Sol Plaatje University (SPU) has celebrated a landmark achievement as its Women’s Rugby Team emerged unbeaten champions of the 2026 USSA Rugby Women’s B Division Championship, earning promotion to the prestigious Varsity Cup competition in 2027. Hosted by Nelson Mandela
The Africa World Heritage Fund, the African Union and UNESCO have recognised Chancellor Thebe Ikalafeng for his commitment to preserving and promoting African heritage. Sol Plaatje University (SPU) Chancellor Thebe Ikalafeng has been recognised as an African Heritage Champion by
Ms Bongiwe Nqobile Mabhena, has excelled; her team secured first place at the Wetskills South Africa programme held from 12 to 24 July 2026. The Wetskills programme is a prestigious innovation workshop focused on addressing critical water challenges. Originally from
The Science-for-the-Future project at Sol Plaatje University’s (SPU) Faculty of Education continues to strengthen mathematics and science education through sustained professional development and collaboration with teachers across the Northern Cape. Now in its sixth year, the project is a collaborative
Sol Plaatje University (SPU) welcomed higher education operations leaders, facilities management professionals, and infrastructure experts from across Southern Africa for the 5th Higher Education Facilities Management Association (HEFMA) Chief Operations Officers (COO) Forum, held on 6 and 7 August 2026.
Enactus Sol Plaatje University (SPU) is celebrating a significant milestone after Team Aletra advanced as a Top 15 Finalist in the 2026 MTN Enactus Digital Innovation Challenge, held on 23 July 2026. Each year, Enactus-affiliated teams compete at the Enactus
Sol Plaatje University (SPU) recently hosted a delegation from the National Research Foundation (NRF), the Department of Science, Technology and Innovation (DSTI), and the Centre of Excellence in Indigenous Knowledge Systems (CoE-IKS) as part of national consultations on the proposed
The Faculty of Economic and Management Sciences invites applications for a Postdoctoral Research Fellowship for the 2026–2027 academic period. Postdoctoral fellows form an integral part of SPU’s research endeavours, and strengthening the University’s research standing depends on attracting and supporting
Professor Dipane Hlalele, Dean of the Faculty of Education at Sol Plaatje University (SPU), has again been ranked among the Top 100 education scientists in South Africa in the AD Scientific Index 2026, released on 22 July 2026. It is
The Centre for Teaching, Learning and Programme Development (CTLPD) at Sol Plaatje University (SPU) has introduced an enhanced academic induction programme for newly appointed academics, moving from a short workshop to a structured five-month period of orientation and professional development,
According to the historical record, in September 1976, three months after Soweto rose, more than five hundred schoolchildren from St Boniface, Tshireleco and Barkley Road High marched on the Transvaal Road police station, and for three days police answered them
This is the question Sol Plaatje University (SPU) will place at the centre of a new research agenda on Friday, 31 July 2026. At 16:00, the University will host the Inaugural Lecture and Launch of the DSTI-NRF South African Research
Professor Ramos Emmanuel Mabugu, Professor of Economics in the Faculty of Economic and Management Sciences examines one of Africa’s most pressing challenges – youth unemployment – in his latest article, Training young people for jobs: insights from 9 African countries
Sol Plaatje University (SPU) hosted the launch of Professor Saleem Badat’s book, Roads to Rhodes University and Beyond: Adventures in Knowledge and Activism, on 6 July 2026. The event brought together staff, students, scholars and members of the public for a
In honour of Nelson Mandela Day 2026, Sol Plaatje University, through the Human Resources Department in collaboration with the Student Wellness Unit, visited the National Association of the Blind and the Women to Women Centre on Friday, 17 July 2026.
The Sol Plaatje University (SPU) Student Women Economic Empowerment (SWEEP) Chapter, led by Coordinator Dr Gail Motlhaudi-Banda and Mr Chad Lucas, accompanied by its Student Executive Committee (Ms Zanele Matole, Ms Shu-Rayda Engelbrecht, Ms Onaka Mshuqwana, Ms Neo Tapala, Ms
Sol Plaatje University (SPU) hosted its inaugural Digital Learning & Innovation Day on Friday, 10 July 2026, bringing academic staff together to reflect on innovation, digital pedagogy and the future of teaching and learning at the University. Hosted by the
University World News, the leading global publication on higher education, has published a feature in its Transformative Leadership series on Sol Plaatje University’s next chapter, in an interview with our Vice-Chancellor and Principal, Professor Debra Meyer. Titled “Creating opportunities for
Sol Plaatje University (SPU) student Thandeka Tembo, a Bachelor of Education honours student, is the first SPU student to be selected as a Siyaphumelela DREAM Scholar. She is one of eight students from universities across South Africa chosen as 2026
Following successful launches at Rhodes University and the University of Cape Town, Sol Plaatje University is honoured to host the launch of Roads to Rhodes University and Beyond: Adventures in Knowledge and Activism by Saleem Badat. Blending memoir, critical reflection
The Sol Plaatje University Centre for Global Change (CGC) will host its 2026 Sustainability and Resilience Symposium as part of Arbor Week, bringing together researchers, industry experts, practitioners and students to explore innovative responses to some of the world’s most
On behalf of the Council, Senate, Management, Staff and Students of Sol Plaatje University, I extend our heartfelt condolences on the passing of Professor Tandi Matsha-Erasmus, Vice-Chancellor and Principal of Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University (SMU). Professor Matsha-Erasmus was a
Sol Plaatje University (SPU) congratulates Professor Dipane Hlalele, Dean of the Faculty of Education, on his appointment to the 7th Umalusi Council for General and Further Education and Training. He was appointed by the Minister of Basic Education, Ms Siviwe
Sol Plaatje University recently hosted its annual Employee Wellness Day under the theme Prioritising Employee Wellness and Advancing Excellence, bringing staff together to focus on an essential aspect of the University’s work: the wellbeing of the people who contribute to
Sol Plaatje University wishes to inform prospective students and members of the public that the online application system is currently unavailable due to a technical issue. The University is working to restore the service as soon as possible and apologises
On Thursday, 11 June 2026, Sol Plaatje University’s (SPU) Centre for the Advancement of Rural and Inclusive Education Research (CARIER) hosted a thought-provoking public lecture that challenged conventional understandings of learning and highlighted the value of rural contexts in shaping
The Faculty of Education invites applications for the following Postdoctoral Research Fellowship opportunities: Postdoctoral Research Fellowship in History Education Reference: PDRF/03/2026 Closing date: 30 June 2026 View detailed requirements and application procedure here. Postdoctoral Research Fellowship in STEM Education Mathematics
Sol Plaatje University (SPU) is the first and only university in South Africa to hold a New Generation of Academics Programme (nGAP) post in South African Sign Language (SASL), as confirmed by the Department of Higher Education and Training (DHET).
Sol Plaatje University (SPU) Faculty of Education hosted a Postgraduate Indaba on 19 May 2026 to strengthen postgraduate supervision capacity and support the Faculty’s growing research pipeline. The session focused on practical approaches to Honours and Master’s supervision, including supervision
Sol Plaatje University invites applications for the following Postdoctoral Research Fellowship opportunities. The fellowships are aimed at supporting early-career scholars and advancing research excellence within the University. Available opportunities: Postdoctoral Research Fellowship in Interprofessional Education, Leadership and Health Professions EducationOffered
SPU’s Research Office seeks applications for two exciting and dynamic postdoctoral research fellowships for 2026-2027. Postdoctoral Research Fellowship opportunities are available in the Renewable and Sustainable Energy Research (RaSER) Centre (PDRF/01/2026). Postdoctoral fellows form an integral part of SPU’s research activities and contribute significantly to the University’s
We are delighted to inform you that Sol Plaatje University (SPU) will be hosting the Universities South Africa (USAf) Employee Relations Forum on 4 – 5 June 2026 at the South Campus. The USAf Employee Relations Forum is a highly regarded community of
Sol Plaatje University (SPU), through its Faculty of Education, will host the 40th Annual Conference of the South African Society for History Teaching (SASHT) from 30 September to 2 October 2026 in Kimberley. The conference will be held under the
A historic academic ceremony marks a new chapter for the young Northern Cape university, anchored in scholarship, institutional autonomy, and a renewed commitment to the transformative power of higher education. Sol Plaatje University (SPU) formally installed Professor Debra Meyer as
On 8 April 2026, Sol Plaatje University (SPU) hosted its inaugural Dean’s Merit Awards Ceremony, bringing together students, academic leadership, faculty and administrative staff in recognition of outstanding academic performance across faculties. The awards were introduced to publicly recognise top-performing
Sol Plaatje University notes the circulation of a poster claiming that a case of Hantavirus has been confirmed at the University in Kimberley. The University confirms that this poster is fake news and was not issued by Sol Plaatje University or
Sol Plaatje University hosted a vibrant World Intellectual Property Day (WIPD) celebration on 5 May 2026 at the South Campus Multi-purpose Hall, bringing together students, academics, and industry stakeholders under the global theme “IP and Sports: Ready, Set, Innovate!”. The
The Faculty of Humanities at Sol Plaatje University (SPU) recently hosted a public lecture by distinguished academic and higher education thought leader, Professor Jonathan Jansen of Stellenbosch University, under the theme Why South African Universities Fail: Reflections on Institutional Capture
Sol Plaatje University (SPU) hosted the South African Institute of Chartered Accountants (SAICA) Business Development Games on 25 April 2026, bringing together more than 100 BCom Accounting students enrolled in the programme for an immersive, practice-oriented learning experience. Using the
Sol Plaatje University (SPU) notes with pride the appointment of its Chief Financial Officer, Ms Annalene Marais, to the National Council of the South African Institute of Chartered Accountants (SAICA). The SAICA National Council, established under the Institute’s revised Constitution,
Open Day 2026 What does your future look like? At Sol Plaatje University (SPU), we believe it is shaped by the choices you make today. It begins with the decision to step forward, explore your potential, and pursue an education
For Awonke Nomandondo, graduating with a Bachelor of Science Honours in Data Science at Sol Plaatje University (SPU) is more than an academic milestone. It is a deeply personal journey shaped by curiosity, resilience and purpose, and a reflection of
For Martha Kegomoditswe Moholoagae, graduating with a Diploma in Retail Business Management marks more than the completion of a qualification. It reflects a journey of growth, discipline and perseverance, supported every step of the way through the academic and student
Sol Plaatje University (SPU) will confer qualifications on more than 1,500 graduates during its 11th graduation ceremonies, reflecting continued institutional growth in teaching and learning, student success, and academic delivery. The Class of 2025 comprises graduates across all four faculties:
Gloria Pucoe, who is completing her MSc in eScience at Sol Plaatje University (SPU), has been recognised as a finalist in the Rising Star: AI and Data Innovation category at the 2026 Wired4Women Awards, with winners to be announced on
Image source: Toyin Falola Network An article by Prof Toyin Falola reflects on the appointment of Thebe Ikalafeng as Chancellor of Sol Plaatje University, offering an external perspective on his leadership profile and broader influence. The piece highlights his contribution to shaping Africa’s global
The South African Reserve Bank’s (SARB) Economic Research Department recently visited Sol Plaatje University (SPU) as part of its ongoing public outreach programme, engaging directly with Economics postgraduate and third-year students, as well as academic staff within the Faculty of
Sol Plaatje University Chancellor, Thebe Ikalafeng, was interviewed on SABC News following his appointment to a five-year term as the second Chancellor of Sol Plaatje University. In the interview, he outlines his vision for the institution and reflects on its
The SPU Library and Information Services invite applications for four Student Assistant positions to support evening operations in the library. This opportunity is ideal for postgraduate students who would like to gain practical work experience while contributing to student support services on campus. Requirements Applicants must: Be
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE 27 March 2026 THEBE IKALAFENG INAURATED NEW CHANCELLOR OF SPU IN CEREMONY ANCHORED IN THE LEGACY OF SOLOMON PLAATJE KIMBERLEY, NORTHERN CAPE – Sol Plaatje University (SPU) formally inaugurated its second Chancellor, Thebe Ikalafeng, in a ceremony
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE23 March 2026 Sol Plaatje University to host landmark investiture of Thebe Ikalafeng rooted in African tradition, heritage and the values of Solomon Tshekisho Plaatje. KIMBERLEY, NORTHERN CAPE – Sol Plaatje University is set to host landmark investiture
The Manager for Communication and Marketing at SPU, Ms Mosima Mehlape, has been appointed to the Board of Directors of the Marketing, Advancement and Communication in Education (MACE). MACE is the national professional body for marketing, advancement and communication in
Sol Plaatje University (SPU) has reached a significant research milestone with the appointment of Professor Boitumelo Diale as the University’s first holder of a South African Research Chairs Initiative (SARChI) Chair in Inclusive Rural Education and Early Childhood Development. As Professor
Sol Plaatje University Vice-Chancellor and Principal, Professor Debra Meyer, has been featured in a public mural in Eldorado Park, south-west of Johannesburg, as part of a community-led initiative recognising individuals who contribute meaningfully to society. The mural forms part of
SPU announces the appointment of Professor Dipane Hlalele as Dean of the Faculty of Education for a five-year term, starting 1 April 2026. This appointment follows a rigorous selection process, guided by university policy and aligned with SPU’s strategic priorities in academic
Students and lecturers at Sol Plaatje University (SPU) recently marked the International Day of Mathematics on Friday, 13 March, through a series of interactive activities that brought together participants from across academic programmes. The celebration, organised by the Mathematics Education
On 28 February 2026, South Campus Precinct became a gathering point for the SPU community as students, staff and members of the community came together for Sol Plaatje University’s 4th annual Community Big Walk. The event reflected a shared commitment
Sol Plaatje University, in partnership with the Teemaneng Running Club and the Faculty of Humanities, will host the Phakamile Mabija Public Lecture on Wednesday, 11 March 2026. The lecture will be delivered by General Setsi Motlharemang Dipone, a former political prisoner,
Our Gemmies play at home this Friday night, 20 February, following a demanding start to the 2026 FNB Varsity Shield tournament. In the season opener, FNB UKZN struck early to take a 5 – 0 lead before FNB SPU responded
Following an urgent request by the Student Representative Council (SRC), the University Management met with the SRC on Monday, 16 February 2026, to address matters relating to student financial appeals, allowances, and the resumption of academic activities following student protests
As SPU prepares to face the University of KwaZulu Natal in their opening FNB Varsity Shield 2026 fixture, captain Jan Potgieter steps into the new campaign carrying both experience and history. Last season marked SPU’s debut in the Varsity Shield
Sol Plaatje University (SPU) invites the Kimberley community, families, staff and students to join the SPU Community Big Walk on Saturday, 28 February 2026. This family-centred experience promotes wellness, dignity and a strong sense of belonging. For students, especially our
Sol Plaatje University (SPU) formally marked the start of the FNB Varsity Shield Rugby 2026 season with a jersey handover and institutional send-off for the SPU Varsity Shield Rugby Team on Saturday, 7 February. Held following the Vice-Chancellor’s Official Welcome
Sol Plaatje University (SPU) formally welcomed its first-time entering students for the 2026 academic year on Saturday, 7 February, at the Vice-Chancellor’s Official Welcome Ceremony held in the SPU Great Hall, alongside the university’s senior executive leadership. Addressing students, parents
Sol Plaatje University (SPU) will officially welcome the Class of 2026, comprising more than 2 200 first-year students, at the Vice-Chancellor’s Welcome Ceremony for first-time entering students, marking the formal commencement of the 2026 academic year. The ceremony constitutes the
Sol Plaatje University has announced the appointment of Thebe Ikalafeng as its next Chancellor, with effect from 16 January 2026. The appointment, confirmed by the University Council, is for a five-year term in accordance with the University Statute. Announcing the
Sol Plaatje University (SPU) has reached an important academic milestone following the professional endorsement of its Bachelor of Commerce in Accounting by leading accounting bodies in the country, namely the South African Institute of Professional Accountants (SAIPA) and the South
Esteemed colleagues, dedicated staff, current and aspiring students of Sol Plaatje University, welcome. It is with immense gratitude that I take the opportunity today as the new Vice-Chancellor and Principal, at the dawn of both my term and a promising
Sol Plaatje University (SPU) hosted the Vice-Chancellor’s Excellence and Long Service Awards on Monday, 8 December, honouring staff whose exceptional work, dedication and achievements give living expression to the University’s mission. Their contributions uphold SPU’s commitment to delivering high quality
Sol Plaatje University invites eligible students to apply for the Postgraduate Merit Award bursary for the 2026 academic year. This bursary provides financial support to full time Postgraduate Diploma, Honours and Master’s students who demonstrate exceptional academic performance and are
As we close off the national 16 Days of Activism, Sol Plaatje University will mark this moment with the relaunch of its Gender-Based Violence Safety and Reporting Desk. This relaunch reinforces the University’s commitment to building a campus environment rooted
Sol Plaatje University (SPU) invites applications for the 2026 Oppenheimer Memorial Trust Scholarships, available to first-time, full-time Honours students. This opportunity is open to all prospective and current students who wish to pursue their Honours degree at SPU and who
We bring you the final feature in our Postdoctoral Fellows Up Close Series, highlighting scholars from the Faculty of Natural and Applied Sciences whose work advances materials innovation, environmental sustainability and the application of artificial intelligence to real world challenges.
Today’s Postdoctoral Fellows Up Close feature introduces a group of scholars whose work spans a rich range of research fields, from error control coding and rural education to climate smart food systems and sustainable environmental chemistry. Their collective contributions illustrate
Sol Plaatje University (SPU) will relaunch its Gender-Based Violence (GBV) Safety and Reporting Desk on 10 December, strengthening visibility and access to year-round support for staff and students. While the relaunch coincides with the national 16 Days of Activism for
Our Postdoctoral Fellows Up Close series continues today with four scholars whose research showcases the range and richness of SPU’s academic work. From understanding communities and cultures to advancing technology based learning and modelling biological systems, these Fellows demonstrate how
The Faculty of Education at Sol Plaatje University (SPU) invites applications for two prestigious Postdoctoral Research Fellowships, commencing in February 2026. These fellowships form part of SPU’s commitment to advancing research excellence, developing early-career scholars, and strengthening academic leadership across
As we reach the end of 2025, I extend my sincere appreciation to the SPU community for the support, dedication and care you have shown throughout the year. As a university that carries the name of Solomon Tshekisho Plaatje, our
SPU’s Postdoctoral Fellows Up Close series brings our emerging scholars into focus, highlighting the work that strengthens our research identity and contributes to the development needs of the Northern Cape. These researchers are advancing important questions, applying rigorous methodologies and
It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Ms Jennifer (“Jenny”) Glennie, a remarkable woman who dedicated her life to opening access to quality education at all levels for marginalised communities in South Africa. We extend our
Research is one of the most powerful ways a university contributes to society and today we continue our Postdoctoral Fellows Up Close series by spotlighting the scholars who carry that responsibility with distinction. Our Postdoctoral Research Fellows are not only
Call for applications: Postdoctoral Research Fellowships in the Faculty of Economic and Management Sciences SPU’s Faculty of Economic and Management Sciences invites applications for Postdoctoral Research Fellowships for 2026 to 2027. This opportunity supports our commitment to research excellence and
We are pleased to introduce Postdoctoral Fellows Up Close, a short feature series that brings you closer to the scholars who are shaping SPU’s growing research identity. Postdoctoral Fellows are an essential part of our academic enterprise. Their work strengthens
SPU gathered as a community on Saturday, 29 November 2025 for the annual Vice Chancellor’s Family Fun Day, a celebration that carried special meaning this year as it marked Professor Andrew Crouch’s final Family Fun Day as Vice-Chancellor and Principal.
On 28 November 2025, the Department of Higher Education and Training (DHET) visited Sol Plaatje University (SPU) as part of a monitoring site visit for the University Capacity Development Programme (UCDP). The programme strengthens the higher education sector by advancing
Sol Plaatje University’s (SPU) second Vice-Chancellor and Principal, Professor Andrew Crouch, was celebrated and honoured at a ceremony on 26 November 2025, that marked the end of his tenure at the University. The Chair of Council Professor Randall Carolissen paid
As the country marks the start of the 16 Days of Activism for No Violence Against Women and Children Campaign, Sol Plaatje University (SPU) stands with all of those who have experienced gender-based violence, sexual harassment or interpersonal harm. We are
Sol Plaatje University (SPU) hosted its inaugural Scholarship of Teaching and Learning Symposium on Monday, 17 November 2025, marking a significant milestone in strengthening the University’s academic project and advancing its commitment to excellence in teaching and learning. The event,
Four academics from the Faculties of Natural and Applied Sciences and Humanities have been listed among the world’s top 2 percent most cited scientists in the 2025 Stanford and Elsevier global citation rankings. The list draws on Scopus data and
The Faculty of Economic and Management Sciences invites you to its third public lecture, titled Smart, Sustainable, Circular: Disruptive Technologies Transforming Supply Chains. Public Lecture Details: Date: 26 November 2025 Time: 10:00 – 12:00 Venue: Humanities Building, Auditorium 2 Join online here:
The Faculty of Humanities will host the Cosmo Art International Conference from 30 November to 6 December 2025. Centred on Rock Art, the conference brings together leading researchers, scholars and heritage practitioners from Southern Africa and Europe in a week
Sol Plaatje University’s (SPU) Department of Institutional Advancement (DIA) was recognised for excellence in marketing, advancement and communication. The DIA team brought home five awards at the prestigious MACE Excellence Awards Gala Dinner, themed “Embracing Diversity”, that was held on
The 2025 Vice-Chancellor’s Cycle Challenge was a movement of purpose that brought together spirits and wheels for a cause that reached far beyond the finish line. Every kilometre covered this past Saturday, 8 November 2025, represented hope, opportunity and the
The second day of the University of Namibia’s (UNAM) visit to Sol Plaatje University (SPU) built on the academic immersion of day one, moving into high-level discussions focused on leadership, implementation and measurable outcomes of the signed Memorandum of Agreement
Sol Plaatje University (SPU) is celebrating a notable academic achievement in the Faculty of Natural and Applied Sciences. Dimitria Maurition van Wyk, a BSc Honours student in Physical Science (Chemistry), has been awarded Best Young Water Scientist (Poster Category) at
Sol Plaatje University (SPU) today welcomed the University of Namibia (UNAM) delegation for a two-day strategic engagement visit. The visit represents a deliberate step toward activating the signed Memorandum of Agreement and exploring practical academic cooperation between the two institutions.
Purpose met leadership on Friday, 31 October, as Sol Plaatje University inaugurated the 2025/2026 Student Representative Council (SRC). The evening stood as a defining moment of renewal, a celebration of courage, integrity and the responsibility to lead with purpose. Acting
The Faculty of Economic and Management Sciences, in collaboration with the South African Association of Public Administration and Management (SAAPAM) and the South African Association of Political Studies (SAAPS), invites you to participate in a thought-provoking webinar on governance and
As you commence your final end-of-year exams this week, I wish each of you strength, focus and clarity. This is a time to reflect not only on what you have learned, but who you are becoming. Sol Plaatje University carries
Sol Plaatje University proudly hosts the 5th Annual Vice-Chancellor’s Cycle Challenge in association with Cycling South Africa (CSA) on 8 November 2025 at the Suzuki Stadium in Kimberley. This year’s event is a movement that mobilises the University community and the
Following SPU’s participation in the Higher Education Facilities Management Association (HEFMA) 2025 Conference, held from 13 to 16 October 2025 at North-West University in Potchefstroom, the University was honoured with two prestigious awards during the conference’s Annual Awards Ceremony. The
Sol Plaatje University (SPU) participated in the 2025 Higher Education Facilities Management Association (HEFMA) Conference held at North-West University in Potchefstroom from 13 to 16 October 2025. The conference, themed “Innovating Campus Spaces,” brought together senior executives, facilities professionals and
Solomon Tshekisho Plaatje, a man who stood for dignity, justice and understanding, values that shaped his life’s work, was celebrated during the Sol Plaatje Memorial Weekend from 10 to 11 October 2025 at Sol Plaatje University (SPU). The weekend honoured
Sol Plaatje University (SPU) is delighted to announce the appointment of Professor José Frantz as the new Deputy Vice-Chancellor: Research, Innovation and Postgraduate Studies, effective 1 February 2026. Professor Frantz joins SPU from the University of the Western Cape (UWC),
At Sol Plaatje University, the month of October is a moment of remembrance, reflection and renewal. This weekend we honour the life and legacy of Solomon Tshekisho Plaatje through a series of events that carry forward his spirit of intellect,
SPU’s Faculty of Education hosted the African Languages and Cultural Heritage Symposium on 3 October 2025, bringing together educators, language experts, researchers and cultural advocates to engage on the future of African languages in education. Delivering her Opening Address virtually,
We are excited to share the Annual SPU Alumni Magazine that will keep you informed and updated on the latest developments at your alma mater and within your alumni community. This edition includes inspiring success stories, accomplishments and innovative endeavours
SPU proudly celebrates another Master’s student who has been awarded the prestigious Abe Bailey Travel Bursary, one of South Africa’s most distinguished opportunities for young leaders. The bursary recognises university students who demonstrate exceptional academic performance, leadership and a deep
We are excited to invite all SPU’s Faculty of Education graduates to the 2nd Annual Alumni Homecoming on Saturday, 11 October 2025 at the SPU Great Hall, North Campus from 10:00 – 18:00. The SPU Alumni Homecoming promises to be
Groundbreaking research on water and sustainability by three Sol Plaatje University (SPU) Master’s students has earned them a place at the Next Generation Digital Action Summit in Denmark. At this international gathering, young leaders from around the globe will collaborate
At Sol Plaatje University, the life and legacy of our namesake is not confined to history books. It lives through the spirit, purpose, and people of our institution. Each year, the Annual Sol Plaatje Lecture reminds us that we are
Sol Plaatje University (SPU), in partnership with Standard Bank, will host the SPU Standard Bank Chancellor’s Golf Day on Saturday, 11 October 2025, at the Kimberley Golf Club. This flagship fundraising event goes beyond the game of golf — it
When 134 inmates from across the Free State and Northern Cape gathered at the Bizzah Makhate Correctional Centre in Kroonstad to showcase their reading, debating and spelling skills, one of the voices guiding and encouraging them belonged to SPU’s Dr
On Monday 29 September 2025, Sol Plaatje University’s (SPU) Faculty of Natural and Applied Sciences, in collaboration with the South African Environmental Observation Network (SAEON) Arid Lands Node, hosted a Grade 11 Science Camp on Central Campus. SAEON is a
At Sol Plaatje University, the month of October is a moment of deep reflection and celebration when we honour our commitment to the legacy of our namesake, Solomon Tshekisho Plaatje. His life reminds us that education, language, justice and courage
In a landmark step towards building lifelong connections, the Alumni Relations Unit in the Department of Institutional Advancement (DIA), in collaboration with the Campus Housing and Accommodation Unit, hosted Sol Plaatje University’s (SPU) first-ever future alumni engagement for first-year students
Image: Danie van der Lith Born and raised in Kimberley, in the heart of the Northern Cape, Yaseed Kajee’s cricket journey began at home. With his father running the Colts Cricket Club, the sport was never just a choice but a
Image: Danie van der Lith Born in Batlharos in the Northern Cape, Tlotlego Metlhe discovered cricket through her school team, when she was encouraged to try out the game by her English teacher. From the start, she was drawn to the
The Faculty of Humanities, in collaboration with Dit is ’n Noord-Kaap Ding (DINK), invites you to the 2025 Heritage Month Celebration. Kindly see programme here. The annual DINK Colloquium is a multidisciplinary gathering that brings together stakeholders from across the
At Sol Plaatje University (SPU), every new building or facility carries more meaning than bricks and mortar. Behind the construction sites and cranes is a deliberate effort to uplift the people and businesses of Kimberley. Through its Contractor Incubator Programme,
Lethabo Mmuiemang has been selected as one of the top nine students in South Africa to represent the country at the prestigious International Financial Security Olympiad in Russia from 26 September to 4 October 2025. A dedicated and passionate leader
Besoek aan Platfontein lê die basis vir samewerking op onderwysgebied met ’n fokus op vroeëkinderontwikkeling- en opvoeding (VKO). Die Fakulteit Opvoedkunde van die Sol Plaatje Universiteit, het op 24 Julie 2025 die !Xun en die Khwe-gemeenskappe in Platfontein, buite Kimberley,
Platvontein ki tè ǁ’ô khwena ǂ’oakaratixa djaoro ǁ’aî â nǀi ǀ’ôana cure ci di quvuka â nu ǁ’acenka khoana â ta. Nli Soǀ Plaatje ǁ’ai ǁ’aohe dara na ti 24 ǀ’uiǁgeku 2025 !Xun nu Khwe ǁ’ana ǁ’ai khwena Kimberǀey ki.
