By OBAKENG MAJE
24 February 2025- The North West University’ Siya Kolisi Residence was officially opened on 24 February 2025, by South Africa’s iconic Springbok captain, Siya Kolisi. His coach and mentor, Dr Rassie Erasmus, was also in attendance to unveil the university’s new Invictus Residence.
The NWU principal and vice-chancellor, Professor Bismark Tyobeka said the Siya Kolisi Residence will primarily be used by students affiliated with the NWU Rugby Institute, with Invictus being a multi-sport residence. Tyobeka as NWU, underscores the immense contributions that Siya Kolisi and Dr Rassie Erasmus have made to the nation.
“Is there an image that resonates more with rugby fans the world over than that of Siya Kolisi leading the Springboks onto the field? I don’t think so. Has our proud nation ever stood more steadfastly behind a sportsman than Siya Kolisi? I don’t think so.
“Could we ever have imagined that captain Siya Kolisi and his Springboks – under the tutelage of Dr Rassie Erasmus – would scale the heights that they did? That they would win two Rugby World Cups, that they would unite our country in a single voice as they roared their approval as victory, after victory, after victory followed? I don’t think so,” he said.
Tyobeka further said they are immensely proud to have Kolisi and Erasmus to unveil the Siya Kolisi and Invictus residences. He added that, Kolisi’s story is one that transcends sport.
“It is a story of perseverance, and the undeniable power of opportunity. From the humble beginnings in Zwide, where he first picked up a rugby ball, to leading South Africa to not one, but two Rugby World Cup victories. Siya has become more than a rugby player, but a symbol of hope and possibility. We celebrate you Nt’wakuthi.
“At the NWU, we don’t just see Kolisi as a sports icon. We see him as a leader, a trailblazer, and a living testimony to what can be achieved through courage and determination. Naming this residence in his honour is not just about celebrating his achievements on the field, but also recognising the values he represents: hard work, humility, and the ability to unite a nation,” said Tyobeka.
Kolisi said: “No one ever dreams to have moments like this, to have a building named after them. I am so honoured and grateful for this opportunity. I would like to thank everyone who has been a part of my journey. I am standing on the shoulders of many people who helped me be where I am today.
“I would like to say to the students who will be occupying this building that their blessings are to be shared and that they must keep working hard, no matter the obstacles in front of them. Your opportunities are not just for you. Your blessings are not just for you,” he said.
“I know that you all are on a journey and that you want to become rugby players. But, remember that you are more than that. You have an opportunity to study, and I wish that I used that opportunity. I didn’t,” he said.
Kolisi said rugby is not always going to work for everybody, so they should make use of all the opportunities. He said if they want to take anything from his journey, it is that they have to believe in themselves before anyone else.
Meanwhile, Erasmus, who received an honorary doctorate from the NWU in 2024, said he is privileged to be part of a university that thinks outside the box, and expressed his desire to see both the residences go from strength to strength. He also implored the students from Invictus Residence to give it their all in the pursuit of their dreams.
The Guardian 