NEWS

ALL THE STUDENT NEWS

Master’s Student Excels at 2026 Wetskills programme

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

Read More »

My Road to Graduation: supported to succeed

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

Read More »

Student Job Alert – Library Assistant (Evening Shift)

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

Read More »

Vice-Chancellor to officially welcome the class of 2026

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

Read More »

New SRC inaugurated to champion purposeful leadership

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

Read More »

A season of purpose and possibility

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

Read More »

Junaid Jacobs plays the game with heart

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

Read More »

SPU to host Kaonafatso ya Dikgomo Farmer’s Day

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

Read More »

SPU shines at the Telkom Netball League!

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

Read More »

Unmuted: From Student to System Shifter

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,

Read More »

Eric Sibiya joins International USSA Media Team

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

Read More »

SPU launches innovative e-learning studios

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

Read More »

SPU Drama Group takes to the national stage

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

Read More »

SPU student wins top prize in French AI competition

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

Read More »

Further update – Disbursement of allowances

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

Read More »

Save the date, Graduands – Your moment is here!

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

Read More »

SPU welcomes the class of 2025

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,

Read More »

Applications invited: UG final-year student

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

Read More »

SPU’s Varsity Shield Mascot Madness takes over the city

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

Read More »

Something BIG is coming this Monday…

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

Read More »

SPU Launches High-Performance Sport Centre

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

Read More »

SPU graduate student elected Vice Chair of SAASS

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

Read More »

Shaping a new generation of entrepreneurs

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

Read More »

Symbolic merger of Ra-Thaga and Mhudi Residences

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

Read More »

SPU hosts successful USSA rugby 7s tournament

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

Read More »

SPU to host USSA rugby 7s tournament 2024

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

Read More »

SPU Career Fair empowers students for the world of work

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

Read More »

SPU female students empowered on Women’s Day

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

Read More »

Introducing SPU’s newly elected Faculty Council

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

Read More »

SPU footballer shines on international stage

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

Read More »

Stellar victories for SPU Rugby

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

Read More »

Checkmate

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

Read More »

Collection of graduate certificates

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

Read More »

SPU’s Golf Day drives support for students

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

Read More »

A boost for SPU Rugby

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,

Read More »

Statement on student protests – 7 March 2024

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

Read More »

Celebrating success: SPU’s graduation ceremony

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

Read More »

Motsepe Foundation boosts student support at SPU

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

Read More »

SPU’s Decade of Unity: Community Big Walk 2024

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

Read More »

Greetings, SPU Class of 2024!

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

Read More »

Celebratory Dinner for SRC Transition

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

Read More »

SPU students excel at AI Hackathon

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

Read More »

Collaboration inspiring student entrepreneurship

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

Read More »

Annual Student Leadership Excellence Awards 2023

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

Read More »

CAHAU’s Green Ambassadors launch #MySPUTree Campaign

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

Read More »

Students recognised for teaching and learning excellence

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

Read More »

SPU response to Student Representative Council

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

Read More »

Celebrating success at SPU Sports

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

Read More »

Third talk NAS seminar series

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.

Read More »

SPU students to showcase innovation at ENACTUSZA

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

Read More »

Gemmie fire at USSA Winter Games 2023

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

Read More »

SPU hosts thought provoking dialogue with the youth

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

Read More »

Librarians Day book donation drive

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

Read More »

Something big is coming: a first at SPU

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

Read More »

From mascot to graduate

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

Read More »

CAHAU honours excellence at a glitzy ceremony

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

Read More »

SPU trio selected for Northern Cape Diamonds team

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

Read More »

EDHE Intervarsity Launch

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

Read More »

SPU Sport hosts enthralling Sports Day

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

Read More »

SPU Statement on Student Protest

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

Read More »

Vice-Chancellor welcomes the class of 2023

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

Read More »

A year of sporting excellence

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

Read More »

SPU students take 3rd place at Datathon

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

Read More »

USSA 2022 Chess Tournament hosted at Sol Plaatje University

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

Read More »

SPU Vice-Chancellor hosts SRC Inauguration Dinner

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

Read More »

SPU hosts its inaugural Student Leadership Awards

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

Read More »

Call for applications: AOCA Student Academic Mentors x30

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

Read More »

Important update: House Committee Elections 2022

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,

Read More »

ENACTUS launches its initiative on the SPU campus

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

Read More »

Update: Residence vacation accommodation

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.

Read More »

Award-winning science project boosts teacher skills

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

Read More »

Tennis team scores place at USSA Championships

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

Read More »

Invitation: Launch of the SPU Sport Brand

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

Read More »

2022 Graduation Ceremony

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

Read More »

SPU launches Gender-Based Violence Awareness Campaign

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,

Read More »

SPU campus goes green and clean

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

Read More »

New students welcomed

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.

Read More »

SPU @ EDHE Lekgotla 2021

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

Read More »

Provisional Election Results: SRC 2021/2022

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

Read More »

Register with Feenix today!