Tsi ka ing ke ǁxung nǀ’ui ke ǁauhǁauh kxaosing ng hi sing Deve mhelili ǁ’ang nǁang-asi. ǀAm yae khe wa 24 Juli 2025 Sol Plaatje Universiti ǁauhǁauh kxaosing ke tsi-a !Xuhn he ke Khwe tju ǀ’ho kxaosing ke Platfontein, yae
Photo: Representatives from the Faculty of Education with the Chief of the !Xun and the Khwe at the !Xunkhwesa Combined School in Platfontein. Front row from left to right are: Ms M Newman, Ms M Mangumbu Chief A Sabao (!Xun
Image: Danie van der Lith Junaid Jacobs’ parents introduced him to the game of cricket when he was still very young. This was the start of a love affair with the game. For the Kimberley-born Sol Plaatje University (SPU) student, cricket
SPU’s Faculty of Education will host a thought-leading African Languages Symposium on Friday at South Campus under the theme: “African Languages and Cultural Heritage: Preserving Identity Through Language Education in South Africa,” on 3 October 2025. This one-day symposium, running
On Friday 19 September 2025, SPU concluded Research Week in celebration of World Postdoctoral Appreciation Week. The programme recognised the vital contributions of postdoctoral fellows to advancing SPU’s research agenda and highlighted their role in building impact, visibility and global
Following the landmark launch of the Centre for the Advancement of Rural and Inclusive Education and Research (CARIER) on Day 3, the fourth day of Research Week 2025 comprised the Annual Postgraduate Research Conference. This important academic event gave postgraduate
The Department of Higher Education and Training established the Entrepreneurship Development in Higher Education (EDHE) Programme towards the end of 2016. It has been funded through the University Capacity Development Programme (UCDP) and managed by Universities South Africa (USAf) since
The launch of the Centre for the Advancement of Rural and Inclusive Education and Research (CARIER) at SPU on Wednesday, 17 September 2025 at SPU’s Great Hall was not simply ceremonial. It was a symbolic moment that repositioned the meaning
SPU proudly celebrates a historic milestone with the recognition of Dimpho Maboee as one of the Mail & Guardian 200 Young South Africans 2025. She is the first SPU graduate to be honoured on this prestigious list, which annually highlights
The second day of SPU’s Research Week 2025 was dedicated to celebrating innovation and the dynamic work of SPU’s pioneering research centres. In keeping with the theme From Discovery to Impact: Innovate | Collaborate | Advance, the day highlighted how
As part of Research Week 2025, SPU’s Faculty of Humanities hosted the Women in Research in the Humanities (WORTH) Colloquium, which continues to grow as a space that amplifies the voices of women researchers and drives transformative scholarship in the
On 15 September 2025, SPU’s Faculty of Humanities, in collaboration with the South African Human Rights Commission (SAHRC), hosted a public lecture titled Democracy in the Age of Disinformation at the Humanities Building on SPU’s Central Campus. Faculty Dean, Prof
SPU’s Research Week 2025 opened on Monday, 15 September with a powerful showcase of how funding and publication pathways shape the future of research. Framed by the week’s theme From Discovery to Impact: Innovate | Collaborate | Advance, the first
On 12 September 2025, Sol Plaatje University students engaged in protest action because of dissatisfaction with NSFAS over payments concerning NSFAS-accredited residences. These protests followed a meeting between NSFAS, accommodation providers and students on the 11th of September 2025. At
The Faculty of Humanities invites you to the third Annual Women in Research in the Humanities (WORTH) Colloquium on 16 September 2025. WORTH aims to bring together both established and emerging female researchers, scholars, and practitioners from across the Humanities
Research is our identity, being our very first strategic goal, the foundation on which we build knowledge that transforms lives. Aligned with the SPU Strategic Plan (2025-2029), this year’s Research Week promises to be a celebration and powerful showcase of
The Faculty of Education is proud to announce the launch of the Centre for the Advancement of Rural and Inclusive Education Research (CARIER) on Wednesday, 17 September 2025. This new centre seeks to redefine rural and inclusive education research by
On Saturday, 30 August, Sol Plaatje University (SPU) hosted its annual Birthday Colour Run to celebrate 12 years of education, community, and inclusivity through shared pride, laughter and wellness. More than 800 participants gathered at the SPU South Campus Sports
Sol Plaatje University (SPU) Faculty of Natural and Applied Sciences to host Kaonafatso ya Dikgomo (KyD) Famer’s Day event on Friday, 5 September 2025 at South Campus Multipurpose Hall. The KyD scheme was established to facilitate the participation of smallholder
In a powerful celebration of women, the SPU Employee Wellness Office hosted the Women’s Month Series throughout August, a programme dedicated to uplifting and empowering female staff through meaningful conversations, knowledge sharing, and activities that nurtured both mind and body.
Sol Plaatje University (SPU) will once again host the International Language Conference that will take place from 27 to 29 August 2025 at the Heritage & Humanities Building on the Central Campus, under the theme “Intellectualisation of African Languages in
Science, heritage and the arts have come together in a unique arts exhibition to pay homage to women of strength on Women’s Day, celebrated annually on 9 August. The Cosmic Echoes: Shared Sky Indigenous Art Exhibition, a powerful collaboration between
Since its inception in 1980, the Eskom Expo has offered learners from Grades 6 to 12 the opportunity to present their own scientific research projects at school, district, regional and national levels, and even beyond to international stages. With 35
On 7 and 8 August 2025, Sol Plaatje University (SPU) hosted the Northern Cape G20 Education Indaba, at the newly built Great Hall on its North Campus, under the theme “Quality Foundational Learning.” The G20 is an inter-governmental forum of
Prof Debra Meyer, Acting Vice Chancellor and Principal of Sol Plaatje University will preside over a special tribute to Her Excellency Queen Katrina Esau, in recognition of her outstanding contributions to Khoi San heritage and culture. The event will take
After a brief pause in fixtures across the province, the Sasol Women’s League resumed this past weekend and the SPU Ladies made their return in spectacular form with two dominant wins in back-to-back matches. Saturday, 2 August 2025 SPU Ladies
SPU is proud to celebrate the national call-up of first-year student Lidené Kruger to the Springbok Women’s Sevens Training Squad. The trial camp will be held from 3 to 15 August 2025 at the Stellenbosch Academy of Sport in Cape
SPU’s Faculty of Humanities, in collaboration with the William Humphreys Art Gallery (WHAG), proudly hosted the When It Rains Public Lecture featuring the legendary Dr Gcina Mhlophe, an award-winning author, storyteller and artist, on Wednesday, 30 July 2025. The atmosphere
August marks a special moment in our calendar; its Women’s Month, and marks the month of our inception. We invite you to celebrate our 12th birthday by being part of the SPU Birthday Colour Run 2025, taking place on Saturday,
This Women’s Month, Sol Plaatje University (SPU) invites you to a powerful celebration of art, science, heritage and womanhood, a space where ancient starlore meets modern discovery, and where women’s voices stand out across disciplines and generations. SPU will host
Sol Plaatje University (SPU) proudly hosted the Northern Cape launch of the Teaching for All programme on 30 July 2025. This marked a significant step forward in advancing inclusive education in the province. The teacher professional development initiative is led
Ready to open your doors to the next generation of students? SPU‘s Campus Housing and Accommodation Unit (CAHAU) is inviting all prospective accommodation providers to apply for accreditation as we gear up for the next academic year. What is an AOCA
At Sol Plaatje University (SPU), the mission to graduate socially responsive, competent, and community-engaged citizens is not just a guiding principle, it is a lived reality. This is exemplified by a group of students in the Postgraduate Certificate in Education
On Friday, 25 July 2025, President Cyril Ramaphosa led a National and Provincial Government Meeting in Kimberley, Northern Cape, at Sol Plaatje University (SPU), bringing together National and Provincial leaders, including the Premier, Dr Zamani Saul, Executive Mayors from the
SPU’s Enactus Go-Green Enterprise, under the Centre for Entrepreneurship Development and Research (CEDAR), won the 2025 Harmony Entrepreneurship for Employment & Food Security Enactus Challenge at the Enactus South Africa National Exposition, held on Thursday, 17 July at the Sandton
SPU and North Carolina A&T State University formalise strategic partnership On 22 July 2025, a new chapter in international academic collaboration unfolded at Sol Plaatje University (SPU) when we hosted a high-level delegation from the North Carolina Agricultural and Technical
SPU’s Master’s student majoring in Archaeology has earned international recognition for her pioneering work in African heritage and community archaeology. Idah Maniki has been selected as one of the emerging African scholars to receive a competitive travel grant to attend
SPU’s 2025 Youth Dialogue was a powerful platform for young voices to rise, challenge and lead. Marking the end of a moving Youth Month campaign that featured real-life stories of SPU graduates and campus reflections linking the past to the
Sol Plaatje University’s (SPU) Research Office is calling for applications for two Postdoctoral Research Fellowships for 2025-2026. Postdoctoral fellows play a vital role in advancing SPU’s research initiatives, contributing significantly to our growing research stature. Fields of Study: Entrepreneurship and
Three SPU students, Amnkelekile Malambile (3rd year, Retail Business Management), Andiswa Dlamini and Asive Ntsendwana (both 1st year, B.A. General), have proudly earned Player of the Match, flying the SPU flag high at the 2025 Telkom Netball Championship. The students
As part of the UNMUTED series – a digital space created to spotlight bold, unfiltered student voices in the lead-up to SPU’s Youth Dialogue tomorrow – we share this compelling opinion piece by Mpumelelo Ndlovu, a Student Media Assistant working
Youth Month may have passed, but the work of amplifying youth voices cannot be confined to a single month. At SPU, we believe that commemorating youth is not a one-off event – it’s a continuous commitment to recognising the power,
On 9 July 2025, the Sol Plaatje University (SPU) Talent Pipeline Programme (TPP) hosted the 2025 Matric Farewell Ceremony, celebrating the dedication and commitment of its Grade 12 learners. As a pre-university enrichment programme aimed at increasing the academic, social,
On 24 and 25 June 2025, the Sol Plaatje University (SPU) Student Representative Council (SRC), Division of Student Affairs and the Northern Cape Provincial Government collaborated in the 1st Annual Nurturing Young Minds Grade 12 Initiative. 200 Grade 12 pupils from
Mr Freddie Manyate’s journey of growth, purpose and giving back has come full-circle. A determined and purpose driven student he completed a Diploma in Information and Communication Technology at SPU in 2021 and then progressed to the Advanced Diploma in
Ms Rejoice Chitengu was recently recognised among the Top 15 Young Geeks of 2025, a competition that aims to challenge and persuade local techies to reach greater heights, master their craft and play role in creating mass impact that uplifts
Sol Plaatje University (SPU), through its Student Life and Development Unit under the Division of Student Affairs, recently hosted the second annual Kopano Ya Dinaledi Leadership Programme from 16 to 21 June 2025. The six-day initiative formed a central part
As we continue our Youth Month focus on rising young voices, the Department of Institutional Advancement finds it both timely and significant to spotlight one of its own: Eric Sibiya, a dedicated Student Media Assistant was selected to form part
The voices of 1976 marched for freedom. The voices of today are building the future. Throughout Youth Month, Sol Plaatje University has been running a digital campaign that spotlighted bold, unfiltered student voices – the changemakers shaping our community from
Sol Plaatje University’s (SPU) Research Office is calling for applications for four Postdoctoral Research Fellowships for 2025-2026. Postdoctoral fellows play a vital role in advancing SPU’s research initiatives, contributing significantly to our growing research stature. Fields of Study: History Hydrogeology
SPU congratulates award-winning lecturer in Creative Writing from the Faculty of Humanities, Mr Sabata-Mpho Mokae, on his newly published book titled ‘Lefatshe ke La Badimo’, directly translated as ‘This Land Belongs to the Ancestors’, launched on 20 June 2025, showcasing
SPU congratulates Dr Simbarashe Jombo, Postdoctoral Research Fellow in the Faculty of Natural and Applied Sciences, who has been awarded a National Research Foundation (NRF) Y2 rating, (effective since January 2025). This recognition, granted by the NRF acknowledges his established
SPU is pleased to welcome Mr Nicromano Liebenberg as Deputy Director: ICT Governance and Cybersecurity – a strategic appointment that enhances the University’s digital resilience. Originally from Somerset West in Cape Town, Mr Liebenberg has spent the past 17 years
Yesterday 124 top-performing learners from the Namakwa, ZF Mgcawu and John Taolo Gaetsewe districts were officially welcomed as the 2025 cohort of the Talent Pipeline Programme (TPP). The Talent Pipeline Programme is a flagship initiative of SPU that aims to
Prof Nicola Bragazzi, a Senior Researcher at the University of Parma in Italy, recently concluded a one-month visit to SPU’s Faculty of Natural and Applied Sciences where he served as a Visiting Professor. Prof Bragazzi is a globally recognised academic
Image supplied: DFA/SITA A group of talented graduates from Sol Plaatje University (SPU) have made a significant impact in the Northern Cape government through their work at the State Information Technology Agency (SITA) Northern Cape. By fully utilising their positions
Sol Plaatje University’s (SPU) Student Representative Council (SRC) made a pivotal and courageous contribution at the recent G20 Planning Summit, hosted at SPU from 12-13 June 2025. Representing the voice of South African youth during Youth Month, the SRC joined
SPU congratulates Gobonamang Merahe, Student Development Officer in the Division of Student Affairs, on his appointment to the Council of the William Humphreys Art Gallery (WHAG) in Kimberley, one of South Africa’s premier national art museums. This appointment highlights the calibre
Sol Plaatje University (SPU), through its Centre for Creative Writing and African Languages and in collaboration with the Northern Cape Heritage Pioneers and ATKV-tak Tal Trek, proudly hosted a heritage-rich event in celebration of Afrikaans 100 – marking a century
SPU proudly celebrates a significant leadership milestone as Professor Pierre Joubert, Dean of the Faculty of Economic and Management Sciences, has been elected Chairperson of the South African Commerce Dean’s Association (SACDA) for a two-year term. SACDA, established in 2008,
The Sol Plaatje University (SPU) women’s football team is gearing up for a historic moment today as they make their debut in the prestigious Sasol Women’s League. Crowned Frances Baard Regional Champions for the 2024 season, their victory earned them
My name is Solomon Mosiane, and I hail from Pampierstad, a small township in the heart of the Northern Cape. My journey at Sol Plaatje University (SPU) began – like many others – with excitement, curiosity and a determination to
From student to postgraduate research advocate, Thami Tebeka is among the SPU alumni who are translating their academic journeys into meaningful institutional impact. Born and raised in Galeshewe, Kimberley, Thami began her SPU journey in 2019 with a Higher Certificate
Following her keynote address at the recent G20 Planning Summit hosted at Sol Plaatje University (SPU) on 12 & 13 June 2025, Minister in the Presidency for Planning, Monitoring and Evaluation, Ms Maropene Ramokgopa, engaged with SPU to reflect on
The Faculty of Education is excited to launch The Boutique – a campus-based initiative that provides our student teachers with free access to stylish, practical and professional clothing for work-integrated learning placements and special events. As our future educators prepare
The 2025 Geography Festival (Geo-Fest) is a celebration of curiosity and enthusiasm for the subject of Geography as a science. Sol Plaatje University’s (SPU) Faculty of Education, in partnership with the Sentletse Foundation, is excited to host this year’s event
Sol Plaatje University (SPU), through its Division of Student Affairs, is hosting the second annual Kopano Ya Dinaledi Leadership Programme which opened on Youth Day 16 June 2025. The alignment reinforces SPU’s commitment to cultivating student leaders who are socially
Remembering the youth of Soweto who gave their lives in protest on June 16, forty-nine years ago, is a privilege because their actions paved the way for many of the freedoms we all enjoy today. The Soweto uprising shone a
Photo supplied by: Northern Cape Provincial Government A G20 Planning Summit, hosted by the National Planning Commission (NPC) in partnership with the Office of the Premier (Northern Cape) and the Department of Planning, Monitoring and Evaluation (DPME), was held at
Sol Plaatje University’s Faculty of Humanities is proud to host the Historical Association of South Africa (HASA) Biennial Conference 2025 from 18 to 20 June, at the Humanities and Heritage Studies Building, Central Campus. Under the theme “Heritage, History and
When global education leaders gathered in Bangkok to explore inclusive, transformative solutions in teaching and learning, SPU’s Faculty of Education was represented by the Dean, Prof Boitumelo Diale. Participating in the 11th International Conference on Education (ICEDU), Prof Diale took
The Sol Plaatje University (SPU) Convocation Executive Committee (EXCO) invites all SPU Alumni to the 2025 Annual General Meeting (AGM). This gathering offers a valuable opportunity to reconnect, reflect on our progress and shape the future of our Convocation. See
SPU alumnus, Mr Curtis Jeaven, is a powerful example of how education, purpose-driven leadership and cultural advocacy can transform communities. As part of SPU’s Youth Month feature series, his story exemplifies – and is a great introduction to – this
The establishment of Sol Plaatje University (SPU) injected life back into a dying Kimberley CBD by simulating the regeneration of residential and commercial developments. While providing state-of-the-art infrastructure, employment opportunities and boosting the economy, SPU has made great efforts to
Dr Medson Mapuya, Lecturer in Accounting and Higher Education Studies in SPU’s Faculty of Education, has joined a national initiative that places university professors back into school classrooms – contributing to both academic research and meaningful community development. As part
On 8 May 2025, Afrikaans marked its 100th anniversary as an official language. This campaign, led by the Afrikaans Language Council (ATR) and the Afrikaans Language Museum and Monument (ATM), is supported by a wide and representative group of Afrikaans
Sol Plaatje University (SPU) joined the global community in commemorating World Intellectual Property (WIP) Day under the theme “IP and Music: Feel the Beat of IP.” Hosted by the SPU Research Office on 30 April 2025, the event reinforced the
As part of its Africa Month celebrations, Sol Plaatje University’s Faculty of Humanities launched One Race: The Legacy of Robert Mangaliso Sobukwe authored by Professor Luvuyo Dondolo. The event brought together academics, students, and community members to engage on Sobukwe’s
Sol Plaatje University (SPU) proudly congratulates Ms Lusinda Bowers, Sports Officer within the Division of Student Affairs, on her appointment as the Provincial Working Committee Convenor for the Free State/Northern Cape Region by the National Executive Committee (NEC) of University
As the Sol Plaatje University (SPU) grows its research capacity, it will have to simultaneously increase its postgraduate programmes, especially at Master’s and Doctoral levels. It is therefore one of the strategic goals of the University to grow and promote
Save-the-Date: Saturday, 11 October 2025 at the Kimberley Golf Club for the annual Sol Plaatje University – Standard Bank Chancellor’s Golf Day. Join our Chancellor Justice Steven Majiedt to raise funds for the Chancellor’s Bursary Fund through which we support academically talented
The Faculty of Humanities invites you to the Robert Sobukwe Book Launch on20 May 2025 at Auditorium 3, First Floor, Humanities & Heritage Studies Building, Central Campus from 17:00 – 19:30. One of the conspicuous features of South Africa’s post-apartheid political history is
Sol Plaatje University (SPU) hosted the Lesedi La Afrika Fundraising Gala Dinner on Friday, 16 May 2025 – an elegant evening of generosity and solidarity under the theme “Enabling Brighter Futures for All.” The dinner served as a key fundraising
The recent appointment of Professor Ricardo Peters, Acting Director of the Centre for Entrepreneurship Development and Research (CEDAR) at Sol Plaatje University (SPU), to the executive committee of the Northern Cape Chamber of Commerce and Industry (NOCCI), marks a significant
Twin brothers Kutlo and Kutlwano Motlhloiwa, matriculants from Kimberley Technical High School, were named among the Northern Cape’s top matric achievers for the Class of 2024 – a powerful testament to their dedication, discipline and the support received through SPU’s
Sol Plaatje University (SPU) is proud to welcome Professor Dipane Hlalele, a leading scholar in education and community engagement, who joins the institution as a full professor of education from 1 June 2025. A highly respected academic and C2 NRF-rated
On 8 May 2025, Sol Plaatje University (SPU) marked a significant milestone in its journey to become digitally enhanced with the official launch of its state-of-the-art e-Learning Studios. The launch brought together university leadership, academic staff, and various other stakeholders
At Sol Plaatje University (SPU) we are dedicated to changing lives and enabling brighter futures – this is more than just our tagline – it is at the core of everything we do. As an anchor institution in the Northern
Sol Plaatje University (SPU), through its Division of Student Affairs (DSA), will be hosting the National Association for Student Development Professionals (NASDEV) Best Practice Summit (BPS) from 08 to 11 May 2025. This significant event marks a historic milestone in the
The Griqualand West Rugby Union invites you to watch the epic battle between Diamantveld High School (DHS) and Northern Cape High School (NCH) at the annual FNB Classic Clashes! This is more than just a sport battle, it’s a grand
On Tuesday, 29 April 2025, the Vice-Chancellor of Sol Plaatje University (SPU), Professor Andrew Crouch and the Premier of the NC Provincial Government (NCPG), Dr Zamani Saul, signed a MOU in the presence of MECs, Officials and Academics. They undertook
The Research Office invites you to join the celebration of World Intellectual Property (WIP) Day on 30 April 2025. This year’s theme explores the significance of intellectual property in the music industry, focusing on copyright protection and its impact on
The Faculty of Natural and Applied Sciences is proud to announce that Sol Plaatje University (SPU) will host the 2025 ASTROLAB Workshop Training from 25 to 29 August 2025 at the Applied Sciences Building, Central Campus. The ASTROLAB Workshop offers
Sol Plaatje University’s (SPU) 10th Graduation Ceremony was held on 25 and 26 April 2025 in the University’s newly built Great Hall; the first official university gathering held in the state-of-the-art venue, adding to the significance of the occasion. The
New research led by SPU’s Dr Darlington Chizema with the assistance of Prof Ramos E. Mabugu and Dr Christelle Meniago, has revealed how corruption is holding back progress in the Southern African Development Community (SADC), a regional block made up
Sol Plaatje University (SPU) will host its 10th graduation ceremonies on Friday, 25 April and Saturday, 26 April 2025, at the SPU Great Hall, North Campus, Sol Plaatje Drive. Please note that the following roads will be closed during the
Sol Plaatje University will on 25 and 26 April 2025 host its 10th Graduation Ceremony – a significant milestone that reflects the University’s continued growth and impact in enabling brighter futures. This graduation ceremony marks a significant rite of passage,
The Lesedi La Afrika Endowment Fund Annual Fundraising Gala Dinner is an event dedicated to raising funds for scholarships, infrastructure, social impact initiatives and the long-term growth of Sol Plaatje University. On Friday, 16 May 2025, we will gather at
The Sol Plaatje University (SPU) Student Drama Group has been selected to present its original production Wa Ratwa at the 2025 National Arts Festival Fringe Programme, from 26 June to 6 July in Makhanda, Eastern Cape. Wa Ratwa is a
In March 2025, Sol Plaatje University’s (SPU) Centre for Global Change (CGC) hosted a transformative training session at the Rietfontein Municipality Chambers on the ‘Mainstreaming Sustainable Land Management (SLM) for Large-Scale Impact in the Grazing Lands of Limpopo and Northern
The Centre for Creative Writing and African Languages invites you to a series of online Capacity Building Workshops, facilitated by Dr Peet van Aardt, Head of the Writing Centre at the University of the Free State. These workshops will explore
Omphile Bertha Taele, SPU’s recipient of the prestigious Abe Bailey Travel Bursary, has returned from an enriching educational tour that broadened her academic and personal horizons. The journey began in Cape Town, where she explored iconic sites like Robben Island
Sol Plaatje University (SPU) was established in 2013, commenced its academic programmes in 2014 and plays an important role, both locally, in the Northern Cape, and nationally. The University Council governs the University in terms of the Higher Education Act,
Sol Plaatje University (SPU), in collaboration with the Water Research Commission (WRC), officially launched the Arid Region Water Research Centre (ARWRC) on Monday, 14 April 2025. The event marked a significant milestone in addressing critical water security issues affecting the
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
Sol Plaatje University (SPU) is proud to announce the launch of the Arid Region Water Research Centre (ARWRC), taking place on 14 April 2025. In partnership with the Water Research Commission (WRC), SPU aims to advance scientific knowledge, develop practical solutions,
Sol Plaatje University will host its annual Open Day on Saturday, 12 April 2025, at the Central Campus. Please note that Scanlan Street (between the corner of Lawson Street and the corner of Bishops Avenue) will be temporarily closed for
Ahmed Mahomed (left) and Professor Andrew Crouch (right) at Datacentrix’s Education Indaba 2025 As artificial intelligence (AI) becomes more prevalent in everyday life, its impact on and implications for higher education cannot be ignored. Speaking at the recent Datacentrix Education
SPU is proud to announce the official launch of the Talent Pipeline Programme (TPP) social media platforms, marking the evolution of a flagship programme of the University. Initially established to support high-achieving learners from under-resourced schools – particularly in rural
The SPU Student Representative Council (SRC) proudly invites you to the 2nd Annual Thusa Moithuti Bursary Fundraising Golf Day – a powerful initiative to help academically deserving but financially disadvantaged students continue their academic journey without interruption. This event is
Demonstrating the values at the heart of SPU’s academic mission, alumna and current master’s student Ms Bridgette Bernice Brandt has achieved a remarkable milestone in the linguistics sector. She has been appointed to serve on the esteemed Language Commission Board
As the final whistle blew in our last Varsity Shield fixture on Friday 28 March 2025, the scoreboard may not have reflected a win – but in every other sense, we walked off that field victorious. This year marked SPU’s
Join us on Saturday, 12 April 2025, when we open to high school learners, families, teachers and curious minds across the Northern Cape and beyond for an Open Day experience designed to inspire. At Sol Plaatje University (SPU) we are
The Department of Languages and Communication in the Faculty of Humanities is pleased to issue a second call for papers for the upcoming International Language Conference, taking place from 27 – 29 August 2025. Themed “Intellectualisation of African Languages in the
SPU’s Centre for Entrepreneurship Development and Research (CEDAR), established in December 2022, has a strong focus on building a vibrant entrepreneurial ecosystem that drives economic growth in the Northern Cape through pedagogy, entrepreneurship development, and research. The Centre held its
SPU ENACTUS, a student entrepreneurship initiative under the Centre for Entrepreneurship Development and Research (CEDAR) has had major success with one of the enterprises that are registered and affiliated to the programme. Farmily is a social impact registered enterprise that
Sol Plaatje University is pleased to announce that, following the first quarterly meeting of the University Council held on 26 March 2025, Prof Randall Carolissen has been elected as Chairperson and Mr Cox Mokgoro as Deputy Chairperson of the University
Sol Plaatje University’s (SPU) Gemmies may have fallen short in Gqeberha on Friday, but their performance against the experienced FNB Madibaz showed flashes of brilliance and a fighting spirit that bodes well for the rest of the competition and the
The Human Rights Dialogue hosted by Sol Plaatje University’s Division of Student Affairs, on 21 March 2025, provided an invaluable platform for exploring the intersections of Leadership, Governance, and the Protection of Human Rights in a Democratic Society. In her
SPU’s Division of Student Affairs will host a Human Rights Day Dialogue on 21 March 2025 at 10:00 in the Library Auditorium on Central Campus. Held under the theme “Leadership, Governance, and the Protection of Human Rights in a Democratic
Sol Plaatje University (SPU) hosted the South African Council on Higher Education (CHE) on 11 and 12 March 2025 for a series of engagements with different university stakeholders on the new Quality Assurance Framework (QAF) which is being implemented across
Third-year student in Information and Communication Technology (ICT) in Applications Development, Liyema Swartbooi, has made SPU proud by securing a top spot in the French Entrepreneurship Development in Higher Education (EDHE) AI and Blue Tech Incubation Programme, in partnership with
In a historic first for Floors High School, the coaching team of the Sol Plaatje University (SPU) female rugby team, alongside the Frances Baard Rugby Region, hosted an exhilarating rugby clinic for the school’s newly established girls’ rugby programme. This
The Department of Languages and Communication in the Faculty of Humanities will be hosting the International Language Conference from 27 – 29 August 2025. The conference, themed “Intellectualisation of African Languages in the Digital Age”, will provide a platform for
Dear SPU Students The Finance Department is continuing with the batch payment of allowances to first year NSFAS-funded students. All first year students who are on the NSFAS-funded list and have correctly captured their banking details on the ITS system
The countdown to graduation has begun! SPU proudly presents its 10th Graduation Ceremony, a momentous occasion celebrating your academic excellence and achievements. Dates Friday, 25 April 2025 – 14:00: Faculty of Education Saturday, 26 April 2025 – 10:00: Faculties of
The excitement is building as we approach the 3rd annual SPU Community Big Walk on Saturday, 15 March 2025! This year, we’re not just walking – we’re celebrating community, creativity, and entrepreneurship with a vibrant Lifestyle Market where local businesses,
The engagement between Sol Plaatje University (SPU) and the Kingdom of the Netherlands is a crucial step in advancing green hydrogen skills development in the Northern Cape. As the Province positions itself as a key player in the global green
The disbursement of student allowances commenced on 17 February 2025 for confirmed funded students: The NSFAS list (which is still not finalised) currently reflects about 4 900 NSFAS funded students, of which approximately 1900 are First Time Entering Students (FTEN).
