On Saturday, 12 April 2025, Sol Plaatje University (SPU) hosted its annual Open Day for high school learners, their families, school principals and teachers. The day began with the Vice-Chancellor’s Breakfast for School Principals which was live streamed to satellite venues in Colesberg, Calvinia, Upington, and Springbok.
The breakfast created a platform for dialogue between school principals, teachers, donors, and university partners. SPU Vice-Chancellor and Principal, Prof Andrew Crouch, noted: “Our focus at SPU is clear. We are intentionally targeting the best talent from schools across the Northern Cape but we cannot do this alone. It takes a community to engage in meaningful dialogue, and it requires strong, sustained partnerships with municipalities, government, NGOs, the private sector and TVET colleges.”
Prof Crouch also shared feedback received during his visits to schools across the province, where they consistently called on him to “please send us more teachers.” These requests reflect SPU’s growing reputation for producing capable, community-focused educators. It is evident that SPU graduates are returning to their communities and making a difference.
Following the breakfast, over 1 500 learners gathered at SPU’s Central Campus Square for the Open Day activities. In his welcome address, the Vice-Chancellor encouraged learners to make the most of the day by engaging with staff at exhibition areas, learning about academic programmes, seeking advice on financial aid and exploring our vibrant student life. He also urged family members to take the opportunity to ask questions and gain clarity on career options for their children.
Each faculty brought its programmes to life through engaging, hands-on exhibitions. The Faculty of Humanities displayed historical artefacts in partnership with the McGregor Museum. The Faculty of Natural and Applied Sciences invited learners to conduct experiments in their labs and took them on tours of the new Agriculture and Environmental Sciences building. The Faculty of Economic and Management Sciences showcased its academic offerings through interactive displays and classroom walkabouts, while the Faculty of Education created vibrant learning hubs with activities in science, languages, history, and economics aimed at inspiring future educators.
Support departments also contributed to the day’s success where the Library showcased student success resources; and through fun and interactive games, prospective students got a glimpse into how the Centre for Teaching, Learning, and Programme Development will help them to succeed academically through study strategies, academic skills support and digital learning tools. The Division of Student Affairs presented its health and wellness offerings, sporting excellence, student clubs and campus housing services. Learners also had the opportunity to interact with staff from the Finance and Admissions teams for guidance on applications, bursaries and managing student finances.
By offering learners a chance to explore academic opportunities in a dynamic, welcoming environment, SPU continues to position itself as a university of choice for those seeking meaningful, life-changing futures.
