It’s Open Day in Potchefstroom, and the campus was painted purple! The morning breeze was icy, but the energy was electric. A long line of cars snaked outside the main gate, with NWU Protection Services on high alert, guiding traffic like pros. The sun peeked out and hit the iconic white building just right, a picture-perfect moment to start a day full of excitement.

On the lawn just outside the building, the House Residence stalls stole the spotlight. Built from scratch by students the night before (yes, the night before!), they stood proudly, decked out in colour and creativity, each one boldly representing its residence values, missions and the vibrant life that comes with being part of the NWU family.

Not far off, a massive digital screen played the NWU application video on loop, giving step-by-step guidance for future NWU eagles ready to take the next step in their journey.

And then, of course… Lovers' Lane! An absolute vibe. Learners and parents were buzzing from all directions, one group snapping pictures under the balloon arch that read “It All Starts Here,” while another explored stall after stall, chatting with NWU academics and students. Every inch of the campus was filled with curiosity, laughter, questions, answers,  and the unmistakable feeling that something big was happening.

The faculties came fully prepared and showed up in true NWU style.

The Faculty of Natural and Agricultural Sciences drew a crowd early on, thanks to their attention-grabbing displays, a bold, colourful DNA strand stood tall, right next to an exposed fish structure that had learners fascinated. Staff and students enthusiastically shared insight into the many programmes the faculty offers, you could literally see curiosity turning into career goals right before your eyes.

At the Faculty of Education, it was all smiles and balloons! A stunning setup featuring soft pastel balloon arrangements and golden helium letters spelling out “Education” gave the stall a festive and welcoming feel. Learners lined up to participate in activities and walked away with gift bags, medals, and all the info they needed to kick-start their journey as future educators.

And then… the Faculty of Law served courtroom realness. Picture this: pews and chairs arranged for a mini court sitting on both sides of their stall. The Student Academic Chapter (SAC) students weren’t playing, dressed in full law regalia and heels, they handed out pamphlets and answered questions like true professionals. If you ever needed a sneak peek into the world of law, this was it.

The School of Music gave us nostalgia and class with their gallery-style setup. From historic photos to proud achievements on display, the stall felt like walking through a timeline of excellence and artistry.

Now, let’s talk about the Amphitheatre. Guuuuuys? It was packed! The atmosphere was unmatched as the NWU Orchestra filled the air with soothing melodies that wrapped around the audience like a warm hug. Then came the moment that grounded the day: an address by the Principal and Vice-Chancellor of NWU, Prof. Bismark Tyobeka, reminding everyone of the purpose of the day, a celebration of possibilities, futures, and bold beginnings.

After that, the learners and parents were off! Free to roam, engage, ask, experience and explore every corner of what NWU Potchefstroom has to offer, from faculties to residences, societies, and activities.

We also had Shandor Potgieter, host of The Good Morning Breakfast on OFM present with us. He eased and welcomed the crowd, setting the tone for a day packed with possibility.

Later that morning, he stepped into the buzzing PUKfm studio space, where bright-eyed student presenters waited eagerly. What follows is less of an interview and more of a masterclass. He doesn’t just talk, he listens, laughs, and reflects. Questions fly. Advice lands.

Together with the PUKfm team, Shandor headed out onto campus to capture the day in real-time, interviewing prospective students, sharing mic space, and exchanging stories between generations of radio voices.

If you couldn’t make it to Potch, don’t stress, your moment is still loading! The Vanderbijlpark Campus Open Day is happening on Saturday, 24 May, and it promises to be just as electric, inspiring, and full of NWU magic.

We’re ready to meet you, guide you, and show you what your future could look like when you let your curiosity lead.

Not registered yet? Do it now here and be part of something unforgettable. 

NWU is where it all starts. Let’s meet you there!