Sol Plaatje University (SPU) proudly celebrates the outstanding achievement of first-year Bachelor of Arts student Abel Mokwena, who made his professional debut for the Northern Cape Heats. A talented cricketer from Kimberley, Mokwena’s journey to the professional stage is a
The Sol Plaatje University (SPU) Community Big Walk returns on Saturday, 15 March 2025, to unite the people of Kimberley for a day of fun and entertainment This has grown into a must-attend event in the city, at which we
The Deputy Minister of Higher Education and Training (DHET), Mr Buti Manamela, conducted a ministerial oversight visit to Sol Plaatje University (SPU) on 25 February 2025to assess the state of readiness for the 2025 academic year. He was accompanied by
Sol Plaatje University (SPU) hosted 2 273 first-time entering students at the Vice-Chancellor’s Official Welcome Ceremony on Saturday, 15 February 2025, marking the beginning of their academic journey within the vibrant #MySPU community. The event concluded SPU’s two-week orientation programme,
Dear SPU Students In 2021, as part of a short-term solution to the ongoing higher-education funding crisis, several universities established dedicated funds to help final-year students settle outstanding debt, drawing on resources from University Councils and donations from the private
Gemmie and the SPU Cheerleading Squad On Monday, 3 February 2025, Sol Plaatje University (SPU) kicked off its Varsity Shield celebrations with an electrifying Mascot Madness activation. The event, aimed at rallying community support for SPU’s historic, first-ever qualification for
Kimberley, brace yourselves. This coming Monday, something loud is happening. Something bold. Something unforgettable. This isn’t just another Monday – it’s a day Kimberley and the entire Northern Cape will remember. For the first time ever, SPU has earned its
The Council of Sol Plaatje University (SPU) is pleased to announce the appointment of Professor Debra Meyer as the University’s 3rd Vice-Chancellor and Principal, effective 1 January 2026. This appointment, made at the Council meeting held on 27 November 2024,
We are pleased to announce the availability of the Merit Award Bursary for the 2025 academic year. This opportunity is open to postgraduate students registered for PGCE, PGDip, Honours, and Master’s studies at SPU. This bursary aims to provide financial relief by
Sol Plaatje University (SPU) students showcased their talent and innovation on the national stage, excelling in the 2024 Centre for High-Performance Computing (CHPC) National Conference. Competing in the Data Intensive Research Initiative of South Africa (DIRISA) Student Datathon and the
On Friday, 6 December 2024, Sol Plaatje University (SPU) hosted the prestigious Vice-Chancellor’s Excellence Awards to honour the exceptional achievements of staff in four categories: Research, Teaching and Learning, Community Engagement, and Service Delivery. This year, the awards held special
SPU proudly hosted the University Sport South Africa (USSA) 2024 Football Tournament, welcoming 22 universities from across the country from 1 – 6 December 2024. The tournament began with a vibrant opening ceremony at the Suzuki Stadium, where teams were
On Saturday, 7 December 2024, Sol Plaatje University (SPU) staff and their families gathered for the annual Vice-Chancellor’s Family Fun Day, a heartwarming celebration of connection, appreciation, and community spirit. Hosted on South Campus, the event offered a lively mix
We are excited to announce that Sol Plaatje University (SPU) will host the National USSA Football Championships from 2 – 6 December 2024. This prestigious event will bring together 22 universities from the country to compete in one of the
Ms Jerida Malatji, a lecturer in Court Interpreting at SPU Faculty of Humanities, has been appointed to serve on the Pan South African Language Board (PanSALB) Sesotho sa Leboa National Language Body for a five-year term. This prestigious appointment underscores
On 22 November 2024, Sol Plaatje University (SPU) proudly launched its High-Performance Sport Centre (HPC) at the South Campus Sport Precinct. This milestone signifies a historic first for the Northern Cape, addressing the need for a world-class sporting facility that
The Oppenheimer Memorial Trust Scholarship for Honours Studies at Sol Plaatje University are now open for the 2025 academic year. Both part-time and full-time students who demonstrate outstanding academic performance and are interested in pursuing careers in academia, research, development
Kimberley was abuzz in the early hours of Saturday morning, 9 November 2024, as cyclists gathered at SPU’s South Campus. The air was crisp and fresh, with a lingering scent of rain still clinging to the leaves and pavement –
On Friday, 1 November 2024, Deputy Vice-Chancellor: Research, Innovation, and Postgraduate Studies, Professor Debra Meyer, presided over SPU’s annual Student Representative Council (SRC) Inauguration Dinner. The event was dedicated to formally welcome the incoming SRC for the 2024/2025 term, while
Sol Plaatje University (SPU) is pleased to announce the appointment of Professor Emmanuel Do Linh San, a distinguished wildlife ecologist and conservationist. Prof Do Linh San joins the Zoology Department in the Faculty of Natural and Applied Sciences. Prof Do
SPU’s Vice-Chancellor and Principal, Prof Andrew Crouch, was recently featured on OFM (94.2 FM) to discuss the upcoming 4th annual Vice-Chancellor’s Cycle Challenge on 9 November 2024. In the interview, Prof Crouch expressed his vision for the event to become widely recognised
SPU’s Prof Nhamo Chaukura, Acting Head of the Department of Physical and Earth Sciences in the Faculty of Natural and Applied Sciences, and his team have achieved a significant milestone with the publication of their study, Profiling the bacterial microbiome
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
Ms Shantanise Phepheng, a graduate of SPU and current Master’s student specialising in Heritage Studies, has been appointed as the Vice Chair of the Southern African Archaeology Student Society (SAASS). SAASS is a prominent SADC organisation dedicated to supporting students
In celebration of Student Entrepreneurship Week (SEW) 2024, the Centre for Entrepreneurship Development and Research (CEDAR) at SPU hosted a special one-day event titled Student Entrepreneurship Day 2024 under the theme #Educators4Entrepreneurship. This initiative highlights SPU’s commitment to integrating entrepreneurship
SPU is proud to announce the appointment of Dr Siviwe Odwa Malongweni as the first researcher to join the newly renamed Centre for Global Change (CGC), formerly known as the Risk and Vulnerability Science Centre. Dr Malongweni’s role as the
The Research Office is pleased to announce the call for applications for two Post-Doctoral Research Fellowships for 2024-2025. Post-doctoral fellows play a vital role in advancing SPU’s research initiatives, contributing significantly to our growing research stature. Fields of Study: Applied
On 17 October 2024, the Faculty of Humanities hosted the Kgosi Luka Jantjie Public Lecture which aims to deepen our understanding of Kgosi Luka Jantjie’s impact and legacy on the broader Northern Cape community and to strengthen collaboration between the
It’s back, bigger and better! The Vice-Chancellor’s Cycle Challenge 2024 is here, and you’re invited to the ONLY road cycling event in the Northern Cape. This year, we’re taking it up a notch – new features, a buzzing atmosphere, and
Sol Plaatje University’s (SPU) Research Office hosted an Intellectual Property (IP) and Entrepreneurship Awareness Workshop on 10 October 2024. This workshop aimed to raise awareness about the importance of intellectual property rights, the various types of IP, and their practical
The Faculty of Humanities invites you to the Kgosi Luka Jantjie Public Lecture, which will take place tomorrow. First introduced in 2022, the public lecture aims to build a deeper understanding of Kgosi Luka Jantjie’s impact on the broader Northern
Sol Plaatje University (SPU) staff members recently participated in the University Sports South Africa (USSA) Staff Games held at the University of Limpopo on 4 & 5 October 2024. This year’s games not only saw our staff team winning their
The Sol Plaatje Memorial Weekend, held on 4 and 5 October, was a profound celebration of Sol Plaatje’s legacy, uniting alumni, staff, special guests, important stakeholders, and students in reflection on his ideals of social justice, education, and community upliftment.
October marks the birth month of the visionary and intellectual, Solomon Tshekisho Plaatje, whose legacy continues to inspire and guide us. As a pioneering journalist, writer, linguist, and politician, Plaatje’s dedication to education, justice, and equality forms the foundation upon
Image: Getty Images South Africa has a massive infrastructure problem. Roads, electricity supply and water management are just three areas in which there is mounting evidence of collapse and decay. This is true for big cities like Johannesburg as well as
Sol Plaatje University (SPU) proudly commemorated the symbolic merger of Ra-Thaga and Mhudi Hall of Residences, a union rich in historical significance and aligned with the values of love, courage, and unity reflected in Solomon Tshekisho Plaatje’s novel, Mhudi. The
Previous slide Next slide Reflecting on the 2024 USSA Rugby 7s, we celebrate the remarkable performances of all the participating teams. The tournament, hosted by Sol Plaatje University within its Sport Precinct, saw the TUKS men’s team and NWU women’s
Ms Gail Motlhaudi, a lecturer in the Faculty of Economic and Management Sciences (EMS) at SPU, recently represented our Centre for Entrepreneurship Development and Research (CEDAR) at the 24th Annual Experiential Classroom Conference at the University of Notre Dame, Indiana, USA. The
We are proud to invite you to participate in SPU‘s Heritage Week Celebrations, taking place from 24 – 27 September 2024. This special week, organised by the Faculty of Humanities in collaboration with the Northern Cape Heritage Pioneers, celebrates our
Sol Plaatje University (SPU) is proud to host the University Sport South Africa (USSA) Rugby 7s Tournament for the third consecutive year. We will welcome teams from universities across the country for three days of exhilarating rugby action on our
Please be informed that the university is currently experiencing a disruption in connectivity due to a technical problem caused by the recent storm. Our ITC Department is working with the service provider to resolve the matter as swiftly as possible.
Sol Plaatje University’s (SPU) Employee Wellness Office marked the close of Women’s Month on 30 August with a vibrant brunch at Ballim Square, Luka Jantjie House. This event, the culmination of a series of empowerment activities held throughout August, celebrated
SPU successfully hosted the Convocation Executive Committee (CONVEX) Roadshow on 7 and 8 September 2024, in Taung and Kimberley. The event aimed to engage with members of the Convocation, who are SPU alumni committed to upholding and promoting the University’s
Sol Plaatje University (SPU) will host the Standard Bank Chancellor’s Golf Day on Saturday, 5 October 2024, at the Kimberley Golf Club as part of the Sol Plaatje Memorial Weekend. This annual event raises funds for the Chancellor’s Bursary Fund,
Sol Plaatje University (SPU) Rugby First Team made history by securing their place in the 2025 Varsity Shield League for the first time after back-to-back victories against Tshwane University of Technology (TUT). Following an impressive performance at the USSA Tournament
During the Sol Plaatje University (SPU) Research Week 2024, the University introduced the Centre for Global Change (CGC), formerly the Risk and Vulnerability Science Centre. The new name and expanded mandate of the CGC was unveiled during a glittering black-tie
Sol Plaatje University (SPU) is excited to announce the Convocation Executive Committee’s (CONVEX) Roadshow, taking place from 7 to 8 September 2024. The purpose of the event is to engage with members of the Convocation, which includes SPU alumni dedicated
The Faculty of Humanities at SPU hosted the second annual Women in Research in the Humanities (WORTH) Colloquium, an event dedicated to celebrating and advancing the contributions of female researchers. Dr Wilma Newhoudt-Druchen, former Member of Parliament and renowned Deaf
We are pleased to announce the appointment of Dr Severino Machingambi as the new Director of the Centre for Teaching, Learning and Programme Development (CTLPD) at SPU, effective from 1 September 2024. Dr Machingambi brings a wealth of experience and
Sol Plaatje University’s 2024 Birthday Colour Run was a resounding success, exceeding expectations and bringing together over 900 participants from across the province and beyond. The event kicked off on a chilly August morning, but the atmosphere was far from
We are excited to announce the upcoming Research Week 2024, scheduled to take place from 2 to 6 September 2024. This event, themed “Advancing New Frontiers and Showcasing Cutting-Edge Research at Sol Plaatje University (SPU),” is a vital platform for
This month, as Sol Plaatje University (SPU) celebrates its 11th birthday, we are excited to mark this milestone with a double celebration. In honour of Women’s Month, we are proud to share that SPU has been featured in the prestigious
On Thursday, 15 August 2024, Sol Plaatje University (SPU) hosted its second-semester Career Fair during which students could explore career opportunities and connect with potential employers. The Career Fair, organised by the Career Services Office, is a strategic initiative to
Professor Andrew Crouch, Vice-Chancellor and Principal of SPU and Ms Nomahlubi Khwinana, Commissioner of the South African Human Rights Commission (SAHRC), together with their senior staff and the SPU SRC met on Friday, 16 August 2024 to discuss how the
On 9 August 2024, Sol Plaatje University‘s (SPU) Campus Housing and Accommodation Unit (CAHAU) hosted a Women’s Day celebration under the theme “Healing, Protecting, and Becoming Her”. The event was designed to empower and uplift the female student community, reflecting
Curtis Jeaven, a 27-year-old from the Northern Cape, has been selected as a laureate of the Cross Mobility scholarship programme for 2024, a collaboration between Sol Plaatje University (SPU), Universite de Bordeaux, and Universite Sevoie Mont Blanc. With a strong
On 15 August 2024, 25 final-year ICT students from SPU were awarded fellowships at the Digital Fellowship Programme Launch and Student Welcome Ceremony. Dr Silas Verkijika, Acting Director of the Centre for Applied Data Science, highlighted the collaboration as the
In celebration of Women’s Month, the Accredited Off-Campus Accommodation (AOCA) Office at Sol Plaatje University (SPU) made a meaningful contribution to the community by donating essential items to new mothers at Kimberley Hospital on 15 August 2024. This gesture was
SPU’s Research Office is excited to announce the call for applications for two post-doctoral research fellowships for 2024-2025. The post-doctoral fellowship opportunities are available in the fields of: Applied Data Science Languages in Education Post-doctoral fellows are supported as an
Growing up in the dusty streets of Okiep, Owen Langdown knew he had to work hard to achieve success not only for himself but for the children of Namakwa. Owen, now 27, is the middle child of five brothers. Raised
The SPU Women’s Month Public Lecture on 7 August 2024 was a remarkable celebration of women’s achievements and contributions. The event featured a keynote address by Dr Nthabiseng Moleko, a distinguished Development Economist and Senior Lecturer at the Stellenbosch Business
On 31 July 2024, SPU’s Employee Wellness Office, in partnership with the Sol Plaatje Local Municipality and Interact at the Northern Cape High School Rotary Club, handed over essential items including adult nappies, blankets, pillows, pillowcases, and fitted sheets to
Lace up your trainers – Sol Plaatje University is excited to announce that entries are now open for our annual Birthday Colour Run, set to take place on 31 August 2024, at the Suzuki Stadium (20 Jacobus Smit Ave, New
In celebration of Women’s Month, we invite you to attend the SPU Women’s Month Public Lecture. This year, Dr Nthabiseng Moleko, a distinguished Development Economist and Senior Lecturer at the Stellenbosch Business School, is our guest speaker. Annually, on 9
We are thrilled to announce the appointment of Ms Kashini Maistry as the new Director of Institutional Advancement at Sol Plaatje University (SPU). Ms Maistry is a familiar face within the SPU community, having joined us in 2019 as the
As one of two post-democracy universities launched in a new-era South Africa, Sol Plaatje University has added a new dimension to Kimberley as a centre of academic excellence. Since inception in 2013, the University has grown rapidly from its first
The Health & Wellness Centre is currently running a Mental Health Week campaign focused on substance use and addictive disorders. The initiative aims to raise awareness, educate the University community, and offer support to individuals affected by these challenges. Objectives:
Sol Plaatje University’s (SPU) Sociology postgraduate students represented the University exceptionally well at the 29th South African Sociological Association (SASA) Annual Conference, hosted by Stellenbosch University from 1 to 4 July 2024. Notably, three Master’s and eight Honours candidates from
SPU’s Central Campus was filled with enthusiasm as we hosted a special meet and greet yesterday to celebrate and send off our first-team rugby players to their crucial playoff match against Tshwane University of Technology (TUT) on 12 August 2024.
In January this year, Sol Plaatje University (SPU) transitioned from schools to faculties, marking a pivotal moment in our institution’s history. This shift has been integral in preserving the integrity of our academic programmes while steering the university through a
Nosipho Khumari recently returned to Kimberley and was met with a warm and enthusiastic welcome from family, friends and the local sporting community. Picture: Danie van der Lith Nosipho Khumari, a student at Sol Plaatje University (SPU) in Kimberley, proudly
A mismatch between the skills of young people and available job opportunities further complicate the situation of unemployment, says writers. Image: 123RF SA faces a crisis of youth unemployment. More than half of young South Africans entering the labour market are
On 17 July 2024, Sol Plaatje University‘s (SPU) Research Office, in collaboration with the Student Life and Development Unit, hosted a dynamic public lecture attended by SPU students, staff, and high school learners from Vuyolwethu Secondary School, Technical High School
Ms Omphile Bertha Taele, will join an elite group of students who are recipients of the prestigious Abe Bailey Trust and Travel Bursary. The Travel Bursaries are awarded annually and cover the cost of an all-expenses-paid 3-week educational tour of
Sol Plaatje University’s (SPU) ‘Gemmie Fire’ burned brightly as the varsity rugby team showcased their prowess, triumphing over Durban University of Technology (DUT) with an impressive 59-5 score in the commanding final of the University Sports South Africa (USSA) tournament
Key Points: The Evolving DNA of Sol Plaatje University Sol Plaatje University is a developing community-based university in South Africa’s Northern Cape province, with a social justice mission to produce human capital in areas of local need like education, data
SPU’s Accredited Off-Campus Accommodation Office (AOCA) hosted a successful community outreach event on 5 July 2024. The initiative brought together the AOCA House Committee, the Health and Wellness Centre, Career Services, SPU Sport, and student volunteers to support local residents
Image: Supplied Kimberley’s own Nosipho Khumari, a student at Sol Plaatje University, has been selected to represent South Africa at the upcoming Confederation of Universities and Colleges Sports Association (CUCSA) Region V Games. The highly anticipated football tournament is set
Sol Plaatje University is pleased to announce the appointment of Professor Boitumelo Molebogeng Diale as the Dean of Education, effective from 1 October 2024. Prof Diale brings a wealth of experience and expertise to this position. She has been a
Sol Plaatje University (SPU) is pleased to have hosted learners of the Talent Pipeline Programme (TPP) for their mid-year session which began on 16 June 2024. The two-week programme comprised of 104 learners from four districts in the Northern Cape
Sol Plaatje University (SPU) proudly leads as a digitally empowered university, pioneering undergraduate data science education, boasting a comprehensive digital library, and striving to be a digitally enhanced using digital technologies to augment the University’s operations, academic delivery, and research
In September 2021, Sol Plaatje University (SPU) saw the establishment of the Risk and Vulnerability Science Centre (RVSC) under the erstwhile School of Natural and Applied Sciences. This initiative was part of the Department of Science and Innovation’s (DSI) Global
The Sol Plaatje University (SPU) in Kimberley in the Northern Cape has given many young people from the fringes of society a lifeline to access higher education. It is a beacon for students from all over the country. Many of
As Sol Plaatje University (SPU) continues to pioneer digital advancements, we are immensely proud of the strides made by our Geekulcha Student Society (GKSS) members who rocked the stage for the second consecutive year at the ITWeb Security Summit 2024
I am pleased to announce that Professor Paul Green will take up the position of Deputy Vice-Chancellor: Teaching and Learning, effective 1 August 2024. Professor Debra Meyer, the current Deputy Vice-Chancellor: Teaching and Learning will become the Deputy Vice-Chancellor: Research,
It is with immense sadness that I convey the message that Justice Yvonne Mokgoro passed away yesterday, 9 May 2024. Justice Mokgoro was the first woman to serve on the Constitutional Court of South Africa and did so with distinction
The Faculty of Education invites you to the book launch of Afdraai Na Annabel on 15 May 2024, from 17:00-18:30, Auditorium A, Teaching Building, Central Campus, 26 Scanlan Street (download the programme here). Authored by Ms Rencia van Blerk a
Students at Sol Plaatje University embarked upon protest action this morning against the new, fully outsourced catering model which came into effect on 15 April 2024. The protest which began peacefully, became violent and the SAPS had to intervene. Staff
The Sol Plaatje University‘s (SPU) Rugby teams impressed spectators with their dynamic performances, earning commanding victories in recent matches on Saturday, 27 April 2024. The dedication and spirit of our Gemmies was evident as the 2nd team secured a strong
Sol Plaatje University’s (SPU) Research Office calls for applications for an exciting and dynamic post-doctoral research fellowship for 2024-2025. Post-doctoral fellows play a crucial role in advancing SPU’s research initiatives. The growth of our research stature heavily relies on the
Celima Mundama, an SPU Chess player and alumnus, showcased her skills at the recent close competition held in Pretoria from 12-14 April. It was a fierce competition, as the top 10 female university affiliated players, vied for a coveted spot
Left to right: Dr Johann Van der Spuy, Prof Ricardo Peters, Mr Chad Lucas and Ms Gail Mothlaudi. This year, the Centre for Entrepreneurship Development and Research (CEDAR) is intensifying its efforts to foster a robust entrepreneurial culture through impactful
Left to right: Mr Ephraim Tshobeka, Prof Ricardo Peters, Ms Gail Mothlaudi and Mr Joe Cloete, Municipal Manager of Richtersveld Municipality. In March, CEDAR successfully completed its first mentorship project in Port Nolloth and Hondeklip Bay. The project, which was
In an ongoing effort to promote and build strategic partnerships with industry Prof Peters, Acting Director of CEDAR met with corporates in April in Cape Town. Prof Peters met with the Group Executive HR and stakeholder engagement for the Waterfront
The Faculty of Economic and Management Sciences and the Centre for Entrepreneurship Development & Research (CEDAR) hosted Prof Friedrich from Giesen University in Germany in March. Prof Friedrich visited the institution on a DAAD-funded programme to assist with research output
The Telkom Netball League (TNL), an interprovincial league which is ranked as the most elite league within South African Netball, begins another exciting season. SPU Sport is exited to announce that two of our Gemmies, Andile Dlamini and Amnkelekile Malambile
Please note that graduates who could not attend the graduation ceremony held on Saturday, 20 April 2024, can collect their certificates at the Admissions Office, Luka Jantjie House, Ground Floor, weekdays from 09:00 and 16:00. We urge graduates to make
On 20 April 2024, Sol Plaatje University (SPU) celebrated its 9th graduation ceremony at the Mittah Seperepere Convention Centre, commemorating both the 2023 graduating class and a decade of academic excellence. The event unfolded in two sessions, with the first
Sol Plaatje University (SPU) is excited to announce the appointment of Professor Luvuyo Ntombana as the new Director for Research, effective1 April 2024. Professor Ntombana’s impressive academic career includes roles at notable South African universities such as the University of
Excitement is in the air as we celebrate our graduands achievements at Sol Plaatje University’s ninth Graduation Ceremony on Saturday, 20 April 2024 at the Mittah Seperepere Convention Centre in Kimberley. Graduates are kindly requested to take note of the
Front: Mr David Makomane. Back row, left to right: Mr Liyema Swartbooi, Mrs Eva Mamabolo and Mr Chris Kruger In a remarkable showcase of talent and innovation, Sol Plaatje University (SPU) students achieved second place in the prestigious L’Oréal Brandstorm
From left to right: Ms Jeesicah Seekoei, Prof Andrew Crouch, Ms Stanilina Visagie, Mr Theodor Moeti. Representatives from Kolomela Mine led by Mr Theodor Moeti, Specialist Social Economic Development, met with Professor Andrew Crouch, Vice-Chancellor and Principal, and members of
Ready for the next step in your career? Get ready to explore opportunities at the Sol Plaatje University (SPU) 2024 Career Fair on 17 April 2024, from 10:00 – 16:00, at SPU’s Exam Hall on Central Campus. This event will
Sol Plaatje University (SPU) was established in 2013 and commenced its academic programmes in 2014 and plays an important role, both locally, in the Northern Cape, and nationally. The University Council governs the University in terms of the Higher Education
On 6 April 2024, future Gemmies got a glimpse into student life at Sol Plaatje University (SPU) during the annual SPU Open Day. Learners explored our state-of-the-art laboratories, classrooms and SPU’s digital library, which provided a glimpse into the vibrant
From 5 – 9 April 2024, the Faculty of Education will host Ms Marie Påsse from the University West in Sweden. This visit signifies SPU’s commitment to establishing strategic partnerships both locally and internationally. Engagements of this nature lay the
Sol Plaatje University (SPU) is delighted to welcome our new Library and Information Services Director, Mr Magodongo April Mahlangu. With over two decades of experience in the library sector, Mr Mahlangu’s academic credentials are impressive, boasting degrees from the University
Sol Plaatje University (SPU) and the South African Police Service (SAPS) have launched the SPU-SAPS Campus Safety Desk. The initiative, which took place on 26 and 27 March 2024, aims to enhance the security of students and staff alike. Prof
Sol Plaatje University’s Centre for Entrepreneurship Development and Research (CEDAR) recently hosted its inaugural two-day regional entrepreneurship conference themed ‘KIES (Keeping It Extremely Simple) Entrepreneurship’. Held on 19 and 20 March at the SPU South Campus Hall, the conference drew
We are excited to announce the launch of the Sol Plaatje University (SPU) and the South African Police Service (SAPS) Campus Safety Desk on 27 and 26 March 2024 at the South Campus Multipurpose Hall. This initiative is a result
The Sol Plaatje University (SPU) Student Representative Council (SRC) hosted the inaugural Thusa Moithuti Fundraising Golf Day on 15 March 2024 at the Magersfontein Memorial Golf Estate. The event aimed to raise funds for less privileged and academically excluded SPU
Sol Plaatje University (SPU) academics, Creative Writing Lecturer, Mr Sabata-Mpho Mokae and Extraordinary Professor, Prof Brian Willan, clinched the Nonfiction Best Edited Volume Award at the prestigious ninth annual Humanities and Social Sciences Awards. Their book, Revisiting Sol Plaatje’s Mafeking
Sol Plaatje University Rugby are having an amazing, winning season in every respect. They have landed three local sponsors, have had 4 incredible wins from their first 4 games and just received their new kit. At an event on Tuesday,
Are you ready to take your academic career to the next level? Step onto Sol Plaatje University’s (SPU) vibrant campus life on Saturday, 6 April 2024, for an Open Day like no other. Celebrating a decade of innovation and inclusivity,
The Pan South African Language Board (PanSALB) and the new Centre for Creative Writing and African Languages (CCWAL) at Sol Plaatje University (SPU) recently held their first joint workshop. This event, which focused on Nama Orthography, signals the Centre’s strategic
Sol Plaatje University (SPU) is delighted to introduce Professor Odireleng Martin Ntwaeaborwa, our first Dean of the Faculty of Natural and Applied Sciences. With an impressive track record in academia Professor Ntwaeaborwa is poised to transform the landscape of STEM
The Water Research Commission (WRC), in partnership with the Department of Water and Sanitation (DWS), the South African Local Government Association (SALGA), Sol Plaatje University (SPU) and the Frances Baard District Municipality, will host a roadshow in the Northern Cape
In a promising development for sport at Sol Plaatje University (SPU), the SPU Rugby team has secured vital sponsorships ahead of their campaign to qualify for the Varsity Shield tournament. This support is a game-changer, ensuring that our team has
Dive into the world of higher education at Sol Plaatje University’s (SPU) Open Day on Saturday, 6 April 2024, in Kimberley. As we celebrate a decade of growth and achievement, including being named one of the Top 10 coolest university
Convocation EXCO members in the photo L to R: Mr T Moila (Member), Mr T Cwaile (President), Ms T Tebeka (Member), Mr B Ndebele (Secretary), Mr T Kesekile (Deputy President) The Executive Committee of the Convocation of Sol Plaatje University
Academic and operational activities at Sol Plaatje University (SPU) were disrupted this morning, Thursday, 7 March 2024, by students who are demanding payment of NSFAS allowances and that the University addresses concerns about conditions in accredited off-campus accommodation. NSFAS approached
On 6 March 2024, Sol Plaatje University (SPU) and the Mining Qualifications Authority (MQA) took a significant step towards strengthening their partnership, with SPU’s Vice-Chancellor, Prof Andrew Crouch, and MQA’s CEO, Dr Thabo Mashongoane, leading the way. This collaboration underscores
It is that wonderful time of the year when we celebrate the remarkable achievements of our students. This year, our ninth graduation ceremony coincides with the 10th anniversary of Sol Plaatje University (SPU), two milestone events in our history. The
Join the charge on Friday, 15 March 2024 at the Magersfontein Memorial Golf Estate from 08:00 to 20:00 for an exciting day on the greens. The Sol Plaatje University (SPU) Student Representative Council (SRC) invites you to the Thusa Moithuti
The Oppenheimer Memorial Trust (OMT) awarded prestigious scholarships to select students pursuing an Honours Degree at Sol Plaatje University (SPU). The Trust generously donated R4 million in scholarships to SPU honours students with a proven record of excellence. This substantial
Sol Plaatje University recently welcomed Professor Russel Viljoen as the inaugural Dean of the Faculty of Humanities, Professor Viljoen brings his extensive experience and academic prowess to help shape the future of humanities education at our vibrant institution. With a
From left to right: Mr Buntu Mnyaka, Senior Manager of Student Life and Development and Mr Letlhogonolo Thintha, SRC President On 23 February 2024 Dr Precious Moloi-Motsepe, co-founder and CEO of the Motsepe Foundation gathered representatives from all 26 South
Sol Plaatje University’s Research Office calls for applications for exciting and dynamic post-doctoral research fellowships for 2024-2025. The post-doctoral fellowship opportunities are available in the fields of: Physical Sciences Social Science Education Post-doctoral fellows are supported as an integral part
The second annual SPU Community Big Walk on Saturday, 24 February 2024, united 781 walkers from the Kimberley community alongside staff and students of Sol Plaatje University (SPU). This event reaffirmed one of SPU’s strategic objectives: fostering community engagement by
Sol Plaatje University’s (SPU) Chief Operating Officer (COO), Mr David Kanguwe, spoke to OFM about the forthcoming SPU second annual Community Big Walk, scheduled for Saturday, 24 February 2024. Listen here: SPU Community Big Walk: where every step counts! |
On Saturday, 17 February 2023, Professor Andrew Crouch, Vice-Chancellor and Principal of Sol Plaatje University (SPU), together with members of the Senior Management Team (SMT), academics and the Student Representative Council (SRC), officially welcomed the Class of 2024 to become
Hey SPU students! Join us for the second annual #CommunityBigWalk at a special rate of just R30 plus receive a FREE t-shirt! Catch us at Central Campus from 12:00 to 14:00 on Wednesday, 21 February 2024, to sign up. First
Step into the spirit of community and camaraderie – Sol Plaatje University (SPU) is thrilled to announce that entries for our second annual Community Big Walk are now open! Lace-up for a day filled with fun, fitness, and family-friendly festivities.