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

Read More »

Continuation of Alert Level 4

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

Read More »

Students views on #YouthDay2021

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

Read More »
EDHE Intervarsity Internal Round and Official SCP Launch poster

EDHE Intervarsity Internal Round and Official SCP Launch

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,

Read More »

Youth Day conversation

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

Read More »

Invite: Regional Study Abroad Fair 2021

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

Read More »

Update: Delay to the start of the second term

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

Read More »

Delay to the start of the second term

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

Read More »

SPU at Alert Level 3

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

Read More »

Message from the CFO: Disbursement of Allowances

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

Read More »

Studentpreneur elected as deputy chairperson

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

Read More »

Entering banking details on iEnabler

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

Read More »

Alumni crowned Miss Kimberley 2021

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

Read More »

Commencement of the academic year

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

Read More »

Information for first-time entering students

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

Read More »

Resumption of the 2021 academic year

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.

Read More »

Disruption to start of academic year

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

Read More »

Management responds to SRC demands

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

Read More »

Registration deadline further extended

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

Read More »

2020 was a mess but…

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

Read More »

2023 Peer Mentor application are open

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

Read More »

Farewell from the SRC President

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

Read More »

3rd annual Student Entrepreneurship Week

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

Read More »

Graduate internships

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

Read More »

Attention all SPU students

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.

Read More »

Directive from VC – 2020 SRC elections

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

Read More »

#Breadchallenge drives soup kitchen

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

Read More »

Regional Virtual Study Abroad Fair

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

Read More »

Interested in the entrepreneurship space?

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

Read More »

“I know what it’s like to have nothing”

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

Read More »

NCPETF 2021 study assistance

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:

Read More »

Studentpreneur to compete at finals

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

Read More »

NSFAS 2021 applications now open

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

Read More »

Shoprite Holdings awards bursary

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

Read More »

First female SRC president

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

Read More »

“My vision to succeed kept me going”

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,

Read More »

Social relief fund for students

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

Read More »

You are invited to the #VirtualGradExpo

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

Read More »

Phased return of students to campus

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

Read More »

Preparations to return to campus

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

Read More »

e-Learning orientation and data allocation

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

Read More »

SPU’s 2019 football player of the year

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

Read More »

Notice: Student financial enquiries

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

Read More »

Student survey underway

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’

Read More »

Xolani takes gold at top chess championship

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

Read More »

Chess champion: Game a good life analogy

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,

Read More »

Students selected for leadership programme

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

Read More »

Former SRC president flies NC sports flag

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

Read More »

Student takes African short fiction award

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

Read More »

SPU drama group to feature at NAF

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

Read More »

First data science honours class for SPU

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

Read More »

Inaugural intake for postgrad programme

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

Read More »

“First Things First” success at SPU

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

Read More »

University puts health first

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

Read More »

Seta bursaries for honours students

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

Read More »

Bootcamp for NAS honours students

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

Read More »

Atsile puts SPU Data Science on the map

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

Read More »

Parliamentary Committee visits SPU

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

Read More »

Absa gives R4.5m for data science

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,

Read More »

SPU ready for Registration 2019

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

Read More »

Cycle and study: It’s how we “roll”

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

Read More »

SPU prepares for 2020-21 buildings

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

Read More »

From student to employee

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

Read More »

Students get entrepreneurship grooming

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

Read More »

Rebaone talks about Chinese ICT exchange

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

Read More »

Top biological sciences graduate off to Rhodes

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

Read More »

NAS students show off web skills

On completion of the first-year multimedia foundations I module for the ICT diploma at SPU, students should be able to understand the essential multimedia concepts for the Web. In addition, students should then be able to plan, design and develop

Read More »

SPU gears up for graduation

SPU is all set for graduation which is expected to take place on Saturday, 15 December 2018 at the examination hall at Central Campus. Over 200 students will graduate from the Schools of Humanities, Natural and Applied Sciences, and Education.

Read More »

SPU graduates to benefit with Accenture

SPU and Accenture South Africa signed a Memorandum of Understanding on 10 October 2018, to launch the internship programme during a ground-breaking ceremony. Accenture is a global management consulting and professional services firm that provides strategy, consulting, digital, technology and

Read More »

Good performance by lady footballers

At the University Sports South Africa (USSA) week, the team was in Group B and played against the University of Mpumalanga which they won 3-1. This was followed by a loss against Rhodes University and a draw against UWC. The team

Read More »

2018 belongs to men’s football

The men’s football team did exceptionally well this year winning five games and finishing top of their pool in the recent USSA national tournament but finally losing 1-0 to Mangosuthu University. At the end of the tournament, the team took second

Read More »

SPU dances its way to second place

The SPU Dance sports team came second out of 13 institutions. Two couples also made it to the ballroom and Latin American finals with fourth place in ballroom and fifth in Latin American. The team is busy preparing for the International

Read More »