the level of parallel-medium classes on the Potchefstroom Campus. “This is a step on the path to make the NWU more inclusive,” he said.
“Recent budgetary constraints have forced us to cut back on some infrastructural development, but we will continue to redress historical imbalances and accelerate equity of provision on all our campuses
to ensure that the student experience is equivalent and that quality outcomes are assured.”
Prof Dan encouraged staff to embrace change. “Not only because it is the right thing to do, but also because this is a vital requisite to help ensure the long-term survival and growth of our university. Without change we are doomed.” He concluded by wishing everyone a happy and successful 2016.