The SPU’s Centre for Entrepreneurship Development and Research (CEDAR) is hosting its inaugural Regional Entrepreneurship Conference from 19 – 20 March 2024 at SPU’s South Campus. This conference promises to be unlike any entrepreneurship conference that has taken place in
Sol Plaatje University (SPU) is pleased to announce its transition from schools to faculties, effective 1 January 2024, following the Council’s endorsement on 31 July 2020 and the approval for the creation of Dean positions on 28 September 2022. In
The Vice-Chancellor’s Official Welcome Ceremony for the new cohort of first-time entering students will take place on Saturday, 17 February 2024 from 09:00 to 10:00, at the Mittah Seperepere Convention Centre in Kimberley. Professor Andrew Crouch, our Vice-Chancellor and Principal,
At Sol Plaatje University (SPU), we pride ourselves on being an institution actively engaged in learning, research and development. We are always thrilled when our staff members, like Ms Maposhe, an Administrator in SPU’s Department of Internal Audit, realise their
A hearty welcome and hats off to you for sailing through matric in such challenging times. Now, prepare to embark on an incredible and transformative journey at Sol Plaatje University (SPU). The SPU Division of Student Affairs (DSA) is your
Sol Plaatje University’s (SPU) Accredited Off-Campus Accommodation (AOCA) Office at SPU is thrilled to announce a significant leap forward: A cutting-edge digital accreditation model. Set for a grand launch this month, it aligns perfectly with the university’s third goal, which
As a former SPU student of Retail Business Management, Ms Angelene Maxwell set out to achieve her aspirations of succeeding as an entrepreneur. Throughout the course of obtaining her diploma, she acquired significant expertise in overseeing operations as a Store
Get ready for Sol Plaatje University‘s second annual Community Big Walk, set to return bigger, better, and more spectacular than ever before! Building on the lessons learned from last year’s event, we’re thrilled to announce a significantly enhanced and seamless
Since its inception in 2013 Sol Plaatje University has developed into a forward looking, ambitious and vibrant institution. The contents in our latest newsletter is testament to an energized culture in which staff, students and graduates are engaged, motivated, and committed
Ms Gail Motlhaudi, lecturer at the Centre for Entrepreneurship Development and Research (CEDAR), was invited this year for the second time in a row to be part of the Frances Baard District Municipality (FBDM) Schools’ Business Plan Competition. Ms Motlhaudi
On Friday 8 December 2023, Sol Plaatje University’s (SPU’s) Vice-Chancellor and Principal, Professor Andrew Crouch hosted the third annual prestigious Vice-Chancellor’s Excellence Awards at the Multipurpose Hall on South Campus. The Vice-Chancellor’s Excellence Awards aims to recognise and acknowledge exceptional
On 7 December 2023, Sol Plaatje University (SPU) was delighted to announce the launch of the Centre for Creative Writing and African Languages, situated in the newly constructed Heritage Studies and Humanities Building on Central Campus. The Centre’s primary goal
On Saturday, 25 November 2023, the University Registrar, Dr Jody Cedras, hosted the second General Meeting of the Sol Plaatje University (SPU) Convocation. The meeting was in a hybrid format with in-person attendance at the SPU South Campus Multipurpose Hall
As we usher in the festive season, Sol Plaatje University (SPU) is set to celebrate in splendid style. Professor Andrew Crouch, the Vice-Chancellor and Principal of SPU, will host the eagerly awaited third annual Vice-Chancellor’s Excellence Awards on Friday, 8
Renowned artist Professor Zakes Mda showcased his exceptional talent and captivating artistry in Kimberley, Northern Cape, on 23 November 2023, at the opening of his eagerly awaited solo exhibition, “Always The Sun,” at the William Humphreys Art Gallery (WHAG). Sol
Mr Zizi Kodwa, the Honourable Minister of Sports, Arts, and Culture, has appointed Mr Sabata-mpho Mokae, a distinguished academic, novelist, translator and author, as the Creative Industries Ambassador. Mr Mokae, a Creative Writing lecturer at Sol Plaatje University (SPU), is
On December 7, 2023, the Centre for Creative Writing and African Languages will be unveiled by Sol Plaatje University‘s School of Humanities. The Centre is deeply devoted to tackling the obstacles encountered by our society in the current era. We
The Frances Baard District Municipality (FBDM) hosted the Global Entrepreneurship Week (GEW) 2023 from 29 November to 1 December 2023 under the theme “Ideas to Impact”. Ms Gail Motlhaudi of Sol Plaatje University’s (SPU) Centre for Entrepreneurship Development and Research
On 29 November 2023, Sol Plaatje University‘s Vice-Chancellor and Principal, Professor Andrew Crouch, hosted a dinner to both welcome and induct the incoming Student Representative Council (SRC) for 2023/24 and to bid a fond farewell to the outgoing SRC members
Much fun was had on 25 November 2023 when Sol Plaatje University (SPU) hosted the Talent Pipeline Programme (TPP) Family Day in Postmasburg. Grade 10 learners together with learners, their parents and guardians, school principals, maths and science educators, gathered
The Academy for Environmental Leadership SA (AEL) signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to collaborate with Sol Plaatje University (SPU), heralding the formation of an academic node of higher learning in the Northern Cape. Amongst other benefits, the MoU allows
Sol Plaatje University (SPU) is delighted to announce that the De Beers Group has donated the Harry Oppenheimer House (HOH) building in Kimberley to the University following the relocation to Johannesburg in January 2023 of its Sightholder Sales business unit
Sol Plaatje University (SPU) hosted its second Decade Campaign Gala Dinner on Wednesday, 22 November 2023, at the SPU South Campus Multipurpose Hall. In addition to commemorating SPU’s first 10 years, the dinner’s objective was to raise funds for the
The day has officially arrived! Our much-anticipated evening at the SPU South Campus Multipurpose Hall is here, and we’re thrilled to announce that the event is completely sold out! see image attached As we gather tonight to celebrate a ‘Decade
The renowned artist, Professor Zakes Mda, brings his exceptional talent and compelling artistry to the heart of Kimberley with his eagerly anticipated solo exhibition, “Always The Sun,” at the William Humphreys Art Gallery (WHAG). The exhibition, curated by WHAG’s Chief
Exciting news! Our Decade Campaign Gala Dinner, set for 22 November 2023, is almost at full capacity with 90% of our tables already snapped up. Get ready for an unforgettable evening to raise funds for the Lesedi La Afrika Endowment
Sol Plaatje University (SPU) is celebrating the remarkable achievement of one of its own, Lesedi Bonokwane, as he embarks on an international journey of leadership and learning. Selected for the prestigious Study of the U.S. Institute for Student Leaders Program
For the first time, Sol Plaatje University (SPU) played host to the prestigious 2023 (FARF) Conference, a significant event under the banner of ‘Sustainability’. Spanning two days, 9 and 10 November, the conference was attended by experts and enthusiasts in
Sol Plaatje University (SPU) proudly congratulates Dr Moeketsi Mosia, Director of the Centre for Teaching, Learning and Programme Development (CTLPD), on his prestigious appointment as a member of the South African Young Academy of Science (SAYAS). This respected organisation is
Sol Plaatje University (SPU) played an instrumental role in the recent For Inspiration and Recognition of Science and Technology (FIRST) provincial robotics competition held in Carnarvon. The competition saw 23 teams from the Northern Cape showcase their skills in a
On Sunday, 12 November 2023, Sol Plaatje University (SPU) hosted its third annual Vice-Chancellor’s Cycle Challenge at the SPU South Campus Sports Precinct. This year’s event was particularly significant as it coincided with the university’s decade-long celebrations, making this edition
A formidable team from Sol Plaatje University (SPU), consisting of five students, has achieved remarkable success at the recent AI Mashup Hackathon. Hosted by mLab at the Galeshewe SMME Village from 3 to 5 November 2023, the event was a
As the clock counts down to the 3rd annual Vice-Chancellor’s Cycle Challenge on Sunday,12 November 2023 at the Windhoek Draught Park, Prof Andrew Crouch spoke to OFM to share the excitement. 2023 marks a milestone for SPU as we celebrate
Thami Mngqolo, a well-known figure in the entertainment industry and a proud son of the Northern Cape, is joining forces with us as a co-host of the upcoming Lesedi La Afrika Gala Dinner with Unathi. Thami’s involvement brings a special
For the first time ever, Sol Plaatje University’s (SPU) School of Economic and Management Sciences had the privilege to serve as host for the annual meeting of the South African Commerce Deans Association (SACDA), which took place on 2 and
The Chief Financial Officer (CFO) of Sol Plaatje University (SPU) Ms Annalene Marais, has been shortlisted for the Young Achiever of 2023 category at the 20th Annual Standard Bank Top Women Awards. The ceremony is scheduled for the evening of
Sol Plaatje University (SPU) is pleased to announce the upcoming launch of Decolonising African University Knowledge Volumes 1 and 2. You’re invited to join us on 10 November 2023 at Sol Plaatje University’s School of Education. The session is scheduled
Sol Plaatje University is proud to showcase the continued success of our alumni, as they make significant strides in their careers and passions. Boitumelo Makgoka, a 2019 graduate and a bright star in the realms of theatre and music, captivated
Sol Plaatje University (SPU) successfully hosted an Alumni Breakfast meeting on Saturday, 28 October 2023, in Upington. The gathering was organised by University Registrar, Dr Jody Cedras, and the Alumni Office. This event offered alumni a valuable opportunity to network,
In case you missed it, on Friday (27 October), our Dean of Student Affairs, Ms Nicole Morris, gave a compelling interview on OFM discussing the significance of Mental Health Awareness Month and Sol Plaatje University’s robust strategy to promote student
In honour of Mental Health Awareness Month, Dean of Student Affairs, Ms Nicole Morris, has outlined SPU’s commitment to mental wellness through our Student Wellness Strategy: Healthy Mind, Healthy Body, Healthy Life (click here to read the article). Don’t miss
Sol Plaatje University (SPU) is excited to host the 2023 Forum for Audit, Risk and Forensics (FARF) Conference from 9-10 November 2023 at the Multi- Purpose Hall on South Campus. The conference will be hosted under the theme ‘’Sustainability’’ and
Institutions of higher learning are often seen as hubs of academic pursuit and personal development, but they are also places where the mental well-being of students should be prioritised. At Sol Plaatje University (SPU), we recognise the importance of
In a fitting tribute to the university’s eponymous inspiration, Solomon Tshekisho Plaatje, Sol Plaatje University (SPU) has chosen to launch ‘Revisiting Sol Plaatje’s Mafeking Diary’ during the month that marks his 147th birth anniversary. Born on 9 October 1876, Plaatje
Join us on 22 November 2023, at our South Campus Multi-Purpose Hall for the Lesedi La Afrika Gala Dinner to mark a significant milestone in the journey of Sol Plaatje University. As we dedicate this evening to sustain the future,
It is important for South African students to partake in entrepreneurial initiatives and opportunities made available to them so that they can be empowered to own businesses. Recently, Vuk’uzenzele Newspaper held a dialogue with youth in Kimberly in the Northern
Sol Plaatje University (SPU) is buzzing with excitement as we roll out our Decade Celebrations Digital Hub! This online platform is more than just a webpage – it’s a virtual memory lane where we can showcase SPU’s most monumental milestones,
The School of Economic and Management Sciences will host a thought-provoking public lecture on the topic “Building sustainable retail businesses in a technology-driven environment”, delivered by an international guest from Kristianstad University in Sweden. Retail Business Management is a programme
Mark your calendars, dust off your bikes, and join us for the third annual Vice-Chancellor’s Cycle Challenge hosted by Sol Plaatje University. This year is particularly special as it coincides with our milestone 10-year celebration. When? 12 November 2023 Where?
In a significant move aimed at fostering more than just living spaces for students, SPU’s Campus Housing and Accommodation Unit (CAHAU) recently hosted two of their annual events: the CAHAU Student General Awards and the second annual Mr & Miss
On 12 October 2023, the Division of Student Affairs at Sol Plaatje University rolled out the red carpet at their South Campus Multi-Purpose Hall. The aim? To honour exceptional student leaders through the SPU Student Leadership and Excellence Awards. These
We are overjoyed to share this incredible news with you! Our very own Sol Plaatje University Male Football Coach, Mr Donald Mojaki, has been handpicked for a prestigious role. This is a testament to his outstanding skills and dedication to
Sol Plaatje University invites you to the Book Launch of Revisiting Sol Plaatje’s Mafeking Diary, edited by Sabata-Mpho Mokae and Prof Brian Willan, and published by Jacana Media. Solomon Tshekisho Plaatje, a luminary in South African literature, left an indelible
The USSA Staff Games held at the University of the Western Cape (UWC) from 6 to 7 October was an ideal opportunity for Sol Plaatje University (SPU) staff members to demonstrate their sporting prowess, also highlighting a unique aspect of
The Sol Plaatje Memorial Weekend, an annual event honouring Solomon Tshekisho Plaatje, was held on 6-7 October 2023. This year marked a milestone: a decade since the university’s establishment. Day One began with the renaming of the Luka Jantjie Courtyard
Get ready for a weekend of grandeur and celebration as Sol Plaatje University (SPU) prepares to commemorate a decade of excellence during the Annual Sol Plaatje Memorial Weekend, scheduled for 6 and 7 October 2023. This historic event coincides with
Mark your calendars, dust off your bikes, and join us for the third annual Vice-Chancellor’s Cycle Challenge hosted by Sol Plaatje University. This year is particularly special as it coincides with our milestone 10-year celebration. When? 12 November 2023 Where?
This past Saturday at the Sol Plaatje University (SPU) South Campus, the atmosphere was thick with promise as matric learners from across the Northern Cape gathered to mark the culmination of their journey with the Talent Pipeline Programme (TPP). The
For a university that’s just hit its 10-year mark, Sol Plaatje University (SPU) is making waves among South Africa’s younger generation. The institution recently secured a spot in the top 10 coolest universities, as revealed at the 2023 Sunday Times
The Chancellor of Sol Plaatje University, Judge Steven Majiedt, cordially invites you to attend the Annual Sol Plaatje Lecture on Friday, 6 October 2023 at 17:00 in the Library Auditorium on Central Campus. The keynote speaker this year is Justice
Sol Plaatje University (SPU) will be hosting the 2023 Astrolab Training Workshop, which will take place from 4 – 8 December 2023 at SPU’s Central Campus. The workshop will be attended by experts, specialists, researchers, academics, and students who will
The Sol Plaatje University (SPU) campus played host to a spectacular weekend of rugby, on 23 and 24 September, in the USSA 7s tournament, with teams competing fiercely for the coveted titles. The tournament featured both women’s and men’s divisions,
Are you interested in learning how to make a difference in your community while making money in the process? If yes, then this event is for you. The Sol Plaatje University (SPU) Centre for Entrepreneurship Development & Research (CEDAR) in
Sports experts from various sports fraternities were hosted by the Sol Plaatje University (SPU) for the High-Performance Sports Symposium at the South Campus Multipurpose Hall, on 21 September 2023. These experts addressed issues impacting the performance of sports athletes within
In a heartfelt and impactful event, Sol Plaatje University (SPU) celebrated the International Day of University Sport (IDUS) by placing a spotlight on the often-overlooked challenges faced by disabled athletes. Organised by SPU Sports in partnership with University Sports of
Commemorating the 60th anniversary of Sailor Malan’s passing, the McGregor Museum hosted a memorial lecture on 16 September 2023 at Sol Plaatje University (SPU). Dr Yvonne Malan delivered an impactful speech, “I Fear No Man”, shedding light on the life
On the early morning of 16 September 2023, Sol Plaatje University (SPU) staged its annual Birthday Colour Run at Windhoek Draught Park Stadium. This year’s event was particularly special as it forms part of SPU’s series of celebratory activities marking
Get ready for the annual Student Leadership Excellence Awards 2023, hosted by the Division of Student Affairs at Sol Plaatje University. We extend a warm invitation to all students to participate in nominating themselves or their peers for these prestigious
Sol Plaatje University’s (SPU’s) Language and Communication department in the School of Humanities rolled out the red carpet for its inaugural SPU International Language Conference. Running from 6 to 8 September 2023, the conference was housed in the SPU Central
In commemoration of the 60th anniversary of the passing of Sailor Malan, SPU’s School of Humanities invites you to celebrate the life and legacy of this extraordinary individual. The lecture titled “I Fear No Man”, delivered by Dr Yvonne Malan,
The clock is ticking as the nomination and voting dates for the 2023/24 SPU SRC and Commuter Students Council Elections draw near. This year, we’re excited to introduce some game-changing elements to the Students’ Representative Council (SRC) and a brand-new
The USSA 7s is back on home ground! Registration and the Opening Ceremony kick off on Friday, 22 September followed by non-stop rugby action on Saturday with the finals being contested on Sunday, 24 September. The matches will be played
SPU Sport in partnership with the Northern Cape Authority and the Northern Cape Department: Sports, Arts, and Culture, are set to host a High-Performance Sport Symposium. Sports experts will present key learnings on the importance of integrating health and high-performance
September is a month when South Africans are encouraged to plant a tree annually in commemoration of National Arbor Month. As part of the SPU Campus Housing and Accommodation Unit’s (CAHAU) Environmental Sustainability project, tomorrow, 9 September, CAHAU’s Green Ambassadors
We’re delighted to share that representatives from our School of Economic and Management Sciences (EMS) recently participated in the Entrepreneurship Development in Higher Education (EDHE) Lekgotla hosted by the University of the Western Cape. Prof Pierre Joubert, Head of the
A successful and highly entertaining University Sports South Africa (USSA) ESport 2023 tournament was proudly hosted by Sol Plaatje University at the South Campus Multipurpose Hall on 1-2 September. The two-day event brought together nine participating South African universities from
The SPU’s Centre for Teaching, Learning, and Programme Development (CTLPD) Student Academic Support (SAS) office recently wrapped up a Student Academic Support Services Awareness Week. Held from 28 August to 1 September 2023 at the SPU Central Campus Square, the
SPU’s Campus Housing and Accommodation Unit (CAHAU) is proud to announce that the applications for the prestigious Mr and Miss SPU 2023/24 are now officially open. If you’re an SPU student, seize this golden opportunity and apply using the link
On Wednesday, 30 August 2023, female staff at Sol Plaatje University (SPU) gathered at Luka Jantjie House for an elegant brunch, marking the conclusion of this year’s Women’s Month. Hosted by SPU’s Employee Wellness Office and sponsored by First National
The South African Broadcasting Corporation’s flagship English-language radio station, SAFM (104–107 MHz FM), is thrilled to bring listeners an extraordinary literary journey by broadcasting a special reading of Sol Plaatje’s seminal novel, Mhudi, in celebration of its centenary edition. About
The School of Humanities successfully launched the WORTH (Women in Research in the Humanities) project on 30 August 2023 with a thought-provoking colloquium. This event is a cornerstone in SPU’s strategic goal to become a research-intensive institution. The colloquium allowed
Following a consistent and excellent display of skill, sheer determination, and brilliant teamwork the Sol Plaatje University (SPU) Ladies Football team emerged as champions of the A Stream in the 2022/2023 Regional Women’s League. The journey to victory was marked
Sol Plaatje University (SPU) is delighted to introduce and celebrate the appointment of Prof Debra Meyer, our new Deputy Vice-Chancellor (DVC): Teaching & Learning. Prof Meyer, holder of a PhD from the University of California Davis and an MSc from
Women’s Month celebrations continue as we conclude the month that pays tribute to the women who marched to the Union Buildings on 9 August 1956 in protest towards the extension of Pass Laws to women. On 28 August 2023, SPU’s Campus
SPU’s School of Economic Management and Sciences (EMS), funded by the FASSET SETA and operating under the portfolio of the Centre for Teaching, Learning, and Programme Development (CTLPD), hosted its annual academic support awards ceremony for first- and second-year Bachelor
The NAS Research Committee invites you to the Fourth Talk in the NAS Seminar Series 2023 that will take place on Thursday, 31 August 2023. Event Details: Title: Investigating the Effect of Activation Functions and Sample Sizes on the Performance of Artificial Neural Network Models Through Simulation Speaker: Dr Alexander
On Saturday, 26 August, Sol Plaatje University (SPU) had the privilege of hosting two pivotal events: the Vice-Chancellor’s Breakfast with school principals and the eagerly anticipated 2023 in-person Open Day targeting learners in grades 9 to 12. These events took
The Campus Housing and Accommodation Unit at Sol Plaatje University (SPU) will be celebrating Women’s Day on 28 August 2023 under the theme ‘Embracing Equity’, which was adopted from this year’s International Women’s Day Campaign theme, with the purpose of
The School of Economic and Management Sciences invites you to its second lecture of the EMS Public Lecture Series 2023. The Public Lecture will take place as follows: Topic: Democracy and Governance in South Africa Part II. Date: 30 August
The Residence Office at the Sol Plaatje University (SPU) launched their new, official name, Campus Housing and Accommodation Unit (CAHAU) on 21 August 2023 at the SPU South Campus Multipurpose Hall. The primary objective of the event was to foster
Sol Plaatje University (SPU) is thrilled to be hosting its Open Day on Saturday, 26 August 2023 at the SPU Central Campus in Kimberley. This will be the first in-person Open Day since the COVID-19 pandemic, and we are excited
The Residence Office at Sol Plaatje University (SPU) will soon transition to its new name, the Campus Housing and Accommodation Unit (CAHAU). Although both monikers have coexisted on campus over recent months, the imminent CAHAU is eager to unveil its
Sol Plaatje University (SPU) had the privilege of hosting the Human Resource Development Council (HRDC) meeting today, 18 August 2023, at the South Campus Multipurpose Hall. The purpose of the meeting was to provide an informed update on the province’s
The School of Humanities invites you to the third Humanities Series Hybrid Talk Title: Delivery gig work organisation, workers experiences and responses in Kimberley, South Africa Speaker: Dr Crispen Chinguno, Department of Social Sciences, SPU Date: Wednesday, 23 August 2023
We are pleased to announce that Sol Plaatje University’s Professor of Economics, Emmanuel Ramos Mabugu, has published a book chapter on South Africa in The Forum of Federations Handbook of Fiscal Federalism which is available on Springer Link. The book
This month, Sol Plaatje University (SPU) is glowing with pride as we mark our 10th anniversary. We’re ushering in the celebration in a vibrant splash of colours on 16 September 2023 to commemorate this great milestone! Our Colour Run is just
Sol Plaatje University’s (SPU) School of Education in partnership with the Sentletse Foundation hosted the 2023 Geography Festival (Geo-Fest) under the theme, “Embracing my world in its entirety and all its diversity”. The event took place on 12 August 2023
Sol Plaatje University (SPU) alumni and former SRC President, Mr Thabo Moilwa, together with TeamSA, arrived in South Africa with 20 medals from the 2021 FISU Summer World University Games in Chengdu, China. Mr Moilwa was appointed as the Head
We are thrilled to announce that entries for the SPU Colour Run are officially open! Mark your calendars for 16 September 2023, as we commemorate a decade of excellence at Sol Plaatje University. Why Join the SPU Colour Run? Celebrate
The High Court of South Africa (Northern Cape Division) granted an interim Court Order to Sol Plaatje University on Tuesday, 8 August 2023. Click here to download a copy of the Court Order.
