SPU was pleased to welcome His Excellency, Ambassador Rui Orlando Xavier, alongside De Beers Chief Executive Officer Managed Operations, Mr Moses Madondo, and an esteemed delegation from Angola on Tuesday, 29 October 2024, during their visit to Kimberley.
The delegation met with SPU’s Senior Management Team at the Harry Oppenheimer House, a landmark gifted to SPU by De Beers in 2023. This meeting provided a platform for SPU to explore continued partnership opportunities with De Beers, focusing on legacy projects and broader endeavours for the Northern Cape. Additionally, the visit served as an introduction to potential future collaboration with the Angolan Embassy in advancing educational, sustainable, and inclusive projects.
Professor Debra Meyer, SPU’s Deputy Vice-Chancellor: Research, Innovation and Postgraduate Studies, delivered a presentation on the university’s progress, notable achievements, and ongoing development. Her presentation underscored SPU’s position as a university of choice for prospective students while outlining the university’s future strategic initiatives aimed at driving impactful growth.
In his remarks, Ambassador Rui Xavier extended his gratitude to SPU’s Senior Management Team for hosting the delegation, affirming the importance of fostering strategic partnerships that align with shared objectives. He highlighted the embassy’s interest in building a strong, mutually beneficial relationship with SPU and South Africa at large.
Mr Moses Madondo, reflecting on the enduring relationship between SPU and De Beers, emphasised the longstanding commitment to the development of Kimberley and the Northern Cape. Expressing his delight with SPU’s progress, he encouraged ongoing collaboration and celebrated SPU’s continued strides of excellence.
The university is honoured to have hosted Ambassador Xavier and his delegation and looks forward to the initiatives that will benefit both the SPU community and the broader region.