By KEDIBONE MOLAETSI
29 September 2025- The North West University (NWU) said it is proud to announce a colloquium in honour of Professor John Makhene, the founding vice-chancellor of the former University of Bophuthatswana, now the NWU. The university said the event will take place on 3 October 2025, at Mmabatho Palms Hotel, Mahikeng.
The NWU Communications Manager (Mafikeng campus), Oscar Mosiane said this prestigious colloquium will celebrate Makhene’s enduring legacy as a pioneering academic, transformative leader and fierce advocate for accessible and inclusive education during one of the most pivotal periods in South African higher education history. Mosiane said the event will be held under the theme: “Academic Leadership as a Catalyst for Transformative Change”.
“The programme will include keynote tributes from senior academics and public sector leaders, panel discussions reflecting on the academic and historical significance of Makhene’s leadership and personal reflections from colleagues, former students and family.
“This includes a multimedia exhibition and cultural performances. The colloquium will provide a platform to reflect critically on the development of higher education in South Africa, acknowledge Makhene’s foundational leadership role and explore the future of ethical, transformative academic leadership in our country and on our continent,” he said.
Mosiane further said Makhene laid the foundation for an institution that grew into one of the most respected universities in South Africa. He added that as the NWU, they continue to walk the path he helped
to forge, one rooted in equity, excellence, and access,” said Mosiane.
The Guardian 