The Senior Management Team (SMT) met this morning to discuss issues raised by the Student Representative Council (SRC) in their statement released on 6 August 2023. The SMT responds to the SRC statement as follows: During July 2023, the NSFAS
The Universities of South Africa (USAf), the representative body of the 26 public universities in South Africa, has released a statement. This statement raises concerns about student financial aid and the implications of instability that could lead to deeper student
The School of Natural and Applied Sciences (NAS) Research Committee at Sol Plaatje University (SPU) hosted their Third Talk in the NAS Seminar Series 2023 titled “Advanced Materials – Development, Synthesis, Characterization, and Application”, on 3 August 2023 at Auditorium
On Thursday, 28 July 2023, SPU Sport held a cocktail function at the SPU South Campus to honour the impressive accomplishments of the teams at the University Sports South Africa (USSA) Winter Games that happened earlier in the month. This
SPU’s NAS Research Committee invites you to the Third Talk in the NAS Seminar Series 2023 that will take place on 3 August 2023. The event details are as follows: Title: Advanced Materials – Development, Synthesis, Characterization, and Application Speakers: Prof.
The Sol Plaatje University (SPU) will host the 2023 Mr and Miss SPU, under the theme, “Light of Africa”, on 14 October 2023. This year, the event will not only focus on beauty and brains, instead, students will be given
Earlier this month, Sol Plaatje University (SPU) hosted the opening night of the poignant “Places – in Me” Photovoice Exhibition, held at SPU’s Multipurpose Community Hall on the South Campus. The exhibition’s primary aim is to enlighten and broaden the
Earlier this month the University of Pretoria became the green heart of the country, hosting the annual Green Campus Conference (GCC). The theme for 2023 was “Greening beyond our campus and impacting society”, drawing participants from 18 Higher Education Institutions
In July 2023, the SPU Division of Student Affairs, along with the University of Cape Town (UCT) and Stellenbosch University (SU), presented a successful iteration of the Future-Focused Trans-Gariep Leadership programme in Cape Town, Stellenbosch, and Kimberley. The programme took
More than 800 walkers, a mix of community members, Sol Plaatje University (SPU) staff and students, made history in Kimberley when they turned out in force for SPU’s inaugural Community Big Walk on 22 July 2023. Braving the chill of
In a significant achievement, seven students from Sol Plaatje University (SPU) will proudly represent their institution at the coveted ENACTUSZA World Cup National Round on 19 July 2023 at the Sandton Convention Centre. The team comprises of President Ms Lethabo
There is a growing concern regarding the number of violent crimes affecting our country. We read and hear about students and staff being robbed, assaulted, and raped on university campuses across the country. In efforts to create a safer campus
Sol Plaatje University (SPU) is delighted to have hosted learners of the Talent Pipeline Programme (TPP) for the mid-year TPP programme. Run under the auspices of the University Vice-Chancellor’s office, the TPP began its 2023 mid-year sessions on 29 June,
Reflecting on an exhilarating run of events, we’re thrilled to announce the impressive achievements of our Gemmie teams at the University Sports South Africa (USSA) Winter Games 2023. The athletes, representing Sol Plaatje University (SPU), showcased exceptional talent and grit
Nelson Mandela Day, observed annually on 18 July, calls for people worldwide to spark transformation and inspire positive change in their communities. As our commitment to societal betterment and community well-being, Sol Plaatje University (SPU) is also participating in Mandela Day 2023. The SPU Employee Wellness Office,
The countdown has begun for our very first SPU Community Big Walk on Saturday, 22 July 2023. Part of the festivities of the day is a Flea Market, where you are able to buy or sell goods. If you would
Listen here to Sol Plaatje University’s (SPU) Chief Operating Officer, Mr David Kanguwe, talking about the inaugural SPU Community Big Walk on Radio Teemaneng, 89.1 FM. SPU is hosting its first-ever 4.9km Community Big Walk on Saturday, 22 July 2023.
On 29 June 2023, Sol Plaatje University (SPU) hosted a thought-provoking and insightful Youth Month Dialogue. In promoting critical engagement, SPU marked this month by hosting a Youth Month Virtual Dialogue for the Youth – by the Youth, themed, “Accelerating
Are you serious about your future? And prepared to put in the hard work today for a successful tomorrow? Then join our Open Day to get first-hand information about taking your academic journey to the next level. At Sol Plaatje
Sol Plaatje University (SPU) is pleased to announce the appointment of Mr Buntu Mnyaka, the Senior Manager for Student Life and Development in the Division of Student Affairs, as an additional Non-Executive Board Member of the International Conference on Public
The month of June in South Africa is deeply rooted in history. This year marks the 47th anniversary of the 16 June 1976 student uprising in Soweto when young people protested the imposition of Afrikaans by the apartheid regime as
Sol Plaatje University (SPU) will host “Places in Me” – A Photovoice Exhibition with the !Xun and Khwe of Platfontein in July and August 2023. The exhibition is a result of collaborative efforts between an international research team, COSMO-ART, two
Sol Plaatje University (SPU) has the privilege of hosting Prof Sarah Wolff, a distinguished Fulbright Scholar and Associate Professor of Mathematics at Denison University, Ohio, USA. The fruitful partnership marks a pivotal step in fulfilling SPU’s strategic goal of deepening
Sol Plaatje University (SPU’s) Library and Information Services (LIS) in collaboration with the Library and Information Association of South Africa (LIASA) and Kimberley Public Libraries are hosting a Mandela Day Book Donation Drive to enrich the language resources of the
In commemorating the 2023 Youth Day, the Sol Plaatje University (SPU) Communication and Marketing unit collaborated with the 2022/2023 Student Representative Council (SRC) as key youth representatives of the University, to be part of the youth day social media messaging
The continuous issues that South African young people confront today are deeply concerning. The country is a patchwork of colourful cultures, rich history, and amazing potential, yet our young people’s advancement is hampered by obstacles. From unprecedented high employment rates
The results of the 2023 First-Year Student Biographical Survey conducted among students at SPU confirm that SPU is growing its footprint across South Africa and is increasingly becoming the first-choice university among its students. The survey – conducted annually by
After the Honourable Minister of Higher Education, Science, and Innovation (DHET), Dr Blade Nzimande’s speech during the Department of Higher Education, Science, and Innovation’s 2023 Budget Vote, the Higher Education (HE) sector is presented with both exciting opportunities and challenging
Many educational systems around the world, including South Africa, were influenced by colonial powers. The dominant knowledge systems and curricular often reflected the Eurocentric perspectives and marginalized the indigenous knowledge people and culture. By challenging the notion that the western
Sol Plaatje University’s (SPU’s) School of Humanities held a Memorial Public Lecture in remembrance of a cherished colleague, the late Prof Karen Haire, at the SPU’s South Campus on Friday, 26 May 2023. This solemn yet significant gathering was permeated
Sol Plaatje University’s (SPU) Research Office hosted its first World Intellectual Property Day Awareness Workshop under the theme “Demystifying Intellectual Property” on 25 May 2023. World Intellectual Property Day, held annually on 26 April, was celebrated in conjunction with an
Sol Plaatje University (SPU) will soon launch the first Sol Plaatje University Community Big Walk – a day for the entire family to walk alongside other members of the wider SPU community and enjoy a range of other fun activities.
As we observe Africa Day on May 25th, it is an opportune moment to contemplate not only the trajectory that Africa has traversed but also the eminent personalities who have steered her course. Solomon Tshekisho Plaatje, commonly referred to as
Professor Karen Haire was originally from Ireland and holds an Ed.D (International Education: Language and Literacy) obtained from Columbia University, USA; MA (International Political Economy of Development), Fordham University, USA; BA Honours (French and German), Durham University, England. Prof Haire
Sol Plaatje University’s (SPU) Campus Housing and Accommodation Unit (CAHAU) hosted the first annual Campus Life Festival on Saturday, 20 May 2023, at Windhoek Draught Park Stadium and at the SPU South Campus Precinct. Yet again, students showed that the
Sol Plaatje University (SPU) takes immense pride in introducing its first two master’s graduates, Vhugala Mulaudzi and Kagiso Moroane, who are breaking new ground in their respective research fields of rural health services and the gig economy. Ms Mulaudzi and
Sol Plaatje University (SPU) invites submissions from scholars, educators, researchers, and practitioners for papers for the Scholarship of Teaching and Learning (SoTL) Conference to be held from 4 to 5 September 2023. SoTL is an important aspect of higher education
In a significant stride towards becoming a research-active institution, Sol Plaatje University (SPU) recently celebrated the graduation of its first cohort of master’s students. This event marks a momentous milestone, demonstrating the university’s commitment to pushing the boundaries of knowledge
Mark your calendars, SPU students! The Campus Housing and Accommodation Unit (CAHAU) will be hosting the first annual Campus Life Festival on Saturday, 20 May 2023, at Windhoek Draught Park Stadium and Sol Plaatje University’s South Campus Precinct. The Campus
On 10 May 2023, the Moroka Hall of Residence Exam Hall on Central Campus became the bustling epicentre for the first Career Fair post-COVID, organised by the Division of Student Affairs (DSA) at Sol Plaatje University (SPU). Students, staff, and
Letlhogonolo Thintha, the first-ever mascot of the Sol Plaatje University (SPU) in South Africa, recently sat down with the Sunday World newspaper for an exclusive interview. Thintha made his debut as “Gemmie” at the launch of the SPU Sport Brand
Graduation day is a significant event, marking the culmination of years of effort and commitment. On 6 May 2023, joyful celebrations took place at Sol Plaatje University’s 8th Graduation Ceremony, held at Mittah Seperepere Convention Centre, with proud graduates and
The Division of Student Affairs proudly presents the Future-Focused TransGariep Leadership Programme 2023. The Future-Focused TransGariep Leadership programme is an inter-institutional leadership programme in partnership with the University of Cape Town and Stellenbosch University. The programme will focus on various
Prof. Percy Sepeng Thursday, 04 May 2023. The National Assembly of South Africa has recognised and approved The South African Sign Language (SASL), making a total of 12 official languages in the country. This historic shift is a victory for
Seize the opportunity to meet an array of potential employers and explore thrilling career paths on 10 May 2023, from 08h30 to 16h00 at the Exam Hall, Moroka Hall of Residences, Central Campus. Discover a diverse mix of employers, ranging
After working for 15 years in various entry level to managerial positions at a commercial bank, Ms Veronica Ngobeni decided it was time for change. In 2017, she had a strong desire to enhance her career with a tertiary qualification
Marking 29 years of democracy and freedom in South Africa, the Division of Student Affairs at Sol Plaatje University (SPU) hosted a thought-provoking dialogue on 26 April 2023. These celebrations, however, are underscored by daily realities that often lead South
Sol Plaatje University’s (SPU) Campus Housing and Accommodation Unit (CAHAU) recognized and awarded students at its annual Residence Students Academic Awards Ceremony, at the Mittah Seperepere Convention Centre, in Kimberley. Addressing the audience, the Dean for Student Affairs, Ms Nicole
Observed in over eighty nations worldwide, May Day, now commonly referred to as Workers’ Day, prompts communities to pause and contemplate the integral role of workers, regardless of their occupation, in the advancement of their nation’s economy. Beyond this, such
The School of Economic and Management Sciences invites you to its Second seminar presentation of the EMS Seminar Series 2023. The Seminar Presentation will take place as follows: Topic: Trade Union Members’ Perception of the Effectiveness of and Satisfaction with
Congratulations to the following SPU netball players for being selected to represent the Northern Cape Diamonds Netball Team in the prestigious 2023 National Telkom League: Busisiwe Vayo – doing her first year in Bachelor of Arts Andiswa Dlamini –first year
Sol Plaatje University (SPU) is aware of an incident that took place on Friday, 21 April 2023 involving two of its students. It is alleged that a fourth-year male student assaulted a first-year female student at a residence on campus.
Sol Plaatje University (SPU) hosted a successful Alumni Dinner with Vice-Chancellor and Principal Prof Andrew Crouch on Sunday, 16 April 2023, in Kathu. The dinner provided an opportunity for alumni to network, reconnect with their alma mater and foster stronger
We are excited to announce the upcoming Graduation Ceremony for our students who have successfully completed their qualifications. The event is scheduled for Saturday, 6 May 2023, at the Mittah Seperepere Convention Centre, 10W Circular Road, West End, Kimberley. Time:
We are delighted to announce that Sol Plaatje University’s (SPU) Chief Financial Officer, Ms Annalene Marais, has been appointed as Deputy Chairperson for the South African Institute of Chartered Accountants (SAICA) Central Region Public Sector Committee. In her three-year term,
Language plays a crucial role in our lives, serving as the primary tool for expression and communication. The South African Centre for Digital Language Resources (SADiLaR), with the support of Universities South Africa (USAf), is conducting an audit of the
The School of Humanities invites you to the second Humanities Series talk. This hybrid talk will take place as follows: Title: Oral Histories, Migrations and Heritage in the African Past and Present: Great Zimbabwe and the Origins of the Nambya
As part of the Sexual and Reproductive Health (SRH) Awareness Month, the National Department of Health (NDOH), in collaboration with the Department of Higher Education and Training (DHET), the Northern Cape Department of Health (NCDOH), Sol Plaatje University (SPU), the
Sol Plaatje University (SPU) is on a mission to inspire young people to become agents of change. As one of the newest universities in the country, SPU is competing fiercely to establish the Northern Cape as a preferred destination for
Sol Plaatje University is pleased to announce that the School of Humanities will host an International Language Conference from 6-8 September 2023. The Department of Languages and Communication within the School of Humanities calls upon all academic scholars and postgraduate
Sol Plaatje University (SPU) proudly sent ten of its staff members to represent the institution at the prestigious annual ITS Integrated User Group (ITSIUG) Conference, held in Windhoek, Namibia, from 13 to 15 March 2023. The ITS Integrator System is
The Sol Plaatje University (SPU) football teams received a game changing R500 000 donation from the Northern Cape Provincial Government, courtesy of Premier Dr Zamani Saul. The generous handover took place on Wednesday, 5 April 2023 at the newly inaugurated
In line with its commitment to contributing and improving the Northern Cape community, Sol Plaatje University (SPU) recently conducted ground-breaking research led by SPU Professor Nhamo Chaukura on emerging contaminants in wastewater in the Sol Plaatje Municipality. The occurrence of
Sol Plaatje University’s (SPU) Research Office hosted the South African Sweden University Forum (SASUF) Hybrid Colloquium at the SPU Multipurpose Hall, South Campus, on 27 March 2023. In attendance was SPU senior management, academics, postgraduate students, and viewers streaming the event live on
In post-apartheid South Africa, 21 March is celebrated annually as Human Rights Day, to promote basic human rights of all South Africans as outlined in the Bill of Rights, whilst also commemorating the activism of those who put their lives
Image: National Lotteries Commission (NLC) Commissioner Ms Jodi Scholtz and SPU Vice-Chancellor and Principal, Prof. Andrew Crouch, at the unveiling of the plaque. In the heart of Kimberley, a unique facility has taken shape – a first of its kind in the Northern
Sol Plaatje University (SPU) will host the annual satellite event in the form of a hybrid colloquium during South African-Sweden University Forum (SASUF) Research and Innovation Week from 27 to 31 March 2023. This week comprises two important components: Satellite
The Division of Student Affairs of Sol Plaatje University (SPU) hosted its first Human Rights Day Dialogue on 15 March 2023, titled “Race relations in Contemporary South Africa: Addressing the Complex Challenges of Cohesion and Diversity through Human Rights”. Two
The Sol Plaatje University (SPU) Sport Precinct, a first of its kind in the Northern Cape, will be officially opened by SPU’s Vice-Chancellor and Principal Prof Andrew Crouch on 24 March 2023. SPU officials and stakeholders will be joined by
Members of the Entrepreneurship Development in Higher Education, from left to right: Frances Zowa (EDHE Admin), Dr Norah Clarke (EDHE Director), Jayde Barends (CPUT and COP Chair), Prof Pierre Joubert (SPU and COP Deputy Chair), Richardt Kok (EDHE Stakeholder Manager),
Ramos E. Mabugu, Professor of Economics in the School of Economic and Management Sciences, co-authored the most cited 2021/2022 article in the South African Journal of Economics. The journal is published by John Wiley & Sons. Ltd. Clarivate Analytics collected
SPU’s Division for Student Affairs will host a Human Rights Dialogue on 15 March 2023 from 15:30- 17:30 at the Library Auditorium on Central Campus. This year, the Human Rights Dialogue will see the participation of two esteemed thought leaders
Sol Plaatje University’s (SPU) Learning and Development office hosted a warm and welcoming staff orientation programme over the course of two days for 61 new employees from 7 – 8 March 2023 at the SPU South Campus Multipurpose Hall. SPU
THIS IS YOUR CHANCE! The EDHE Entrepreneurship Intervarsity 2023 is here! Do you have an entrepreneurial spirit and dream of starting your own business? Join us for the national launch of the 5th instalment of the EDHE Entrepreneurship Intervarsity 2023
SPU Sport hosted a fun-filled and energising Sports Day on 8 March 2023 at the SPU South Campus Sport Precinct. Students came in numbers to join in on the fun and waited eagerly to receive their funky SPU Sport t-shirt
Sol Plaatje University’s (SPU) Division of Student Affairs (DSA) held a jam-packed, fun-filled Orientation Week for first-time entering students at the SPU’s Central and South Campuses with events also taking place at the Windhoek Lager Stadium from 13-17 February 2023.
The Motsepe Foundation, in their commitment to support students in higher education, donated R1 million to the Sol Plaatje University (SPU) Student Representative Council (SRC). This donation is made to assist the SRC to carry out programmes that will alleviate
Earlier today, Sol Plaatje University management met with the Student Representative Council following student protests that led to the suspension of Registration and Orientation. The meeting agreed to the following: ACCOMMODATION The University has secured an additional 150 beds, in
Sol Plaatje University Vice-Chancellor and Principal, Prof Andrew Crouch, officially welcomed more than 1 200 first-time entering students at the prestigious Vice-Chancellor’s Official Welcome event at the Mittah Seperepere Convention Centre in Kimberley on 11 February 2023. In his welcome
Sol Plaatje University’s (SPU) Risk and Vulnerability Science Centre (RVSC) attended the fifth DSI/NRF Global Change Conference (GCC5) at the University of the Free State in Bloemfontein. The conference ran from 30 January to 2 February 2023 with the theme:
Sol Plaatje University (SPU) will officially welcome first-time entering students to the #MySPU community at the Vice-Chancellor’s Welcome Ceremony on Saturday, 11 February 2023, from 09:00 to 10:00. SPU’s Vice-Chancellor and Principal Prof Andrew Crouch and the university’s senior management team
Goratileone Oepeng is a man on a mission: he is determined to spark a sense of curiosity about the planet among students and learners, teach them about climate change and ultimately inspire them to embark on careers in the earth
Sol Plaatje University (SPU) successfully hosted the University Student Sports Association (USSA) Rugby Sevens Championship games at the Windhoek Draught Park and SPU Sports Precinct in Kimberley on 24 and 25 September 2022. Leading up to the games, a Campus Night
Born and raised in Kimberley in the Northern Cape, Ms Shanty Fisher has big hopes and dreams for her contribution to understanding the value of our shared past. Ms Fisher completed her Bachelor of Social Sciences undergraduate degree in Heritage
Sol Plaatje University (SPU) has launched its SPU Sport brand and SPU mascot, Gemmie, to help grow SPU’s presence in varsity sport competitions, and increase awareness of the larger SPU brand. The SPU Sport brand, new SPU Sport kits, and Gemmie
Sol Plaatje University is pleased to announce the appointment of Professor Debra Meyer as the Deputy Vice-Chancellor: Teaching and Learning, with effect from 1 April 2023. She will be responsible for the management of the core academic functions of the
Since opening its doors in 2014, Sol Plaatje University (SPU) has established itself as a 21st-century, engaged university that impacts socio-economic development and social justice in the region. In order to achieve its goals in line with its strategic plan
Sol Plaatje University (SPU) has once again made waves in the publishing world. Two of our Creative Writing students were notified earlier this month that their poems have been published in the renowned Calabash journal. Oratile Bodigelo and Tsholofelo Lekwene
When 2022 Sol Plaatje University (SPU) Bachelor of Education graduate Ms Akolwanosha Sakuya took her five-year-old daughter onto her graduation stage with her, it was the proudest moment of her life not just because she was graduating, but also because
Ms Sizakele Mokhele, lecturer for Creative Writing at Sol Plaatje University’s School of Humanities since October 2019, possesses a vast knowledge of literature that extends past the classroom walls. She is a published author and a renowned poet who obtained
As a member of the University Student Sports Association (USSA), Sol Plaatje University (SPU) attended several sport tournaments throughout 2022. One of many highlights this year was undoubtedly hosting the USSA Rugby 7s Championship games in September 2022. Our SPU male and female teams
Sol Plaatje University (SPU) Vice-Chancellor and Principal, Professor Andrew Crouch hosted the prestigious annual Vice Chancellor’s Awards on 9 December 2022 at the Multipurpose Community Hall, South Campus. The second Vice-Chancellor’s Awards recognised and rewarded excellence in the SPU community,
Sol Plaatje University’s (SPU) Data Science and Information Computer Technology (ICT) students proudly represented the university at the 16th National Centre for High-Performance Computing (CHPC) conference in Gauteng from 30 November to 2 December 2022. The conference was co-organised by the Data Intensive Research Initiative
The School of Economic and Management Sciences (EMS) at Sol Plaatje University (SPU) launched the Centre for Entrepreneurship Development and Research (CEDAR) on 1 December 2022 at the SPU South Campus. CEDAR will create a vibrant entrepreneurial ecosystem intended to
The Division of Student Affairs (DSA) at Sol Plaatje University (SPU) was the proud recipient of two innovation awards at the recent South African Association for Senior Student Affairs Professionals (SAASSAP) Leadership Roundtable and Awards Ceremony. DSA took home the
Sol Plaatje University (SPU) is hosting the University Sport South Africa (USSA) 2022 Chess Tournament from 4 – 9 December 2022. Participating universities include the Durban University of Technology, Mangosuthu University of Technology, Rhodes University, University of Fort Hare, University
Sol Plaatje University (SPU) Vice-Chancellor and Principal Professor Andrew Crouch hosted the Lesedi La Afrika Endowment Campaign Gala Dinner on Friday, 25 November 2022, at South Campus in Kimberley. The dinner raised funds for the Lesedi La Afrika Fund, a
World Aids Day is commemorated annually on 1 December. This year’s theme for World Aids Day is “Rock the Ribbon.” On this day, Sol Plaatje University lights a candle in the Vice-Chancellor’s Foyer to raise awareness and to remember the
On Sunday, 27 November 2022, Sol Plaatje University hosted its second annual Vice-Chancellor’s Cycle Challenge in association with the Northern Cape Cycling Federation (NCC) and Cycling South Africa (CSA). Avid cyclists lined up at the Oppenheimer Gardens in Kimberley, ready
The School of Economic and Management Sciences will launch the Centre for Entrepreneurship Development and Research (CEDAR) on 1 December 2022. The CEDAR aims to blend theory and practice to create knowledge, improve understanding and challenge critical thinking in entrepreneurship
On 16 November 2022, Sol Plaatje University’s (SPU) School of Humanities hosted its first public lecture on the life and times of Kgosi Luka Jantjie. The public lecture was held at the SPU Central Campus Library Auditorium and guests joined
Sol Plaatje University (SPU) SRC and the Division of Student Affairs (DSA) today launched the food nutrition programme where food packs were handed over to students in need. In 2022, DSA rolled out the Student Wellness Survey pilot study and
Professor Andrew Crouch, Vice-Chancellor and Principal of Sol Plaatje University (SPU), recently hosted the SPU Student Representative Council (SRC) Inauguration Dinner for incoming members of the 2022/2023 SRC. He also bid farewell to outgoing 2021/2022 members. The dinner was hosted
We are excited to announce that Sol Plaatje University will host its second annual Vice-Chancellor’s Cycle Challenge on 27 November 2022 from 08h00-14h00 at the Oppenheimer Gardens. Cyclists can choose their preferred distance between 50km and 105km. Plus there’s a
The School of Natural and Applied Science (NAS) at Sol Plaatje University (SPU) has launched its Centre for Applied Data Science (CADS) at the SPU South Campus. The launch took place on Tuesday 1 November 2022. The CADS seeks to
Sol Plaatje University was awarded a 2022 Diamond Arrow at the PMR.africa Northern Cape Provincial Survey Business Excellence Awards on 26 October 2022. The PMR.africa Awards measure companies, institutions, government entities and individuals on their contribution to the economic growth
The School of Economic and Management Sciences will host a Public Lecture on 2 November 2022 on MS Teams from 12:00 – 13:30. The lecture will be presented by Professor Zwelinzima Ndevu on the topic: Public Leadership. Professor Zwelinzima Ndevu
The Sol Plaatje University (SPU) School of Natural and Applied Science (NAS) will on 1 November 2022 launch the Centre for Applied Data Science (CADS). The establishment of the CADS seeks to contribute to the growth of data science and
On 17 to 19 October 2022, the Sol Plaatje University (SPU) School of Humanities in collaboration with the University of the Western Cape (UWC) hosted the 2nd annual Dit is ’n Noord-Kaap Ding colloquium. Academics, students, and guests from higher
SPU’s Student Representative Council (SRC) and the Division of Student Affairs recently launched the SRC Thusa Moithuti Fund. The launch took place at the SPU South Campus Hall. In his message to the SRC, students and stakeholders in attendance, SPU
The Sol Plaatje University School of Education is launching the inter-university community Science-for-the-Future (S4F) Project. It is envisaged that this collaboration will enable universities to serve as hubs for the implementation of the S4F Project in regions and provinces across
Sol Plaatje University (SPU) Library and Information Services invites you to attend the virtual two-day Open Access Symposium, under the theme Open Climate Justice. The symposium aims to create awareness around Open Access Publishing and its benefits in the research
The Sol Plaatje University (SPU) Division of Student Affairs presented the Vice-Chancellor’s Special Award to Mr Buza Kennedy Ndebele on 18 October 2022 at the inaugural Student Leadership Awards. In the Vice-Chancellor’s only award category for student leadership excellence within
Justice Steven Majiedt, Chancellor of SPU and a Constitutional Court judge, recently hosted the Standard Bank Chancellor’s Golf Day at the Kimberley Golf Club, with the aim of raising funds for the Chancellor’s Bursary Fund. Invitational teams comprised of staff
On 18 October 2022, the Sol Plaatje University (SPU) Division of Student Affairs (DSA) held its inaugural Student Leadership Awards at the Library Auditorium on Central Campus. The purpose of the awards is to recognise the outstanding contributions of SPU
Sol Plaatje University (SPU) recently launched its Centre for Continuous Professional Development (CCPD). Guests from the business community joined other stakeholders and SPU officials at the official launch during a Business Breakfast in partnership with Kumba Iron Ore at Kimberley’s
On 7 October 2022 Sol Plaatje University (SPU) hosted the Annual Sol Plaatje Lecture to honour the legacy of Solomon Tshekisho Plaatje, after whom the university is named. This year’s guest speaker for the Annual Sol Plaatje Lecture, Professor William
The Accredited Off-Campus Accommodation (AOCA) Office invites qualifying SPU students to apply for the position of Student Academic Mentor. The Student Academic Mentor will supervise the logistics in bringing together all students and stakeholders within accredited off-campus accommodation to work
Sol Plaatje University’s School of Humanities cordially invites you to the annual Dit is ‘n Noord-Kaap ding colloquium, in collaboration with the University of the Western Cape. Come and experience the language, history, natural beauty, activism, and culture of the Northern
On 7 October 2022 Sol Plaatje University (SPU) hosted the Annual Sol Plaatje Lecture at the SPU Library Auditorium to honour the legacy of Solomon Tshekisho Plaatje, after whom the university is named. The SPU community as well as members
Sol Plaatje University Data Science graduate, Mr Sylvester Molawa has been awarded the Presidency for Turks Abroad and Related Communities scholarship to study for a Master’s degree in Informatics Systems at Gazi University in Ankara, Turkey. Türkiye Scholarships is a
Sol Plaatje University (SPU) ICT department hosted the Higher Education Information Technology South Africa (HEITSA) Spring General Institutional Meeting (SGIM) on 27 and 28 of September 2022 at its South Campus Conference Facility in Kimberley. SPU Vice-Chancellor and Principal, Prof
Invitation to attend the second CEN-FREE-SOL Book Fair The second CEN-FREE-SOL book fair, which is the brainchild of three universities, namely the Central University of Technology, the University of the Free State and the Sol Plaatje University, draws expertise from
Sol Plaatje University will on 7 October 2022, host the Annual Sol Plaatje Lecture. Guest Speaker for the public lecture, Professor William Gumede, from School of Governance at the University of the Witwatersrand and the Founder and Chairman of the
It is with great sadness to announce the untimely death of Sol Plaatje University (SPU) student, Ms Karabo Mocks who resided in the Moroka Residence. Ms Mocks was a third year Education student and passed away at home after a
The Green Campus Initiative, popularly known as the GCI #ILOVEMYCAMPUS INITIATIVE, will kick start Green Week from 23 – 30 September 2022. The initiative will host a ‘Keeping Kimberley Clean’ project to clean up the Oppenheimer Gardens which is an
The Sol Plaatje University (SPU) Information and Communication Technology (ICT) Department will on 28 and 29 September 2022 host the Higher Education Information Technology South Africa (HEITSA) Spring General Institutional Meeting. HEITSA collectively leads the application of digital capabilities to
In celebration of the International Day of University Sports – and to herald our hosting of the University Sports South Africa (USSA) men’s and women’s Rugby Sevens Championships – you’re invited to participate in the Sol Plaatje University (SPU) Campus
The Sol Plaatje University (SPU) Residence Office is inviting interested establishments to apply for accreditation as off-campus accommodation with the university in 2023. We have updated our documents for accreditation applications. Kindly click on the below links to access the documents. DHET
The SPU Division of Student Affairs, Student Life and Development Office, and the Student Representative Council (SRC) will launch the SRC Thusa Moithuti Fund, where we will also introduce the SPU Student Nutritional Wellness Programme on 29 September 2022. The
Sol Plaatje University (SPU) is proud to be the hosts of the University Sports South Africa (USSA) men’s and women’s Rugby Sevens Championships from 20 to 25 September 2022. In a series of competitive rugby matches, South African university students
An important milestone was reached on 9 September 2022 when Sol Plaatje University’s Risk and Vulnerability Science Centre (RVSC) celebrated its first year of existence, having been founded on 1 September 2021. The centre is the first research centre to
Dr Crispen Chinguno, Senior Lecturer of Sociology in the Department of Social Science and Chair of postgraduate studies in Sol Plaatje University’s (SPU) School of Humanities, has recently been announced as a South Africa Sociology Association (SASA) council member for
The Sol Plaatje University (SPU) Residence Office is inviting interested establishments to apply for accreditation as off-campus accommodation with the university in 2023. We have updated our documents for accreditation applications. Kindly click on the below links to access the documents. DHET
A memorial service was held on 31 August 2022 to remember Dr Thomas Masvosve, Head of the Natural Science Teaching Department at Sol Plaatje University (SPU). SPU Vice-Chancellor and Principal Professor Andrew Crouch shared his memories of Dr Masvosve, who
In a fitting finale to the Sol Plaatje University (SPU) Women’s Month Wellness Series, the HR Employee Wellness office partnered with First National Bank (FNB) to host a Women’s Month brunch in the courtyard of Luka Jantjie House. “We celebrate the
On 30 August 2022, staff, students, and friends of the late Mr Azwilondzi Mahada gathered at Sol Plaatje University’s (SPU’s) Central Campus to pay their respects at a memorial service held in honour of Mr Mahada, SPU Head of Campus
Mr Imraan Khan has been appointed as Sol Plaatje University’s (SPU’s) first Chief Information Officer (CIO). The CIO is responsible for all SPU information and data integrity matters and reports to Vice-Chancellor and Principal Professor Andrew Crouch. “Having joined the
Sol Plaatje University’s (SPU’s) Dean of Student Affairs, Ms Nicole Morris, has issued a directive relating to the House Committee electoral rules and procedures for 2023. These elections target both on-campus and accredited off-campus house committees. Among other important information,
In the early hours of 20 August 2022, Sol Plaatje University (SPU) hosted its annual Birthday Colour Run at the Windhoek Lager Park stadium, as part of the celebrations of SPU’s birthday. Runners could choose between running distances of 5km,
Government gets R90 billion a year from fuel levies.
