Learners flock to open day of ‘cool’ Northern Cape university

The Sol Plaatje University (SPU) in Kimberley, celebrating its tenth anniversary this year, secured a spot among the top ten coolest universities, according to the 2023 Sunday Times GenNext Awards.

The coolest brands, according to South Africa’s youth, were announced at the 19th annual GenNext Awards ceremony in September.

This survey is considered the leading barometer of what South Africa’s youth find on-trend and inspirational, and delivers insights that are valued by brand management as well as advertising and marketing professionals.

A member of the cheer leaders showing her skills.

Photo: Helena Barnard

“Africa has the youngest population in the world. Clearly, understanding the brand decisions of the youth will be critical to future business success,” says Pule Molebeledi, acting chief executive officer (CEO) at Arena Holdings, which owns and manages the Sunday Times GenNext brand.

Fuelling the future

Earlier in April, future “Gemmies” – after the SPU’s mascot which represents a gemsbok – got a glimpse into student life at the SPU Open Day.

On the day, high school learners explored the university’s state-of-the-art laboratories, classrooms, and digital library, which provided a glimpse into the vibrant academic life on offer.

The open day commenced with the Vice-Chancellor’s Breakfast, where high school principals from across the Northern Cape engaged with the university leadership.

Gr. 9 to Gr. 12 learners visiting the Sol Plaatje University’s Open Day.

Photo: Helena Barnard

“We have broadened the SPU’s presence in regions such as Upington, Carnarvon, Postmasburg, De Aar, Colesberg, Alexander Bay, Port Nolloth, Springbok, and Pofadder as part of our commitment to knowledge creation and social justice,” said Prof. Andrew Crouch, the SPU’s vice-chancellor, and principal.

During the open day, learners found out more about the SPU’s niche programmes such as Data Science, Agriculture, Heritage Studies, Court Interpreting, Creative Writing, Teacher Education, and Entrepreneurship.

Staff also answered questions about financial aid, bursaries, scholarships, and programme choices, all in a bid to empower informed decision-making.

The Sol Plaatje University, with its modern campus and indigenous trees, is still expanding.

Photo: Helena Barnard

SPU’s decade of excellence

The SPU has achieved remarkable growth in its first decade; graduating its first masters degree graduates in 2023, and launching four new research centres in three years.

On Saturday, 20 April, the SPU will host its largest graduation ceremony to date, with more than 800 undergraduate and postgraduate students who will be receiving their qualifications at the Mittah Seperepere Convention Centre.

The Sol Plaatje University is celebrating its tenth anniversary this year.

This year’s ceremony will again feature two sessions: the first at 09:00, dedicated to the Faculties of Economic and Management Sciences, Humanities, and Natural and Applied Sciences, and the second at 14:00, celebrates graduands from the Faculty of Education.

This ninth graduation ceremony coincides with the tenth anniversary of the SPU, making it two milestone events in SPU’s history.