It’s 7 am. The campus has woken up. Stalls are being set up, banners flapping in the soft morning breeze. There’s a golden glow as the sun peeks over the horizon, casting light on what’s about to unfold. School buses begin to roll in — one after another — filled with learners from every corner of Mahikeng. There’s a buzz in the air. Footsteps echo as excited (and slightly nervous) high schoolers line up at the entrance. Some wide-eyed. Some whispering guesses about what the day might hold.
Then the music hits. At first, heads bob. A few hesitant dance moves here and there. But then, that one song drops. Suddenly, the hall is alive. Everyone’s on their feet. The vibe? Unmatched. And just when you think it can’t get any better… Eagi enters, striking a pose through the smoke, and the crowd erupts.
That’s when it clicks. This is it. The moment we’ve all been waiting for.
Welcome to the Mahikeng Campus Open Day. And if you missed it? Don’t worry we’ve got the full experience right here.
While the hall was bursting with energy, outside was just as electric. Our world-class faculties were all set up, vibrant, enthusiastic, and ready to connect with the learners. Each stall was a gateway into the future, packed with displays and hands-on experiences that brought study programmes and career paths to life.
The Faculty of Natural and Agricultural Sciences (FNAS) stood out with its earthy, inviting setup. Lush plants, varied soil samples, and interactive lab experiments set the tone for curiosity. On the table, an Africa map-shaped puzzle invited learners to test their geography skills. One corner featured a lifelike cow model, complete with labelled anatomy, while another drew attention with a gentle, soft-feathered Australorp chicken calmly pacing in its coop. Talk about learning coming alive!
Right across, the Faculty of Education brought colour and creativity to the fore, guitars, trophies, bamboo baskets, hula hoops, world globes, a celebration of learning in all its forms. But what truly stole the show? A kids’ area, where young ones could sit and play, sparking smiles from future teachers and learners alike. High schoolers flocked to the stall, eager to ask about APS scores and study options. The team was well-prepared, leaving no question unanswered and no curiosity unfulfilled.
Then there was the Faculty of Health Sciences, where things got clinical (in the best way)! A full skeleton greeted you at one end, while a half-body anatomical model and a life-sized mannequin on a hospital bed painted a vivid picture of what it means to study health. Student leaders stood by with warm smiles and helpful insights, answering every question and sharing the range of health-focused programmes learners could pursue.
And because student life isn’t just about academics, the Sports and Recreation section brought the fun! From fast-paced table tennis matches to intense chess duels, and exciting demos by the boxing and karate clubs, there was something for every kind of competitor. The cheerleading squad brought the energy, while cricket lovers found their people too. For the creative souls, the face painting station was a hit with colourful designs and artistic flair lighting up the smiles of learners as they explored the vibrant side of campus life.
The entire venue buzzed with excitement. Learners were fully engaged, asking, listening, and interacting with all the faculties (all eight faculties were present). The Student Campus Council leaders were everywhere, in full “hosting mode”, guiding students through faculty options, handing out pamphlets, and sharing contact info. There were lots of nodding heads, wide eyes, and hopeful grins. It was clear: the possibilities felt within reach.
Of course, none of this happens without funding. That’s why the Student Accounts and Bursaries Office was on hand, offering guidance on financial support and funding options. And because NWU cares about a healthy and whole student, the Student Counselling and Development department made sure learners knew that academic support and mental wellness go hand-in-hand.
This wasn’t just another event. It was the Mahikeng Campus Open Day, a full-on showcase of who we are: a university that doesn’t just educate but empowers. Where curiosity leads, and possibilities are endless.
And if you're thinking, “Okay, I'm sold! How do I apply?” We've got you! Check out these 10 steps to apply to NWU.
Missed Mahikeng? Don’t stress, the Potchefstroom Campus Open Day is coming up on Saturday, 17 May. Not registered yet? Click here to secure your spot!
We can’t wait to meet you. Stay tuned! We’re just getting started.