Since its inception in 2013, Sol Plaatje University has made significant progress and has grown to become a permanent presence in Kimberley, the Northern Cape, and the South African Higher Education Sector. Today we reflect on our purpose, and the
Sol Plaatje University (SPU) in partnership with ENtrepreneurship ACTion for others creates a better world for US (ENACTUS) launched its student entrepreneurial initiative on 17 August 2022 on Central Campus. In conjunction with the launch, a campus activation programme was
Lace up your trainers and join us! To celebrate Sol Plaatje University’s upcoming birthday, the SPU Sport Office will host its second annual fun Colour Run on 20 August 2022. Celebrations will take place at the Windhoek Lager Park. Vice-Chancellor
Each year during August, Sol Plaatje University (SPU) hosts a public lecture celebrating Women’s Month and the critical role women play in our society. This year’s lecture was delivered by retired Justice of the Constitutional Court and former Chair of
Sol Plaatje University’s (SPU’s) School of Economic and Management Sciences recently signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with the Association of Chartered Certified Accountants (ACCA) to strengthen relationships between the two institutions. The groups are working together to ensure the
Sol Plaatje University together with the Namibia University of Science and Technology were announced as the joint winners of South African Research and Innovation Management Association (SARIMA) award for Organisational Growth Research Management. SARIMA is a member association for all
Sol Plaatje University’s School of Economic and Management Sciences (EMS) Senior Lecturer, Dr Edward Dakora, has been appointed to serve on the Governance Board of the W&R Leadership Chair (WRLC) based in the Faculty of Business and Management Sciences at
On 05 August 2022, Sol Plaatje University, in partnership with the Human Sciences Research Council (HSRC) and the Department of Science and Innovation (DSI) and SUN PReSS hosted a book launch at Sol Plaatje University. The book, entitled “Universities, Society
Sol Plaatje University (SPU) invites members of the public and the SPU community to join in the conversation as we host Judge Yvonne Mokgoro as our Guest Speaker for the annual SPU Womens Month Public Lecture. The event takes place
From left to right: Ms Tracey Webster, Chief Executive Officer: Oppenheimer Memorial Trust; Professor Andrew M. Crouch, Vice-Chancellor and Principal; Ms Bailey Corder, Operations Manager: Oppenheimer Memorial Trust On Tuesday, 02 August 2022, Sol Plaatje University hosted a delegation from
A team of Sol Plaatje University (SPU) Data Science students has placed among the top 14% of data scientists taking part in a global competition to use historical product and customer meta data to develop a personalised customer recommendation system
Feenix, a public benefit crowdfunding organisation that connects university students who owe outstanding fees with funder communities, has recently raised more than R1,1 million to settle the historic debt of 15 Sol Plaatje University (SPU) students in order for them
As part of the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between Sol Plaatje University (SPU) and the Office of the Public Service Commission (PSC) in Kimberley; the two institutions are actively involved in engagements that seek to uplift and educate not only
Dear SPU Community Welcome to the start of the second semester of the 2022 academic year. It has been a source of immense pride that we are one of only a handful of universities in the country that has managed
“On this Mandela Day, I am reflecting on playing my part for the common good and how I can be of service to others through my actions”. Professor Andrew M Crouch, Vice-Chancellor and Principal.
The Centre for Entrepreneurship & Rapid Incubator (CfERI), in Upington, which has as its main mandate to support and establish SMME’s located in the ZF Mgcawu Municipal District was officially incorporated into the Sol Plaatje University (SPU) on 1 June
The School of Humanities, at Sol Plaatje University (SPU), successfully hosted the 27th South African Sociological Association Conference (SASA), between 10 – 13 July 2022, which was preceded by a pre-conference doctoral workshop that attracted over 15 doctoral fellows from
Dressed in their new Gemsbok kits, Sol Plaatje University (SPU) students on the hockey, rugby, netball, volleyball and dance sport teams headed to Cape Town between 29 June and 9 July 2022 to compete in the most recent round of
Standing L to R: Adv Anthony Mac Minn, Ms Marne Botha, Mr Mark Everett, Cllr Stanley Peterson, Prof Pierre Joubert. Seated: Cllr. Maureen Basson and Prof Andrew Crouch The Centre for Entrepreneurship & Rapid Incubator (CfERI) was established in 2017
Former SRC president Thabo Moilwa has continued to be an admirable ambassador for Sol Plaatje University (SPU). Just three years after graduating, Moilwa has climbed the corporate ladder fast and is now a Deputy Headmaster responsible for Special Projects, Finance,
Sol Plaatje University (SPU) Vice-Chancellor and Principal Professor Andrew Crouch recently hosted the SPU Talent Pipeline Programme (TPP) Farewell Ceremony, which bid farewell to 23 matric learners from various schools across the Northern Cape. The TPP was launched in October
Sol Plaatje University (SPU) celebrated Africa Day on 25 May 2022 through an interactive programme offering hosted by the Student Development Office, a unit within the Division of Student Affairs. The day’s events and proceedings provided a platform for students
An intimate farewell luncheon was held on Friday, 1 July 2022 in honour of Ms Christine-Ann Paddon, to thank her for her service and invaluable contribution to Sol Plaatje University (SPU). She joined SPU on 1 August 2015 as Director
Two Sol Plaatje University (SPU) academics are among the delegates from 23 South African universities taking part in the South Africa Higher Education and Research Week in Paris, France from 27 June to 2 July 2022. The week-long programme, organised
This year marks the 46th anniversary of the 16 June 1976 Soweto uprising, and as part of the national commemoration of this landmark day Sol Plaatje University (SPU) hosted its annual Youth Month Public Lecture on 24 June 2022. The
“Athletics is a beautiful sport that unites society,” says Gail Motlhaudi, lecturer in Sol Plaatje University’s (SPU) School of Economic and Management Sciences and member of the Athletics Griqualand West (AGW) board since March 2022. Given her dual roles as
Following a directive of the Vice-Chancellor and Principal dated 15 June 2022 with regards to June vacation accommodation, a committee has been established to facilitate the process of vetting requests from students who cannot go home during the June holidays.
Sol Plaatje University (SPU) Creative Writing lecturer and acclaimed novelist Mr Sabata-mpho Mokae has won a Multilingualism Award from the Pan South African Language Board (PanSALB). The PanSALB Multilingualism Awards took place in Sandton, Johannesburg on 15 June 2022. “Winning
Sol Plaatje University (SPU) Vice-Chancellor and Principal Professor Andrew Crouch has sent a message of support to the Griqualand West Rugby Union (GWRU) wishing the Windhoek Draft Griquas well ahead of their Currie Cup showdown against the Airlink Pumas. The
You are invited to join us in commemorating Youth Month by attending the annual Sol Plaatje University (SPU) Youth Month Public Lecture, presented by Professor Jesmael Mataga, SPU Associate Professor: Heritage and Museum Studies. The event takes place as follows: Date: Friday, 24
June 2022 marks 90 years since Solomon Plaatje passed away. As part of celebrating and reflecting on his life and legacy, Sol Plaatje University’s (SPU) School of Humanities, in conjunction with Xarra Books, will launch a Setswana biography, ‘Solomon Tshekisho
Following the student disruptions that took place this morning and the resultant damage across campus, the Senior Management Team (SMT) met and resolved to suspend all academic activities for today, Friday 17 June 2022. SMT will reassess the situation on
A group of disgruntled students led by the Student Representative Council, who are refusing to abide by the University Residence Rules, have undertaken protest action this morning. They have vandalised infrastructure, strewn garbage inside residences and examination venues and are
Sol Plaatje University’s (SPU) School of Education will train maths and science teachers across the Northern Cape in a multi-million-rand project. The University is one of six universities participating in the programme that has been established by SANRAL and the
Dear SPU Students Following the communication that was shared with you on 7 June 2022, in line with the Residence Rules, as signed at the beginning of the year by all the residence students, my office would like to inform
A team of students from the Sol Plaatje University (SPU) Department of Computer Science and Information Technology has won first prize in the 2022 ITWeb Security Summit Hackathon, taking home a cash prize of R20 000. Two teams from SPU
There were cheers and ululation as the first group of Sol Plaatje University (SPU) support staff members who took part in the FoodBev SETA – and SPU- funded Adult Education and Training (AET) programme received their Learning Area Certificates. The
The Sol Plaatje University (SPU) Residences Unit recently hosted the very first SPU Residences Academic Awards ceremony. The event was held on Saturday 28 May at Kimberley’s Mittah Seperepere Convention Centre to honour residence students for their academic achievements. Awards
Dear SPU Students For those students who live in Accredited Off-Campus Accommodation and are awaiting clarity on their funding status from either NSFAS or Funza Lushaka, the University will inform the various landlords that the matter should be resolved by
The University’s men’s table tennis team did not disappoint, and took third place at the USSA Table Tennis Championship after competing against four South African universities – Free State, KwaZulu-Natal, Western Cape, and Limpopo. The 2021 championship was postponed to
Sol Plaatje University (SPU) has launched its SPU Sport brand and SPU mascot, Gemmie, to help grow SPU’s presence in varsity sport competitions, and increase awareness of the larger SPU brand. The SPU Sport brand, new SPU Sport kits, and
Sol Plaatje University (SPU) is to host the 27th South African Sociology Association (SASA) conference from 10 to 13 July 2022, themed “Sociology and the COVID-19 pandemic: Reimagining the present and future”. The local organising committee is chaired by the
Left to right: SPU Student at the seminar presentation with Ms Monica Boland, Ms Kopano Rwasoka, Dr Harry Kuchah Kuchah, Mr George Moloi and Ms Vuyo Makubalo. A four-week visit to Sol Plaatje University (SPU) by a Fellow of the
Dear SPU Community The Council on Higher Education (CHE) is delegated through the Higher Education Act, Act 101 of 1997 and the National Qualifications Framework Act, Act 67 of 2008 to, through the Higher Education Quality Committee (HEQC), a permanent
Sol Plaatje University (SPU) is pleased to invite you to join us online to watch the official launch of the SPU Sport Brand on Friday, 27 May 2022. Since opening its doors in 2014, SPU has emphasised the importance of sports and recreation
The Sol Plaatje University Centre for Teaching, Learning and Programme Development (CTLPD) has steadily increased its use of learning analytics to measure, collect, analyse, and report on the data about learners and their contexts, with the aim of understanding and
Professor Pierre Joubert and Dr Norah Clarke during the EAO workshop visit at Sol Plaatje University. After hosting the National Student Entrepreneurship Week last year, Sol Plaatje University (SPU) is set to be one of 10 South African universities to
Refilwe Shere is one of four South African students representing the country in the 2021 Study of the US Institute (SUSI) programme. The annual programme is for student leaders between 18 and 25 years old to improve their understanding of
Rewind to the beginning of 2022, and the 2021 matriculants from three local high schools in Postmasburg faced a dismal future despite having successfully passed and having the necessary scores to study at a university. Except for the resources to
The Risk and Vulnerability Science Centre (RVSC) at Sol Plaatje University (SPU) has three exciting and dynamic post-doctoral positions available. The RVSC is a newly established research entity at SPU which focuses on climate and global change risks and vulnerabilities
World Hypertension day is celebrated annually on 17 May. The theme for this year is “Know Your Numbers – Measure Your Blood Pressure Accurately – Control It – Live Longer”. The main aim of this day is to educate the
Dear SPU Community The COVID-19 infection rate across the country have increased as we entered this fifth wave of the pandemic. Sol Plaatje University has been fortunate to escape high levels of infection in the past and we will continue
On Saturday, 7 May 2022, Judge Steven Majiedt, Chancellor of Sol Plaatje University, presided over the University’s largest graduation ceremony since it began operating in 2014. 571 undergraduate and postgraduate students graduated at the first in-person ceremony, since 2019, which
Dear Graduate Please note that graduates who could not attend the Graduation Ceremony on Saturday 7 May 2022 can collect their certificates at the Registrar’s foyer at Luka Jantjie House, weekdays from 08:15 to 13:00 and 14:00 to 16:15, throughout
Dr Garth Benneyworth, Head of Sol Plaatje University’s Department: Heritage Studies in the School of Humanities, was recently interviewed on the TV news channel eNCA about the state of the South African National Defence Force (SANDF). The interview followed reports
Seven months after its launch, the Risk and Vulnerability Science Centre (RVSC) at Sol Plaatje University (SPU) has appointed its first post-doctoral fellow. Dr Abimbola Oluwalana will conduct research which seeks to respond to the growing climate change challenges faced
Machine Learning For Air Pollution Prediction (Reference No. PD/02-2022) A dynamic and innovative post-doctoral position is available at the Sol Plaatje University (SPU) Risk and Vulnerability Science Centre (RVSC) in the fields of computer, data and environmental sciences. Bringing together
The Department of Institutional Advancement (DIA) at Sol Plaatje University (SPU) has launched its first alumni newsletter, named Alumni News, aimed at connecting with the growing pool of SPU graduates. The first issue was distributed to alumni on Wednesday, 13
It is that most wonderful time of the year again – a time to celebrate the success of our students. Sol Plaatje University’s seventh graduation ceremony is set to take place on Saturday, 7 May 2022, at the Mittah Seperepere
The reduction of environmental pollution has offered countries the opportunity to start from a position of reduced pollution. Photo by Wikus de Wet/AFP via Getty Images Measures adopted to control the spread of the COVID pandemic resulted in a worldwide
From left to right: Professor Andrew M. Crouch, Vice-Chancellor and Principal; Professor Aifheli Gelebe, Head of School: Natural and Applied Sciences; Mr Hollie Clarkson, Member of Council; Mr Rathnum Naidoo, Outgoing University Registrar; Ms Stella Mosimege, Member of Council; Mr
DOWNLOAD THE NEW AND REFINED SOL PLAATJE UNIVERSITY BRAND GUIDE BY CLICKING HERE. The Sol Plaatje University (SPU) Department of Institutional Advancement (DIA) has been involved in a rigorous brand refocusing exercise to reposition the University brand. As a result
The Sol Plaatje University (SPU) Health & Wellness Centre, in collaboration with the SPU Legal Office, will launch its Gender-Based Violence (GBV) Awareness Campaign on Wednesday, 30 March 2022. The campaign is a collaboration between key external stakeholders including Lifeline,
Dear SPU Community Following the announcement on Tuesday 22 March 2022, by President Cyril Ramaphosa, that the country was moved to an Adjusted Alert Level 1, we have modified some of our health and safety protocols on campus. The following
Back: The Grade 12 Talent Pipeline Programme (TPP) learners and their mentors. Front row (left to right): Mr Otsile Seakeco, TPP Programme Coordinator; Ms Puleng Motsamai, TPP Programme Coordinator; Dr Jody Cedras, University Registrar; Judge Steven Majiedt, SPU Chancellor; Ms
Despite a challenging economy and the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, Sol Plaatje University (SPU) registered 1 650 first-year students in 2022, an increase of 80% over 2021’s figure of 917 first-years. The 1 650 new first-year registrations also exceeds the target
Today (24 May) is World Tuberculosis Day. Tuberculosis, also known as TB, is one of the biggest causes of death in South Africa. It is a communicable disease that is airborne, spread by small sputum particles through sneezing and coughing.
Sol Plaatje University (SPU) staff and student leaders from the Department of Student Affairs visited Bophelo Child and Youth Care Centre in Kimberley as part of a community outreach initiative at which they handed over delicious treats to children. Bophelo
If you have an Android-based phone* and would like to have information about Sol Plaatje University (SPU) at your fingertips, you can now download the MySPU app to your phone and access a range of SPU services, maps and news
The Library and Information Services has introduced a new library system Alma and its discovery tool, Primo VE. Primo VE is a leading library discovery tool, developed specifically for a modern academic library in the 21st century. It is used
Recycling took centre stage when the Sol Plaatje University Green Campus Initiative (#SPUGCI) ambassadors visited the Mhudi, Rhataga, Tauana, and Moroka residences to educate students about recycling bins. The Green Campus Initiative was established to promote environmental sustainability interventions. The
The Vice-Chancellor and Principal, Professor Andrew Crouch together with the Chief Operating Officer, Mr David Kanguwe and the Advisor in the Vice-Chancellor’s Office, Mr Rathnum Naidoo met yesterday with a delegation from the SRC led by the SRC President, Mr
They are the lucky few, it was emphasised to the more than 1 400 first-time entering students of the Sol Plaatje University (SPU) in Kimberley. On welcoming the 2022 intake at the Mittah Seperepere Convention Centre in the city, Prof.
Dear SPU Community As communicated earlier this week, online classes were scheduled to take place from Wednesday to Friday. I am happy to announce that we had a positive attendance in the online sessions. The academic year will move into
To the SPU Community Further to the statement released this morning, please be advised that the Senior Management Team (SMT) met at 12:00 today to deliberate on the way forward. The University upholds the right to peaceful protest that does
To the SPU Community Earlier this morning a number of students blocked the main entrances on the North and Central Campuses of Sol Plaatje University (SPU). The Management of the University has engaged continuously with the Student Representative Council (SRC)
Dear SPU Community The Vice-Chancellor’s Directive on COVID-19 Vaccinations sets out the University’s position on mandatory COVID-19 vaccinations. In the interest of maintaining our health and safety, during the COVID-19 pandemic, all staff, students and contractors who want to come
Dear SPU Students Please take note of the below changes regarding the start to the 2022 academic year and late registrations for returning students: 1. Start of the 2022 academic year Please note that the 2022 academic year will commence
“A journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step.” The Sol Plaatje University (SPU), Vice-Chancellor and Principal Professor Andrew Crouch delivered this message to Grade 12 students during a three-day visit to high schools in the Northern Cape’s
Dear SPU Students Please note that all returning students are allowed to return to their respective residences from Wednesday, 16 February 2022, permitting that they have registered academically online and have applied in 2021 to return to residence. All residence
Sol Plaatje University (SPU) on Monday 24 January 2022 hosted Parliament’s Portfolio Committee on Higher Education, Science and Innovation (PPCHESI). The visit was the first stop on the Committee’s five-day tour of the Northern Cape, during which members of parliament
Dear SPU Community It is with great pleasure that I introduce Dr Jody Cedras, our new University Registrar, who took up the position on 1 January 2022. Dr Cedras holds a Doctor of Administration in Public Management from the University
To the SPU Community Further to the Directive on COVID-19 Vaccinations that was issued on 9 December 2021, please note that staff and students must, at least, have had their first round of COVID-19 vaccinations by 21 February 2022 in
Novel and innovative technologies integrated with conventional methods for removing of emerging pollutants from wastewater in the Northern Cape (Reference No. PD/01-2022) A dynamic and innovative post-doctoral position is available at the Sol Plaatje University (SPU) Risk and Vulnerability Science
Sol Plaatje University (SPU) congratulates the first group of 17 SPU support staff members taking part in the FoodBev SETA – and SPU – funded Adult Education and Training (AET) programme. The AET programme at SPU is offered to staff
Dr Frederick Botha, an Afrikaans lecturer in the School of Humanities, has been elected a member of the Council of the Suid-Afrikaanse Akademie vir Wetenskap en Kuns (South African Academy for Science and Arts). The Academy is a multidisciplinary organisation
Sol Plaatje University (SPU) hosted the 2021 University Sport South Africa (USSA) Heads of Sport Forum in a landmark event in November 2021. The conference, which takes place every two years, aims to find the best university sports practices in
With the vaccination ramping up in importance to allow South Africa to move towards herd immunity, the University’s Health and Wellness Centre launched its vaccination campaign in September 2021. The campaign, which included free vaccinations for staff and students, had
School of Economic and Management Sciences’ (EMS) lecturer, Ms Gail Motlhaudi, received an award for her contribution to the development of entrepreneurs in South Africa at the 3rd Annual Entrepreneurship Awards hosted by the Entrepreneurship Development in Higher Education (EDHE).
The COVID-19 vaccination is one of the important ways to make the world safe for you, your family and others which whom you come into contact. Play your part in the fight against COVID-19 by choosing vaccination for an added
Ms Nicole Morris The Office of the Vice-Chancellor welcomed the first Dean of Students at Sol Plaatje University (SPU), Ms Nicole Morris, on 1 July 2021. Ms Nicole Morris is a young dynamic woman who has a deep passion for
Outgoing SPU Chairperson of Council, Judge Yvonne Mokgoro Outgoing Sol Plaatje University (SPU) Chair of Council, Judge Yvonne Mokgoro, was honoured at a special farewell dinner at the Protea Hotel Kimberley on 24 November 2021. Judge Mokgoro is SPU’s first
Women are more likely to work in sectors hit hard by the pandemic, like hospitality. Guillem Sartorio/AFP There is no doubt that the pandemic has had a devastating impact on South Africa and its economy. During economic crises, women often pay a
Sol Plaatje University (SPU) Vice-Chancellor and Principal, Professor Andrew M Crouch, will, on Friday, 10 December 2021, kickstart SPU’s decade celebrations by launching its first endowment campaign and he will host the inaugural Vice-Chancellor’s Awards for Excellence. In 2024, SPU
The Council and Management of Sol Plaatje University makes every effort to ensure the health and safety of our students, staff and visitors. While the COVID-19 pandemic continues unabated it is imperative that we put in place measures to safeguard
Gender Based Violence (GBV) has become a scourge in human society and in South Africa it takes on a persistent and brutal form that demands a determined effort towards eradicating this de-humanising behaviour. Sol Plaatje University does not condone any
What do these have to do with mathematics? In this case, everything. The University of Free State’s (UFS) Family Math initiative is a programme, funded by SANRAL and developed by the Science for- the-Future (S4F) employees at UFS. Dr Cobus
Judge Steven Majiedt, Mrs Lynnette Crouch, Mrs Rowena Majiedt and Professor Andrew Crouch Sol Plaatje University (SPU) installed its second Vice-Chancellor and Principal, Professor Andrew M Crouch, at a ceremony held at the SPU Community Hall on Friday, 26 November
On Friday, 26 November 2021, Professor Andrew M Crouch will be installed as Sol Plaatje University’s 2nd Vice-Chancellor and Principal. We had hoped to have the Installation soon after Professor Crouch took office on 1 April 2020. However, the national
The School of Economic and Management Sciences invites you to a public lecture titled “The State of Democracy in South Africa” with guest speakers, Professor Narnia Bohler-Muller, HSRC Group Executive: Shared Services & Divisional Executive at the Human Sciences Research
On 7 November 2021, Dr Hendrik Conradie, Senior Lecturer: Public Management in the School of Economic and Management Sciences, was invited by Kurara FM to discuss the recent Local Government elections in South Africa. The interviewer focused on the changing
On Sunday, 7 November 2021, Sol Plaatje University (SPU) academics Professor Brian Willan and Creative Writing lecturer Sabata Mpho-Mokae, won the South African Literary Award (SALA) for the book compiled and co-edited titled Sol T. Plaatje: A life in letters. The book
On Friday, 26 November 2021, Professor Andrew M Crouch will be installed as Sol Plaatje University’s 2nd Vice-Chancellor and Principal. We had hoped to have the Installation soon after Professor Crouch took office on 1 April 2020. However, the national
In May 2021, Sol Plaatje University (SPU) invited architectural practices to participate in an architectural design competition endorsed by the South African Institute of Architects (SAIA). The competition was made up of two stages. In the first stage, architects submitted
The Installation of Professor Andrew M Crouch as the 2nd Vice-Chancellor and Principal of Sol Plaatje University will be held on Friday, 26 November 2021 from 10:00 to 12:00 at the Sol Plaatje University Community Hall on South Campus in
The School of Economic and Management Sciences (EMS) at Sol Plaatje University hosted the South African Institute for Chartered Accountants (SAICA) Business Games on Saturday, 23 October 2021. Learners from six schools in Kimberley fielding the Top 15 in both
Sol Plaatje University’s (SPU) Student Representative Council (SRC) and crowdfunding Public Benefit Organisation, The Feenix Trust, has joined forces in the SRC Ubuntu Initiative to support two Education students in need of a funding boost to secure their academic future.
