The NWU’s academic year is fast moving to a successful conclusion. Given what we have experienced in the past and what again occurred at other universities during the past few months, we are most thankful that we could complete our various activities without interruptions.

A few words of thanks are in order – first, to our student leaders who kept their eye on the ball and led our students responsibly. Second, to academic staff who kept their focus on our core activities: teaching and learning, research and community engagement. Third, our committed professional and support staff who kept the wheels rolling admirably. We appreciate your contributions!

I know that it was a difficult year, not so much as a result of the official change of structure on 1 July, but due to the time it is taking to put all structures and managers in place.

Fortunately we are ending the year on a high note. Various senior appointments have been made recently and one of our alumni, Demi-Leigh Nel-Peters, was crowned Miss Universe. To top it all, we started rolling out the implementation of our new corporate colour. In 2018 the new branding will be rolled out on all our campuses and the NWU will soon be identified with purple, a vibrant and royal colour.

I sincerely thank all of you who are actively making our new strategy and structure work by being focused, committed and positive.