VANDERBIJLPARK – NorthWest University (NWU) recently hosted its Alumni & Friends Business Breakfast at the Big Lapa on the Vanderbijlpark Campus.
This engaging event was a joint initiative of the NWU Alumni Relations Office, the Faculty of Economic and Management Sciences, and the Faculty of Humanities.
With a timely and forwardlooking theme, “The Role of government and the Business Community in South Africa’s Economic Recovery and Positioning as the Best Tourism Destination in the World,” the gathering brought together a diverse audience, including NWU alumni, business leaders, academics, and students.
The breakfast served as a networking opportunity and a platform to reflect on the shared responsibilities of academia, government, and the private sector in shaping South Africa’s economic future.
The event featured a distinguished panel of speakers, who provided valuable insights during the discussion.
Clement Manoko, Executive Director for NWU Corporate Relations and Marketing, opened the conversation by highlighting the university’s ongoing efforts to build strategic partnerships and foster strong relationships between academia and industry.
Professor Kedibone Phago, Director of the School of Government Studies at NWU, emphasised the importance of ethical governance and collaborative public-private sector engagement in driving national development. Jeff Mabunda, Tourism Market Intelligence Manager and Acting Chief Business Development Officer, offered an in-depth analysis of current trends in the tourism sector, along with the challenges and opportunities it faces as a potential catalyst for economic recovery.
Among many others, Rudolf Harmse, Managing Director of Pont de Val Estates, shared an entrepreneurial perspective, discussing the need for innovation and adaptability in the tourism and hospitality industries.
The discussion was expertly facilitated by Liabo Setho, a respected news anchor for OnPoint on SABC, who brought energy and professionalism to the conversation, encouraging meaningful engagement among the panelists and the audience.
Professor Sibusiso Chalufi, Acting Deputy Vice-Chancellor for Vanderbijlpark Campus Operations and Executive Director of Student Life, delivered a warm and thoughtful vote of thanks.
He applauded all participants and attendees for their dedication to collaboration and their shared vision for the future of South Africa. Event organiser Zanele Ngobese described the business breakfast as a significant success.
“We’re incredibly proud of how the event brought together such a diverse and inspiring group. This wasn’t just about exchanging ideas; it was about igniting collaboration, sparking innovation, and creating momentum for lasting partnerships. It reflects NWU’s mission of meaningful engagement and forward-thinking leadership.”
