NWU honours alumni tutors of Ikateleng Project
The Ikateleng Project is an educational support programme led by the NWU to boost academic performance among high school learners in under-resourced communities. It offers supplementary tuition in key subjects, such as maths, science, English, and accounting, held on weekends and during school holidays. The programme helps learners improve their results and access higher education.
The auspicious event brought together 14 distinguished alumni tutors who have served the Ikateleng Project for more than three years, many of whom are former student leaders from the NWU Vanderbijlpark Campus. The event served as both a recognition ceremony and a powerful affirmation of the university's commitment to community upliftment through education.
'The main objective of the event was to recognise and appreciate the dedication and long-term commitment of alumni tutors who have contributed significantly to the success of the Ikateleng Project,' said Kabu Sithole, activations and sponsorship manager at the NWU.
He added that these individuals not only excelled academically but also continue to uplift others through teaching, embodying the spirit of giving back to their alma mater and the community.
The event featured a meaningful programme that included a welcome by Sithole, who is also the Ikateleng project coordinator, followed by remarks from Zanele Ngobese of the NWU Alumni Office, who underscored the vital role of alumni in sustaining the university's outreach efforts.
A keynote address encouraged lifelong engagement with the NWU and highlighted the tutors' impact on shaping future generations. Acknowledgement of the tutors culminated in the presentation of personalised gifts by Azelda du Plessis, manager for Marketing and Student Recruitment. Mr Pule Pitso, one of the tutors honoured, delivered a moving reflection on his journey from student to mentor.
'This was not just a celebration, it was a reaffirmation,' said Sithole. 'By honouring these tutors, we are sending a clear message that their service matters and that their efforts are helping to transform lives.'
Sithole highlighted that the involvement of alumni tutors in the Ikateleng Project has enriched the initiative in numerous ways, providing continuity in teaching, relatable role models for learners, and a strong connection to the values and institutional culture of the NWU.
'The consistency and passion brought by alumni tutors have enhanced the quality and stability of the programme,' added Sithole.
'Their presence inspires learners, showing them that success is possible and worth striving for.'
While the event focused on the tutors, learners' voices were also present through a shared reflection session, where letters of appreciation and feedback from current Ikateleng students were read aloud – a moving tribute to the tutors' influence.
Feedback from the tutors honoured was overwhelmingly positive. Many expressed deep appreciation and a renewed sense of purpose, with several offering to take on mentorship roles or support new recruits.
The event was made possible by the NWU Alumni Office, in partnership with the Ikateleng coordination team, with discussions already underway to establish it as an annual tradition. Future editions may expand to include networking, mentorship and career development components.
'We are excited about institutionalising this event. It not only recognises service, but also strengthens alumni ties and opens doors for new initiatives that benefit both our graduates and current learners,' explained Sithole.
For alumni interested in contributing to future projects, opportunities include volunteering as tutors or mentors, participating in career talks, or supporting initiatives with resources or expertise.
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