On behalf of the CenFreeSol Book Fair, it is pleasure to extend an invitation to you to be part of this very first book fair to be hosted. The book fair, which is the brainchild of three universities, namely the
Melvin Kisten was selected by a panel of judges from the chapter of the Geekulcha Student Society at Sol Plaatje University (SPU) and voted by the public as one of the Top 15 Young Geeks in South Africa for 2021.
The School of Humanities invites you to attend the book launch of Museums as Agents for Social Change by Dr Njabulo Chipangura and Professor Jesmael Mataga. Summary Museums as Agents for Social Change is the first comprehensive text to examine
On Sunday, 17 October 2021, Sol Plaatje University, in association with the Northern Cape Cycling Federation and Cycling SA hosted the inaugural Vice-Chancellor’s Cycle Challenge. The event was supported by, amongst others, First National Bank, FUNDI, the Sol Plaatje Local
Tshegofatso Andries, a B.Ed student who was recently awarded her degree at Sol Plaatje University’s (SPU) 2021 Virtual Graduation Ceremony, was appointed as a Core Lecturer for the Habitable Planet Workshop (HPW). This programme run by the Applied Centre for
The School of Natural and Applied Sciences is excited to announce the establishment of a Risk and Vulnerability Science Centre (RVSC) at Sol Plaatje University (SPU) – the first research centre to be established at SPU. The Department of Science and
The 5th annual gathering of leaders in Entrepreneurship Development in Higher Education (EDHE) will take place in a hybrid mode from 11 to 14 October 2021 at the University of Pretoria. This event has become a significant engagement platform for
On Friday, 8 October 2021, the University will host its annual Sol Plaatje Lecture. Our guest speaker, Professor Sekepe Daniel Matjila, will talk about “Plaatje’s role in constructing a body of knowledge about Batswana culture” as the theme of engagement.
The SRC elections were held on 5 and 6 October 2021 for the twenty-seven nominations on the ballot. A total of 1344 (49.4%) students voted in these elections. The following candidates will comprise the 2021/2022 SRC, subject to final verification
Dear SPU Community Following the announcement on Thursday 30 September 2021, by President Cyril Ramaphosa, that the country was moved down to Alert Level 1, we have adjusted some of our health and safety protocols on campus. The following will
Dr Sibongile Masuku, a lecturer in Museum and Heritage Studies at Sol Plaatje University, has been appointed as the honorary national chairperson of the Culture Thematic Area to the South African National Commission for UNESCO by the Minister of Sports,
The 41 Talent Pipeline Programme (TPP) learners and their mentors on Central Campus Square. The much-anticipated Sol Plaatje University (SPU) Talent Pipeline Programme (TPP) was launched on Saturday, 2 October 2021 by Professor Andrew M Crouch, the Vice-Chancellor and
Ms Nicole Morris, the newly appointed Dean of Student Affairs at Sol Plaatje University (SPU), was elected to serve on the University Sport Company (USC) Board of Directors for a three-year term alongside six other members from various universities in South
State-owned enterprises, such as Transnet, which runs South Africa’s ports, loom large over the economy. Getty Images Margaret Chitiga-Mabugu, University of Pretoria; Helene Maisonnave, Université Le Havre Normandie; Martin Henseler, Université Le Havre Normandie, and Ramos Emmanuel Mabugu, Sol Plaatje
Sol Plaatje University in collaboration with Data Science Africa (DSA) will hold a virtual Summer School and Workshop from 4 to 8 October 2021. The theme for this year’s events is “Women and Data in Africa”. DSA is aiming to
In celebration of Heritage Month, the School of Humanities cordially invites you to a Public Lecture titled: “Lest we forget. The story of political prisoners who died whilst serving sentences on Robben Island Maximum Security Prison. The case study of
Sol Plaatje University is proud of Chad Lucas, a final year BCom student who has been selected as the Deputy Chairperson of the national Entrepreneurship Development in Higher Education (EDHE) Studentpreneur Community of Practice (CoP), and already owns a promising
Come discover and explore one of South Africa’s best kept secrets. Experience the language, history, natural beauty, activism and culture of the Northern Cape like it has never been showcased before this Heritage Month. The Inaugural Dit is ‘n Noord-Kaap
The Northern Cape might be South Arica’s largest province, but it has the sad distinction of also having the lowest level of education among South African youth. So said Vice-Chancellor and Principal of Sol Plaatje University (SPU), Professor Andrew Crouch.
Dear SPU Community Following the announcement on Sunday, 12 September 2021, by President Cyril Ramaphosa, that the country was moved down to Alert Level 2, we have adjusted some of our health and safety protocols on campus. The following will
Sol Plaatje University’s (SPU) School of Economic and Management Sciences (EMS) signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) with the Universiti Teknologi MARA (UiTM) in Malaysia which will pave the way for the promotion and collaboration on international academic and research
The late mkhulu Vuzamazulu Credo Mpumelelo Mutwa who called himself an isanusi, which is a type of Zulu diviner, would have been 100 years old on 21 of July 2021. In 2020 on his 99th birthday, Sol Plaatje University (SPU)
Register with Feenix and start your #MySPU fundraising journey today! Are you in need of financial support to sustain your tertiary education? Do you have current or historic debt? If you said yes to any of the above, then you
On behalf of the Department Higher Education and Training (DHET) and Universities South Africa (USAF) in partnership with Sol Plaatje University, we bring you the free hybrid National Launch of Student Entrepreneurship Week (#SEW2021). This year’s SEW will be hosted
We are pleased to announce that out of the 100s of entries EDHE received for the National SEW2021 Design Poster Competition from across the country, the 1st prize winner is from Sol Plaatje University. Neo Raymond Morebodi who has won
Photo cred: South African History Online “We women will never carry these passes. This is something that touches my heart. I appeal to you young Africans to come forward and fight.
Women’s Day is an important reminder of the powerful display of unity in 1965 when mothers, daughters, wives, sisters, and friends united in solidarity to stand up for justice, equal opportunity and human rights. This Women’s month, Sol Plaatje University
A new mindset glimmers with the signing of the historic Town and Gown Agreement between the Sol Plaatje University (SPU) and the Sol Plaatje Local Municipality (SPLM) in Kimberley last week. The Diamond City, the capital of the biggest province
The Executive Mayor of the Sol Plaatje Local Municipality (SPLM), Mr Patrick Mabilo and the Vice-Chancellor and Principal of Sol Plaatje University (SPU), Professor Andrew Crouch, signed an historic Town and Gown Agreement, on Friday, 13 August 2021, for the
Sol Plaatje University is pleased to announce that the School of Education will host the 34th South African Society for History Teaching (SASHT) conference from 1-2 October 2021. Due to the restrictions imposed by the COVID-19 pandemic, the conference will
Please join us for our upcoming Women’s Month Virtual Public Lecture Date: Tuesday, 10 August 2021 Time: 16h00 – 17h30 Platform: MS Teams Live Link: https://bit.ly/3rkLuoX Theme: Generation Equality: Realizing Women’s Rights for an Equal Future Programme: Click here to download
OFM Radio will host a Live Link at Sol Plaatje University (SPU) tomorrow, Friday, 30 July 2021 from 10:00 to 12:00. Please tune into OFM via https://www.ofm.co.za/ or listen on the radio. VIP Access’ Alucius Mocumi will be on campus
Dear Graduate Kindly note that you can now collect your certificate at the Luka Jantjie House on weekdays during the following times: 08:15 to 13:00 and 14:00 to 16:15 Certificates can only be collected during the aforementioned times at the
Sol Plaatje University in collaboration with The Carpentries and SADiLaR (The South African Centre for Digital Language Resources) is organising and hosting an ONLINE Data Carpentry Training Workshop from 2nd – 6th August 2021. This workshop is aimed at equipping
Sol Plaatje University (SPU) is inviting prospective students, their families and teachers to a Virtual Open Day on Saturday, 31 July 2021. This event is a great opportunity to find out which programmes are on offer and to meet our
A lack of accountability has, for so long, been one of the central threads in the South African narrative, from a national level, right down to a localised level. We have watched with dismay and horror, the destruction of value,
Sol Plaatje University academic Dr Garth Benneyworth talks about the deployment and role of the military in current unrest hotspots. He says that the SANDF can play a supporting role to the SAPS in keeping certain logistics routes open and
Dear SPU Community On Sunday, 11 July 2021, President Cyril Ramaphosa announced that the country would remain at the Adjusted Alert Level 4, until 26 July 2021, to mitigate the effects of the third wave of COVID-19 infections that has
Mr David F Kanguwe has been appointed as the Chief Operating Officer (COO) of Sol Plaatje University (SPU) as from 1 March 2021. He takes over from the previous COO, Mr Raymond Olander, who retired after six years of serving
You are invited to join the family, friends, and colleagues of the late Professor Audrey Msimanga in a service of remembrance and celebration of her life. Please find below an invitation to the online Memorial Service hosted by WITS University in honour of
Judge Mmathebe Violet Phatshoane has been appointed as the new Chairperson of the Sol Plaatje University (SPU) Council. Judge Phatshoane served on the SPU Council since June 2014 and has played an integral role in the development of the University.
Dear SPU Community It is with great sadness that I inform you that Professor Audrey Msimanga, former Head of the School of Education, passed on yesterday. On behalf of Sol Plaatje University (SPU), I extend our sincere condolences to Professor
Sol Plaatje University (SPU) and the Griqualand West Rugby Union (GWRU) reached a successful agreement on the sale of the Tafel Lager Stadium in Kimberley. The acquisition of the Stadium by SPU has also been approved by the Minister of
In a virtual ceremony held on Friday, 25 June 2021, our Vice-Chancellor and Principal, Professor Andrew Crouch, signed an Education Transformation Agreement with Microsoft. Sol Plaatje University is the first higher education institution in Southern Africa to partner with Microsoft
With growing calls to reopen the Charlotte Maxeke Academic Hospital and facing a rising third wave of COVID-19 infections it is an opportune moment in history to reflect on what the ‘Mother of Black Freedom’ stood for. First, education. South
It goes without saying that COVID-19 has changed the way in which young people engage and are without a doubt a generation that embodies resilience as they faced an unimaginable obstacle that has threatened the way in which we think
You are cordially invited to attend the EDHE Entrepreneurship Intervarsity Internal Round and Official Launch of the Studentpreneur Community of Practice (SCP). The aim of the EDHE Entrepreneurship Intervarsity is to identify top student entrepreneurs at South Africa’s public universities,
This year marks the 45th anniversary of the student uprising on 16 June 1976 in Soweto when young people protested against the imposition of Afrikaans by the apartheid regime as a medium of instruction. It ended tragically, with hundreds of
Sol Plaatje University (SPU) has incorporated the Upington-based Centre for Entrepreneurship and Rapid Incubator (CfERI) into its fold, effective 1 June 2021. The CfERI was launched in 2017 as a partnership between the Department of Small Business Development (DSBD) and
The Office of Residences and Student Support invites you to participate in a Youth Day Virtual Conversation taking place on Youth Day about youth development post 1994. Event Details: Date: Wednesday, 16 June 2021 Time: 10:00 Platform: MS Teams (Click
The Sol Plaatje University (SPU) Library, in collaboration with the Northern Cape Provincial Library Services, will host a panel discussion and book launch to commemorate youth month on Tuesday, 15 June 2021. The panel discussion will highlight the challenges of
The Ukrainian Association of South Africa, the History subject group at Sol Plaatje University (SPU) and the Polish Association of Siberian Deportees in South Africa will host an online conference titled ‘Socio-Economic connections between Eastern Europeans in South Africa’. The
Dear SPU Community It was great sadness that I must inform you that Professor Vishnu Padayachee, a former member of the Sol Plaatje University (SPU) Council, passed away on Saturday, 29 May 2021. In June 2013, Professor Padayachee was appointed
Sol Plaatje University is pleased to announce the launch of the ‘Donating to SPU’ web page, which goes live on the SPU website today, 31 May 2021. The purpose of the page is to create a central home dedicated to
Dear SPU Students Welcome back to campus if you have been away during the recent recess period. I wish you all well as you embark upon the 2nd term of the 2021 academic year and want to remind you that
Sol Plaatje University (SPU), the Central University of Technology, Free State (CUT), the University of the Free State (UFS), and the International Relations Departments of the Free State Provincial Government and the Northern Cape Provincial Government takes great pleasure in inviting you to
Dear SPU Students and Staff There has been a significant spike in COVID-19 infections in the Northern Cape Province, where the number of active infections is presently amongst the highest in the country. We therefore placed the University under Alert
Dear SPU Students and Staff The University Management is putting in place measures to effectively curb the spread of the COVID-19 infections on campus and its effects on the surrounding communities. To this end, we will delay the start of
The Northern Cape Province is in the midst of a surge of COVID-19 infections which has had a significant impact on Sol Plaatje University. We have recorded thirteen positive cases for the period 3 to 16 May 2021, which led
Dear Students The disbursement of student allowances commenced at the end of April at Sol Plaatje University, and most confirmed funded students have now received allowances. There are, however, a number of important facts and outstanding issues that need to
Dear Graduates Due to more COVID-19 positive cases reported at Luka Jantjie House, a new date for the collection of certificates will be communicated in due course. We apologize for any inconvenience caused and thank you for your cooperation in
In March 2021, the 3rd annual Entrepreneurship Development in Higher Education (EDHE) Kick-Off took place virtually across 3 days, with a key focus on encouraging entrepreneurship against all odds. Final year SPU BCom student, Chad Lucas, a former SPU EDHE
Sol Plaatje University hosted its 6th Graduation Ceremony on Saturday, 1 May 2021. The virtual ceremony was streamed live across various online platforms such as KimberleyTV, YouTube, Facebook, Zoom and MS Teams. A recording of the event can be viewed
Sol Plaatje University (SPU) was established in 2013, commenced its academic programmes in 2014 and plays an important role, both locally, in the Northern Cape, and nationally. The University Council governs the University in terms of the Higher Education Act
The Sol Plaatje University 2021 Graduation event will take place as follows: Date: Saturday, 1 May 2021 Time: 09H30 Mode: Virtual event accessible on the following platforms: MS Teams – https://bit.ly/2Q6cn1L Zoom – https://bit.ly/3dwHgp2 Meeting ID: 893 7558 8333 Passcode: Z1Ztam
Dear SPU Students In order for there to be a smooth and efficient process for the payment of allowances, we request all First-Time-Entering Students (FTENs) to upload their banking details on the iEnabler system. The steps to follow are: Log
Sol Plaatje University like the rest of Kimberley has been affected by the ongoing water crisis. As of this morning all our water reserves were depleted on campus, however, we have purchased water for our immediate needs. It is still
The School of Humanities invites you to an online seminar entitled: “Reviving “the Black Archives”: Resurrecting Benedict Wallet Vilakazi with a focus on the utility and meaning of African languages and Literatures in higher education” by Prof. Nompumelelo “Mpume” Zondi
On Wednesday, 31 March 2021, a book edited by SPU academics Sabata-mpho Mokae and Professor Brian Willan, Sol Plaatje’s Mhudi: History, Criticism, Celebration won the Humanities and Social Sciences (HSS) Award during the 6th HSS Awards held at Maropeng –
Sharon Van Staden’s life will never be the same. The 22-year-old from Roodepan, Kimberley, achieved her lifelong dream when she was crowned Miss Kimberley 2021 on 19 December 2020 at the Northern Cape Theatre. Mr and Miss Kimberley is an
Dear SPU Staff and Students I want to wish all our staff and students well for this new academic year which began on Monday, 29 March 2021. We did not have a smooth start due to the disruptions related to
To First-Time Entering Students ( 1st Years) Please take note of the following important information regarding online applications and online registration. Online Applications All applications for 2021 closed on the 31 January 2021. If however you applied prior to the
Dear SPU Staff and Students The call by the South African Union of Students (SAUS), for a national shutdown of universities, which our SRC supported, had an adverse effect on the functioning of the University over the past few days.
Dear SPU Staff and Students Our academic year was scheduled to begin on Monday, 23 March 2021, with classes taking place online and through some on-campus activities for various student cohorts. Due to the actions of the SRC in obstructing
Pictured (from left to right): Mr Alvin Botes, Judge Steven Majiedt, Mr Hentie van Niekerk and Mr Brendan Jacobs On Saturday, 13 March 2021, Judge Steven Majiedt, Chancellor of Sol Plaatje University, together with Standard Bank, hosted a successful Golf
During the course of this week the SRC submitted a Memorandum of Demands to the Sol Plaatje University Management. Responses to those demands can be accessed here. Note: Returning Students who are still blocked from Registering must contact the Head
Dear SPU Community The right to protest is enshrined in our constitution and I support any peaceful means thereof. I do not support the intimidation of staff and students, the prevention of staff from doing their jobs, and a general
To First Time Entering Students and Returning Students The Minister of Higher Education and Training requested that, due to the NSFAS issues which had a direct impact on the registration of qualifying First Time Entering Students and Returning Students, institutions extend
As in the first phase of construction work at the Sol Plaatje University (SPU) in Kimberley, the second phase is also incorporating sustainability features. These range from synthetic surfaces for the sports fields to water-saving measures such as artificial landscaping
Dear first-time entering students Please note that on-campus Registration for first-time entering students to Sol Plaatje University is extended to 12 March 2021, if they: have a NSFAS reference number; and are SASSA recipients Click here to download the Late
Sol Plaatje University (SPU) is pleased to inform you that the Northern Cape Innovation Forum (NCIF), will be launched officially, on Friday, 26 February 2021. In recognition of the importance of innovation to increase social and economic development in the
Following their recent placement on the 2021 Human and Social Sciences (HSS) Awards long list, Sol Plaatje University’s (SPU) Creative writing lecturer, Sabata-mpho Mokae and Extraordinary Professor, Brian Willan’s book is making international headlines in African literature for their book
The best stories in life are like a string of pearls. For each life event the story is polished and lovely to behold. However, it is the string of events carefully joined together that gives the whole story meaning and
Dear SPU applicant Thank you for applying to study at Sol Plaatje University. The University will receive your final Grade 12 results from the Department of Basic Education in late February 2021. The results will be matched to your application
Sol Plaatje’s Mhudi: History, Criticism, Celebration, edited by Sol Plaatje University’s (SPU) academics Sabata-mpho Mokae and Professor Brian Willan, has been put on the long list for the 2021 Human and Social Sciences (HSS) Awards alongside seasoned contributors such as
People queue for food aid south of Johannesburg. The impact of COVID-19 on people’s livelihoods has been severe. Waldo Swiegers/Bloomberg via Getty Images Jessika Bohlmann, University of Pretoria; Helene Maisonnave, Université Le Havre Normandie; Margaret Chitiga-Mabugu, University of Pretoria;
The Mail & Guardian newspaper has done a feature on our Vice-Chancellor and Principal, Professor Andrew Crouch about his plans to put the Sol Plaatje University on the world map. Read the article here.
Please note that the applications for Peer Mentors are open. Those interested must upload the completed application form and previous semester/year academic transcript to the link provided no later than 30 November 2022 COB This opportunity is open to 3rd-year
In Setswana, we say “Se sa feleng se a tlhola!”. Loosely translated, the saying states that there is an end to everything. Therefore, this is my farewell message to the SPU community and a brief reflection on the academic year
Dear SPU Community It is with great sadness that I have to inform you of the passing of Mr Zingisile Wolsak, Senior Manager: Services in the Facilities and Services Department and that of his wife, Loyiso and youngest daughter, Oviya.
Former SPU SRC President, Mr Thabo Moilwa, was appointed by University Sports South Africa (USSA) as the Deputy Chef de Missions of the South African delegation that will represent the country at the 31st World University Summer Games to be
Dear SPU Community My best wishes to you and your families for a prosperous, productive, and healthy new year. On 28 December 2020, President Ramaphosa, placed the country on a Level 3 Lockdown, due to a second wave of COVID-19
To All SPU Students Your 2020 Examination Results are available to view online. Please click here for guidelines on how to access your results online.
Professor M H Kabir, Associate Professor in the department of Accounting and Economics, has been invited to be a guest speaker at a Webinar Expert Lecture titled “Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) in Strategic Planning and going forward post COVID-19”. The
The School of Economic and Management Sciences (EMS), in partnership with the Student Affairs department, hosted its 3rd annual (and first-ever virtual) Student Entrepreneurship Week (SEW). The virtual event took place over a three-day period in October under the theme
The University invites all final year students and alumni who reside in the Sol Plaatje Local Municipality, Northern Cape, to apply for a 12 months Graduate Internship Programme (18.2) at Sol Plaatje University to gain valuable work experience. The aim
To the SPU Community In his address to the nation on Wednesday, 11 November 2020, President Ramaphosa mentioned that we are experiencing a higher than average rate of new COVID-19 infections in the Frances Baard Municipal District, which is where
Sol Plaatje University does not condone any form of Gender Based Violence and the University takes seriously any experiences pertaining to both staff and students. Sexual harassment in particular that manifests in explicit and subtle ways is strongly condemned. There
The Inaugural Meeting of the SPU Convocation will take place on Saturday, 28 November 2020 from 11:00 to 13:00 in C016 on the Sol Plaatje University Central Campus. RSVP’s should be sent to kashini.maistry@spu.ac.za by Wednesday, 25 November 2020. The
To mark the beginning of the 16 Days of Activism, Sol Plaatje University invites you to a virtual public lecture on Gender-Based Violence and Femicide which will be delivered by Professor Thuli Madonsela on Thursday, 12 November 2020. Amidst the
You are required to urgently update your mobile phone number and other contact details on the Student Self Help iEnabler. These updates are essential to ensure that the University has your correct personal information.
Co-creative teaching and learning and the normalizing of the abnormal entail the maximizing of the entry-level of students’ knowledge. These encapsulate the need to link learning and teaching to real-life issues, contexts and the student world and realities. The need
It is Breast Cancer Awareness month and questions around the reach of the awareness are important to ponder. Who is the awareness really for? Much of the awareness is predominately in English, while cancer centres and health facilitates are mostly
The Chair of Council, Judge Yvonne Mokgoro, announced today that Constitutional Court Judge, Stevan Majiedt, has been re-appointed as Chancellor of Sol Plaatje University for a second successive five-year term. In congratulating Judge Majiedt on his reappointment, Judge Mokgoro said
In a media statement released by Universities South Africa (USAf), the Board of Directors of USAf have noted with grave concern, reports of reckless student behaviour on campuses since South Africa relaxed the national lockdown to Levels 2 and 1,
Dear SPU Students In accordance with clauses 46 to 54 of the SRC Constitution, I hereby issue the Directive on the SRC Electoral Rules and Procedures for 2020 which can be downloaded here. The Directive contains information on the composition
Buza Ndebele, a second-year BEd student at SPU, started a Facebook and WhatsApp challenge using the #breadchallenge during the national lockdown that turned into a community benefit project aimed at feeding the underprivileged community of Wolmaransstad. “We have a lot
Sol Plaatje University’s School of Education (SPU SoE) and the Northern Cape Department of Education (NC DoE) invite you to a virtual celebration of World Teacher’s Day. In 1994 UNESCO established World Teachers’ Day to appreciate the world’s educators and
Sol Plaatje University (SPU), the Central University of Technology, Free State (CUT), the University of the Free State (UFS), and the International Relations Departments of the Free State Provincial Government and the Northern Cape Provincial Government takes great pleasure in
SPU students and staff are invited to join the 3rd annual (and first-ever virtual) SPU Student Entrepreneurship Week (SEW) 2020 taking place on 7, 14 and 15 October 2020 on MS Teams. First launched in 2017 by the Entrepreneurship Development
Dear SPU Community Our national lockdown is now at Alert Level 1 under which it is expected that we move to greater normality in our operations. The regulations allow for the return of all staff to campus. You are therefore
Period poverty, which refers to a lack of access to sanitary protection, continues to be a debilitating concern – especially for a developing country such as South Africa. However, Vanessa Madito, a first-year Heritage Studies student at SPU, managed to
The Northern Cape Premier’s Education Trust Fund (NCPETF) invites applications from unemployed youth in the Northern Cape to apply for study assistance for full-time studies at any South African institute of higher learning. Students who are eligible to apply are:
SPU’s School of Natural and Applied Sciences will host the 2020 2nd IMITEC conference from 25 to 27 November 2020. The conference will be held in conjunction with the IEEE (Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers) Computer Society, IEEE South
You are cordially invited to the first Address to SPU Alumni by our new Vice-Chancellor and Principal, Professor Andrew Crouch. As a graduate of SPU, you have a significant role to play within the governance of the University. Please join
As National Women’s Month draws to a close, we invite you to a Virtual Seminar on Gender and Transformation in Higher Learning presented by Professor Mary Jean Baxen, Deputy Vice-Chancellor: Academic at Sol Plaatje University. Today she also shares with
Women at Sol Plaatje University (SPU), including staff, students and alumni, have established themselves as pioneers, progressive leaders and change agents within the University and the community of Kimberley. From having the first female Deputy Vice-Chancellor, first female Chief Financial
To commemorate Women’s Month, Sol Plaatje University has partnered with the Department of Sport, Arts and Culture and mental health practitioners to offer a multi modal healing approach to women. The dialogue incorporates the knowledge and experiences of psychologists, community
Women at Sol Plaatje University (SPU), including staff, students and alumni, have established themselves as pioneers, progressive leaders and change agents within the University and the community of Kimberley. From having the first female Deputy Vice-Chancellor, first female Chief Financial
The Annual National Intervarsity Student Entrepreneurship Competition is hosted by Entrepreneurship Development in Higher Education (EDHE), across all 26 public universities in South Africa. This is an initiative established by the Department of Higher Education, Science and Innovation. The purpose
Women at Sol Plaatje University, including staff, students and alumni, have established themselves as pioneers, progressive leaders and change agents within the University and the community of Kimberley. From having the first female Deputy Vice-Chancellor, first female Chief Financial Officer,
It is with great sadness that we inform you that Dr Kamela Sekonya, a Lecturer in Physics within the Department of Physical and Earth Sciences in the School of Natural and Applied Sciences, passed away on Friday, 15 August 2020.
Vice-Chancellor and Principal of Sol Plaatje University extends condolences to the family of the departed MEC Mack Jack.
To the SPU Community Since the national lockdown came into effect at the end of March 2020 we have had to navigate in unchartered waters. I am happy to report that because we have all pulled together SPU is still
Sol Plaatje University is pleased to announce that the 2020 Open Day will take place online on Saturday, 22 August 2020. This is a not-to-be-missed opportunity for prospective students and their parents to find out more about our programme offerings,
The Minister of Higher Education, Science and Innovation, Dr Blade Nzimande, officially opened the National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) 2021 Application cycle on 3 August 2020. NSFAS provides financial assistance in the form of a study bursary to qualifying
The Shoprite Holdings bursary aims at attracting and funding future Trainee Retail Managers who want to follow an exciting management career at the largest retailer in Africa. The funding is a steppingstone into the company and guarantees candidate’s employment upon
This year the essence of Nelson Mandela month is more significant than ever before as the world fights the spread of an unseen enemy – the coronavirus. As Mandela month draws to a close, we look at Dr Garth Benneyworth’s
The School of Natural and Applied Sciences welcomed Dr Zingfa Wala, who is the University’s first post-doctoral fellow, on 1 July 2020. “The School of Natural and Applied Sciences is excited on this momentous occasion in welcoming the very
Sol Plaatje University now uses a new online application system that allows prospective students to apply to study at the institution without having to pay an application fee. To apply online, students must use a computer with internet connectivity and
Inaugural Intergenerational Colloquium In Commemoration of the Late Sanusi Vuzamazulu Credo Mpumelelo Mutwa Mkhulu Vusamazulu Mpumelelo Credo Mutwa was born on 21 July 1921 in the (now) Kwazulu-Natal Province in South Africa and would have turned 99 years of age
The School of Humanities invites you to an online seminar titled Summer meets Winter: A historical perspective on African nations participating at the Winter Olympics by Dr Cobus Rademeyer. A record number of eight African countries competed at the 2018
On Tuesday, 30 June 2020, the 2019-2020 SRC at Sol Plaatje University (SPU) met to elect a new President, as the post was vacant following the departure of the previous president. Ms Ntesang Makutu was elected by a majority vote
The School of Humanities invites you to an online seminar entitled Agglomeration, disintegration and social distancing: Covid-19 and the archaeological lessons on communicable diseases, population size and settlement organisation at the Great Zimbabwe by Dr Foreman Bandama. Whether plagues reached
With a strong mathematics, statistics and computer science core, the BSc degree in Data Science is one of the most challenging programmes offered at SPU. As the only University on the African continent that offers an undergraduate Data Science degree,
The School of Education hereby invites you to be part of an online webinar on Rurality and Rural Education presented by Professor Dipane Hlalele (UKZN). The event will take place as follows: Date: Thursday 18 June 2020 Time: 14h00 –
The Sol Plaatje University Senior Management Team has created a social relief fund for students who experience unanticipated financial hardship for which they have no other recourse for funding. Only students who are registered at Sol Plaatje University are eligible
Sol Plaatje University’s Department of Heritage Studies, within the School of Humanities, is hosting a June 16 commemoration public lecture titled ‘The bittersweet fruits of the June 1976 youth uprising’ by Ms Busisiwe Totsie Memela-Khambula. Ms Memela-Khambula worked in the
In light of the current COVID-19 pandemic that requires the nation to practice social distancing to contain and reduce the number of infections, SPU’s Student Affairs department is pleased to announce that SPU students will still have an opportunity to
Dear SPU Community In line with the announcement by the Minister of Higher Education, Science and Innovation that final year students and those graduating in 2020 may return to campus under the COVID-19 Level 3 lockdown, Sol Plaatje University will
Dear SPU Staff At the Senior Management Team Meeting held on Monday, 1 June 2020, a report was presented by the COO from the Post-Lockdown Task Team about plans for staff to return to campus. I am happy to report
Dear SPU Community In anticipation of the President’s announcement on Sunday, 24 May 2020, that the country would move down to Level 3 of the nationwide lockdown; the University management has been working diligently to prepare for the return to
At the South African Institute of Chartered Accountants (SAICA) Annual General Meeting held earlier this year Sol Plaatje University’s Chief Financial Officer, Annalene Marais, was elected as a member of the SAICA Central Region Council and Chairperson of the Kimberley
Dear SPU Community On Tuesday, 12 May 2020 we embarked upon an Orientation Programme for our students to help them navigate the system and resources that have been set-up for their e-Learning during the national lockdown. The programme is going
For as long as he can recall, SPU’s 2019 soccer royalty, Okuhle Lwana always had a passion for football. Born in Flagstaff, situated in the Eastern Cape, Lwana states that much of his football inspiration is attributed to his older
To provide a more structured and coordinated approach to dealing with students’ financial enquiries during the nationwide lockdown, SPU’s Finance Department requests students to please send all their financial enquiries to the below email address: finance.enquiries@spu.ac.za This email address should
Dear Staff Thank you for your continued efforts in keeping the University academically and administratively operational during this unprecedented national lockdown period. It is a testament to your industriousness that we are in a strong position to plan for and
Just over 100 years ago, the 1918-1919 influenza pandemic was the most severe pandemic in recent human history. Estimates are that about 100 million people, or one-third of the world’s population, were infected. An estimated 50 million worldwide perished. Economic
Senate, at a special meeting yesterday, 21 April 2020, discussed the academic implications of the nationwide lockdown due to the COVID-19 pandemic and assessed the University’s readiness to offer teaching and learning through a blended mode. Over the last few
A telephonic survey, conducted by staff from the Student Affairs Department and Residence Office, is underway to assess student access to connectivity and electricity, and their proximity to the nearest Post Office. We have thus far captured all first-year students’
School of Education 4th year student Xolani Mathebula took a top 10 place at the competitive two-day Ethekwini Open Chess Championship earlier this year. More than 100 players competed in the A-section with another 90 players in the B-section. He
I write this in hopes that you and your families are safe and well. Following President Ramaphosa’s announcement tonight that the nationwide lockdown would be extended by two weeks, until the end of April 2020; I appeal to the University
Thank you for the warm welcome which I received upon taking-up my position as Vice-Chancellor and Principal of Sol Plaatje University. I look forward to working with you on realising our aspirations for this university. I would like to acknowledge
It is with great pleasure that we welcome the second Vice-Chancellor and Principal of Sol Plaatje University, Professor Andrew Crouch. Professor Andrew Crouch takes up the position of Vice-Chancellor and Principal of Sol Plaatje University today, 1 April 2020. “We
South Africans and the world are facing an unprecedented period with the ongoing spread of COVID-19, commonly known as the coronavirus. Given the uncertainty of how events will unfold in the next few weeks and indeed what changes will be
Further to the communication posted on Monday, 23 March 2020 and in line with President Cyril Ramaphosa’s call for a national lockdown, the SPU community is informed of the following: SPU is on total shutdown from 16:00 on Thursday, 26
The University Council, on the advice of Senior Management Team, has agreed to a University lockdown for all SPU staff, from Tuesday, 24 March 2020 to Tuesday, 14 April 2020, under the following conditions: Employees are required to self-isolate for
In the interests of safety and security of Sol Plaatje University (SPU) and the broader Kimberley community, the SPU community is hereby informed of the following action plan in response to the COVID-19 outbreak in South Africa: In order to
On Saturday, 14 March 2020, the Chancellor of Sol Plaatje University, Judge Steven Majiedt, together with Standard Bank, hosted a successful Golf Day at the Kimberley Golf Club in order to raise funds for student bursaries. Sponsors who contributed to
Awards to three of the University’s buildings have added to the growing tally of accolades made to SPU for its world-class infrastructure. The multi-award-winning Library notched up another accolade when it was awarded the SAIA Free State Award for Architecture
Following the announcement by the President of a national state of disaster, the SPU Senior Management Team met today to consider a plan of action. The University notes that there are no confirmed cases of the COVID-19 viral infection in
On 12 March 2020, Professor Brian Willan won the award for Best Non-Fiction Biography for his book titled Sol Plaatje: A life of Solomon Tshekisho Plaatje 1876-1932 at the 5th Annual Humanities and Social Sciences (HSS) Awards 2020 ceremony. The
Sol Plaatje University hosted the Ilifu Big Data Hackathon from 12 – 13 March 2020. The Ilifu Human Capital Development and Outreach Committee in partnership with SPU’s School of Natural and Applied Sciences aims to promote active usage of ilifu
The Human Sciences Research Council (HSRC) and Sol Plaatje University (SPU) will, together with their strategic partners, host an international conference from 26th – 28th October 2020 at SPU in Kimberley, South Africa. The event will bring together researchers and
Theme: Convergences, Complications and Contestations: Hindsight, Insight and Foresight in Southern African Histories Sol Plaatje University (SPU) will host the biennial conference of the Historical Association of South Africa (HASA) from 30 June to 2 July 2020. Named after Sol
The School of Humanities public seminar series endeavours to promote robust academic engagement across the university community. We invite academics based at Sol Plaatje University (SPU) as well as visitors from other institutions to offer papers across a broad range
With over 10 years of game experience, SPU’s chess champion, Simon Maupa, says chess is a great game that teaches one how to think and instills an attitude of winning. “Not only does chess enhance one’s creativity and planning abilities,
The Standard Bank Chancellor’s Golf Day will be held on Saturday, 14 March 2020 at the Kimberley Golf Club. This is an annual event hosted by our Chancellor, Judge Steven Majiedt, to raise funds for the Chancellor’s Bursary Fund. You
On Saturday, 8 February 2020, Sol Plaatje University (SPU) welcomed over 700 first-time entering students and their families, its biggest group ever of new students as SPU begins its seventh year of existence. The first session began at 09:00 in the
The Council of Sol Plaatje University is pleased to announce that Professor Andrew M Crouch will take up the position of Vice-Chancellor and Principal at the University on 1 April 2020. The Council welcomes Professor Crouch to Sol Plaatje University
On Saturday, 14 December 2019, Sol Plaatje University held its 5th Graduation Ceremony for 332 graduates from across its four schools. Students received certificates, diplomas or degrees from the Schools of Economic & Management Sciences, Education, Humanities and Natural &
Sol Plaatje University Chancellor, Judge Steven Majiedt, bids farewell to the University’s first Vice-Chancellor and Principal, Professor Yunus Ballim: Prof Ballim has greatly endeared himself to us. He has truly embraced not only SPU but also Kimberley and the Northern
SPU, with particular efforts by its Schools of Education and Humanities, hosted a symposium entitled “Afrikaans: Kom saam/Come along” in October. The Northern Cape province represents the largest number of speakers of Afrikaans in South Africa. According to the 2011
Four students – Ntesang Makutu, Kopano Sebe, Vannette Naude and Dikatso Gaebepe – were selected from Sol Plaatje University to be selected for the JustLead course, presented by the University of Stellenbosch. JustLead! aims to develop the leadership competency and
The former SRC President Thabo Moilwa has been appointed as a University Sports South Africa (USSA) assessor, the first person to be appointed from the Northern Cape. It follows on from Thabo’s appointment as SRC president last year. The latest
In line with best practice, and as part of our quality assurance processes, all qualifications at Sol Plaatje University undergo regular programme review. During 2019, the Bachelor of Commerce (BCom) qualification was evaluated. Following the recommendations of this review, the
In July 2019, Professor Jesmael Mataga, Head of the School of Humanities, spent time at one of Zimbabwe’s young universities. The Great Zimbabwe University (GZU) was established in 1999 and is located in Masvingo, Zimbabwe. Hosted by the Centre for
Rre Sabata-Mpho Mokae, a Lecturer in Creative Writing in African Languages, at Sol Plaatje University, has won a South African Literary Award (SALA) last night, (7 November 2019) for his novel Moletlo wa Manong. It was a tight race in
Former Unisa Vice-Chancellor, Prof Barney Pityana, was invited to deliver the Sol Plaatje annual public lecture which took place last week. Here follows his thoughts which he set out in the public lecture entitled, “A Pariah in the Land of
In addition to the goals in terms of its student and academic profile and these groups’ development, the University has also set development targets and achievements for local and black skills development and participation in construction work. The reason for
A large proportion of the University’s students originate from the Northern Cape which is a largely rural province. Unsurprisingly, many students require accommodation. Moroko Hall of Residence is the largest of the SPU three on-campus residences. In 2018, it housed
SPU, together with the University of South Africa, the Northern Cape Rural TVET College, DHET, the Department of Correctional Services, the Wholesale and Retail Sector Education and Training Authority and the Northern Cape Office of the Premier, amongst others, are
Dr Garth Benneyworth’s article, Reconstructing the Raid, in the 80th edition of The Thinker provides further insight into the historic Liliesleaf farm raid in the 1960s. Dr Benneyworth says that the raid was “certainly not a police solo strike. Rather
Sol Plaatje University (SPU) will host the Education Association of South Africa (EASA) 2020 annual conference which will take place from 12 to 15 January 2020. The theme for the conference will take a closer look at “Big holes and
The Chancellor of Sol Plaatje University, Judge Stevan Majiedt, was appointed on 11 September 2019 by President Cyril Ramaphosa to serve on the Constitutional Court as one of two new appointments made to replace the vacancies left by the retirement
Dr Doug Harebottle, Senior Lecturer and Head of the Biological and Agricultural Sciences Department, is collaborating with John Werth from PAAZA (Pan-African Association of Zoos and Aquaria) in monitoring the movements of hand-reared Lesser Flamingos that were released back into
This statement was issued by Universities SA on behalf of the vice-chancellors of all 26 universities and therefore is endorsed by the Vice-Chancellor and Principal, Prof Yunus Ballim. “We are experiencing an epidemic of incomprehensible violence. South Africa’s universities are
Sol Plaatje University, together with the Department of Economic Development and Tourism, the Northern Cape Chamber of Commerce and Industry (NOCCI), the Black Management Forum, the Mine Managers Forum, the Renewable Energy Entrepreneurs Forum, Northern Cape Tourism Authority and the
On Tuesday, 3 September 2019, students at Sol Plaatje University held a night vigil to make a statement against the increasing violence against women. Through poetry, song and prayer, they remembered Uyinene Mrwetyana the UCT student who was brutally murdered.
We are experiencing an epidemic of incomprehensible violence. South Africa’s universities are reeling this week from the rape and murder of UCT student Uyinene Mrwetyana and the murder of UWC student Jesse Hess at a truly tragic moment in our
The School of Humanities has launched its second seminar series for 2019. The series aims to promote robust academic engagement across the University community. It comprises nine seminars which began on 7 August 2019 with Professor David Shinn from George
Our Vice-Chancellor, Professor Yunus Ballim, will give an Open Lecture which will explore the questions raised by the song “People Get Ready” as they pertain to the conceptualisation of freedom and the perspective of slavery, as well as our understanding
Sol Plaatje University has for the first time ever participated in the FUNDA MZANTSI CHAMPIONSHIP (FMC) Elimination, a reading competition, hosted by the National Library of South Africa (NSLA). On 13 August 2019, SPU together with the Department of Correctional
The International Youth Day Celebration, hosted by the Department of International Relations and Cooperation (DIRCO) and Sol Plaatje University (SPU) on Monday, 12 August 2019, attracted some high profile participants and a diverse audience of youth from the greater Kimberley
On Thursday, 1 August 2019 the SPU community gathered to honour and remember Nokuthula Simelane through an exhibition on her life put together by our Heritage Studies students and to hear her story narrated by her sister Thembi Simelane-Nkadimeng, Executive
Sol Plaatje University (SPU) put its best foot forward in partnering with the Department Science and Innovation (DSI) and the Northern Cape Department of Education to host the launch of the 2019 National Science Week at the Mittah Seperepere Convention
Minister of Higher Education, Science and Technology, Dr Blade Nzimande, will launch the 2019 instalment of National Science Week (NSW), the premier science engagement initiative on the Department of Science and Innovation’s calendar in Kimberley this coming Saturday. This year’s
Sol Plaatje University’s Library and Resource Centre, on Central Campus, has won an international architecture award at this year’s 14th edition of the 2019 International Architecture Awards. Founded in 2005, the International Architecture Awards is one of the oldest annual
The South African Society for Agricultural Extension kicked off their annual conference at Sol Plaatje University (SPU) in Kimberley earlier this week. About 300 delegates were given a warm welcome by Professor Jean Baxen, Deputy Vice-Chancellor: Academic. She informed the
SPU Humanities’ student Sisca Julius, who is studying Afrikaans, creative writing, anthropology and heritage studies, was awarded the inaugural K & L prize for her story, Honey Bee. The award which comes with a substantial prize was founded last year
Dr Garth Benneyworth has notched up another landmark book review in the internationally acclaimed North-West University journal, New Contree. He reviewed the text of Rusty Bernstein, entitled Memory against Forgetting, which covers the remarkable man’s memoir of a life in
Sol Plaatje University (SPU) is co-hosting the Biennial Conference of the Association of Southern African Professional Archaeologists (ASAPA) in Kimberley which starts today and runs until 5 July 2019. Its co-host is Kimberley’s landmark McGregor Museum. The conference brings together
SPU’s Head of Department of Heritage Studies, Dr Garth Benneyworth is part of an international team whose work has been included in a recently-published book, Life in the Camp. The book covers issues of forced migration and internment of civilians,
The safety of our students is of paramount importance; to this end, we introduced green routes to create a safe environment for our students as they navigate their way between academic and administrative buildings, sporting facilities and the various student
Head of the School of Education, Dr Audrey Msimang, presented an exciting paper at the second School of Education seminar in May. Her research and presentation aimed to create further understanding of the nature and role of classroom talk in
For the second time in a row, SPU’s Dumela team has taken second prize in a national hackathon competition with a score of 82% from the judges. Dumela was one of the three teams from Kimberley which competed against 12
This year’s guest speaker at SPU’s annual Africa Day Public Lecture was Kehinde Andrews, a professor of Black Studies at Birmingham City University in Birmingham, England. Andrews’ lecture, which was held at the Sol Plaatje University on 24 May 2019,
In 2019, the SPU Drama Group will feature at Makhanda’s 45th National Arts Festival on the Fringe Programme with their play Buried Seeds by Thabo Gabogope and Mishka Tobias. Buried Seeds is a dual language play in Setswana and English
Creative Writing Lecturer, Sabata-mpho Mokae, was invited to deliver a speech at the Beaconsfield Library’s historic 130th anniversary speech. The text follows: “Once upon a time a brightly shining star hurriedly traversed the skies from east to west, splitting the heavens and
Dr Garth Benneyworth, a notable authority on the liberation struggle, presented his paper, Reconstructing the Raid, to a conference which brought together veterans from the 1960s era and seven international academics who engaged in a two-day conversation on that era
The School of Natural and Applied Sciences introduced its honours in data science programme this year, successfully enrolling six students, all of whom had completed their BSc in Data Science at the University last year. The popular programme covers modules
The first intake of students into the Postgraduate Diploma in Public Management, offered by the School of Economic and Management Sciences, arrived at SPU on Saturday, 6 April 2019 for their Orientation Programme. The Postgraduate Diploma in Public Management is
Sol Plaatje University has advertised the post of Vice-Chancellor (VC), which is to become vacant when the inaugural VC and Principal, Prof Yunus Ballim steps down at the end of 2019, having laid an excellent foundation for his successor. The
Sol Plaatje University is one step closer to realising its research and education focus on rural development issues in the Northern Cape region, following the confirmation that it has been granted land by the Northern Province Government. In announcing the
The Sol Plaatje University Research Day, which is a collaboration with the South African Swedish University Forum (SASUF), will take place on Tuesday, 7 May 2019. The discussion themes are: Education for a sustainable society & social transformation through change
Earlier today, the University’s “First Things First” health and wellness campaign got underway. Leading from the front were Vice-Chancellor and Principal Yunus Ballim and the Deputy Vice-Chancellor Prof Jean Baxen who underwent testing as the day kicked off. “First Things
The University is to hold a health & wellness testing tomorrow (9 April 2019) from 12:00 to 16:00 on the Central Campus Quad. The testing is part of the nationwide “First Things First” campaign which is a programme supported the
The National Metrology Institute of South Africa (NMISA) will present on human capital development in the Library Auditorium (Central Campus) from 10:00 to 15:00 on Monday, 8 April 2019. The Institute is responsible for maintaining the SI units, and for maintaining
Michael Glover from the School of Humanities, Leiden University and International Studies Group, University of the Free State will present a paper entitled, “Cattle history of Southern Africa at 14:00 on Friday, 5 April 2019. The venue is C016, Humanities
The Health and Welfare Sector Education and Training Authority (HWSETA) has awarded 15 bursaries worth R871,500 to the School of Humanities Honours Social Science Sociology students for this year. This is a shot in the arm for the first postgraduate
World acclaimed writer and South African novelist Zakes Mda is to launch his book, The Zulus of New York at Sol Plaatje University at 18:00 on Thursday, 28 March 2019. The launch, which is to take place at the Library
The Sol Plaatje University, IFAS–Recherche and Wits University Press have the pleasure of inviting you to the launch of a new book on rock art VISIONARY ANIMAL Rock Art from Southern Africa Visionary Animal is a rich collection of essays
Dr Marga Stander of the School of Humanities recently had a research article published in the Journal of Further and Higher Education. Entitled, “Strategies to help university students avoid plagiarism: a focus on translation as an intervention strategy”, the article
Three academics from the School of Natural and Applied Sciences accompanied six Data Science Honours students to an intensive week-long bootcamp at the University of Pretoria. The team stayed at Future Africa, which is aiming to be a centre for
At the basement entrance of Luka Jantjie House, there is a hive of activity. It’s there that you will find Benjamin Jonas, quietly going about his business as the University’s only bike technician who takes care of SPU’s fleet of
SPU’s Data Science Honours programme began on a high note this year with the University receiving a mention in Minister Ebrahim Patel’s speech at the closing of the SONA debate. In the speech, which highlighted the need for new skills
The Human Sciences Research Council (HSRC) and SPU have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) that will focus on the higher education and development nexus of SPU in Kimberley and the Northern Cape. The MoU centres on four initial broad
The two American women cycling up the hill daily (on SPU bikes) from Belgravia to SPU are our first Fulbright Scholars. Adeola Ajirotutu is from New York City. She has an undergraduate degree, in Religious and Italian Studies, from the
Members of the Presidential Infrastructure Coordinating Commission (PICC) conducted a series of interviews on campus on 14 February 2019, with members of the Senior Management Team (SMT) about the infrastructure developments at SPU since its inception. They also interviewed academics
Three School of Humanities’ academics are contributing to a landmark project which will see seven novels and one work of non-fiction translated from English to Setswana. The seven works, known as The Repatriation of Letters, is part of a two-year
Dr Audrey Msimanga has been appointed as the new Head of the SPU School of Education. She holds a PhD in Science Education from the University of the Witwatersrand as well as an MSc in Zoology; BSc Hons in Biological
Kashini Maistry has been appointed Senior Manager Communications and Marketing (effective 15 January 2019). A graduate of Wellesley College in the USA and Wits University, she brings a wealth of experience gained over 25 years in higher education. She cut
The year marked our fifth anniversary, and also came with the first inaugural graduates from our BA degree, with commendable throughput rates. These existing milestones have ushered us into another milestone in our growth as a school. Our three postgraduate
The School of Economic and Management Sciences (SoEMS) has deliberately chosen to pursue three major goals in 2019, which will have major impact on its future position and performance. Firstly, the School will build capacity in curriculum design, programme development
“We exhibit and are committed to professionalism, integrity and high work ethics at all times. We produce high calibre students who are innovative and independent thinkers through excellent teaching. “We provide a friendly working environment which promotes life-long learning. We
Biggest first-entering class for 2020 On Saturday, 2nd February 2019 Sol Plaatje University (SPU) welcomed over six hundred first-entering students and their families – its biggest group ever of new students as SPU begins its sixth year of existence. The
On Wednesday, 30 January 2019, the Parliamentary Portfolio Committee on Higher Education and Training (PCHET), led by the Chair, Ms Connie September, undertook an oversight visit to Sol Plaatje University to receive reports on: the 2019 registration process, the 2018
As you will have noticed, construction work at Luka Jantjie House began this week. It takes place in three phases and will be completed by the start of the academic year in 2020. The construction work is being undertaken by
At an event held today, Sol Plaatje University (SPU) acknowledged the R4.5 million investment from Absa Bank which will support the data science development endeavours of the University and the Northern Cape Province. The Premier of the Northern Cape Province,
Under the auspices of the Northern Cape Wetland Forum, Sol Plaatje University in conjunction with South African Environmental Observation Network (SAEON) Arid Node, based in Kimberley, hosted a successful World Wetlands Day event on Friday 1 February. Over 30 people
On Wednesday, 30th January 2019 the Parliamentary Portfolio Committee on Higher Education and Training (PCHET), led by the Chair, Ms Connie September, undertook an oversight visit to Sol Plaatje University to receive reports on: the 2019 registration process, the 2018
On 12 December 2018, a historic sod-turning event symbolised a major milestone in the ongoing development of SPU. In 2014, the University purchased a property, close to Central Campus, later designated as South Campus; a site which is to be
Sol Plaatje University was honoured to host the Deputy Minister of Higher Education and Training, Mr Buti Manamela and his personal staff on Wednesday, 23 January 2019. The purpose of Mr Manamela’s visit was to undertake a readiness check on
Renting out branded bicycles to students is an initiative by Sol Plaatje University in support of both Student Services and the SPU Development Mobility Plan. It is intended to encourage those who do not have access to transport to rent
Sol Plaatje University continues to expand its infrastructure so that it can meet its goal to accommodate over 7,000 students in the medium term. NAS academic building on Central Campus Planned on Central Campus for occupation at the beginning of
Owen Langdown is a Retail Management Diploma graduate who is currently employed by GWK. He shares his experience from being a student to becoming an employee I would like to start by saying that the student environment is a safe
Sol Plaatje University’s annual report, which outlines its progress for the 2017/18, has been released. The 120-page document, which was released in October 2018, provides insights into the young University’s fifth year of operations. Your free download can be found
SPU’s School of Humanities received funding from the Carnegie African Diaspora Fellowship Program to host Prof Jean-Jacques Ngor Sène. Prof Sène is an Associate Professor of History; Cultural Studies; Conflict Studies and Global Focus Coordinator from Chatham University in the
The Student Entrepreneurship Week (SEW) 2018 is a key project in the Entrepreneurship Development in Higher Education (EDHE) programme, a partnership between the Department of Higher Education and Training, and Universities South Africa (USAf). This project aims to raise student
Academics in the School of Humanities continue to grow their academic prowess with some notable recent achievements: Palesa Seleke received her MA in Setswana from North-West University in September 2017. Her MA research was on the Context of Gomolemo Mokae’s
Recently Vice-Chancellor Professor Yunus Ballim signed a Memorandum of Understanding with the Public Service Commission (PSC). The MOU is part of the University’s overall commitment towards partnerships and engagement with the broader community and stakeholders in the province and across
SPU’s Inzalo Project is an outreach to Northern Cape schools to promote science education sponsored by Sasol. The project, which has been operating for a year, aims to identify and interact with schools where there is a need for support
2018 marks Sol Plaatjie University’s fifth year since its establishment, and of a period in which South Africa’s youngest university has made notable achievements. 1. Institutional development of a new Sol Plaatje University Sol Plaatje University was established by Government
Huawei, in partnership with Department of Telecommunication and Postal Services (DTPS), has offered the Seeds for the Future programme since 2016. Each year, the partnership invites 10 South African students to China for international training in Beijing and Shenzhen. The
SPU biological sciences graduate Tshepiso Seshuwane has been awarded a prestigious Rhodes University bursary to complete his honours.This follows a strong recommendation from SPU’s Dr Adebowale based on the student’s exemplary academic track record. The bursary was awarded as part
Dr Garth Benneyworth represented SPU and South Africa as a panellist on a World Heritage and Educational Institutions in Africa Workshop earlier this year His paper was entitled, “Building futures through developing heritage studies as a learning and economic resource”.
SPU recently hosted a public lecture entitled: Getting the most out of your enterprise and supplier development. There are hundreds of enterprise and supplier development programmes available to corporate companies in South Africa. However, most of these programmes are not