Food Tasting with SRC President & other Stakeholders

The University of the Western Cape (UWC) is pleased to announce that a new operator has been appointed to revitalise the Dining Room on the second floor of the Student Centre. After several years of vacancy, this space will once again become a vibrant hub for staff and students to enjoy affordable, healthy meals in a welcoming environment.

The Dining Room has remained unused since the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020, when institutions and businesses were forced to operate remotely or, in many cases, shut down entirely. With the easing of restrictions and return to on-campus life, UWC recognised the need to reinvest in spaces that contribute positively to the campus experience.

Rector and Nigel Pietersen

Following a review of proposals received, the University selected Mr Nigel Pietersen from The Food Hub Eatery as the successful operator. His proposal aligned closely with two of UWC’s strategic focus areas: enhancing the Student Experience and ensuring Financial Sustainability. Not only will his operation breathe new life into this space, but it also represents a valuable third-stream income opportunity for the institution.

Mr Pietersen’s journey in the culinary world is both inspiring and impressive. He began his career humbly, working at sea as a Deck Boy and Galley Boy, before transitioning to land-based roles in the hospitality sector. His talent soon earned him positions at several esteemed establishments, including the Newlands Sun Hotel and the iconic five-star Mount Nelson Hotel, where he served as Chef de Partie. He later took on the role of Banqueting Sous Chef at the Lord Charles Hotel, overseeing major events and managing the hot kitchen section.

His dedication to food service extended into the education sector, where he successfully ran two kitchens at what is now known as the Cape Peninsula University of Technology. He also made a meaningful contribution to food security by working with the Peninsula School Feeding Association to serve nutritious meals to disadvantaged schools.

Henry Arnolds, Nigel Pietersen, Prof Robert Balfour, Abduraghman Regal, Laurian Cupido & Sujit Bhagattjee.

Over the years, Mr Pietersen has catered for numerous high-profile events and figures. These include the historic first prisoners’ reunion on Robben Island and four consecutive birthday celebrations for Archbishop Desmond Tutu. He has also served as a private chef to both Professor Jakes Gerwel and Archbishop Tutu, and even made an appearance on the popular television show, Pasella.

We extend our heartfelt appreciation to the various departments and individuals who helped bring this initiative to life, including Infrastructure and Engineering (I&E), Risk and Compliance (R&C), the Student Representative Council (SRC), and other key stakeholders.

A special thank you to Mr Nigel Pietersen for choosing to collaborate with UWC. We also acknowledge the leadership and commitment of the Director of Business Development, Sujit Bhagattjee; Revenue Coordinator, Laurian Cupido; and, the entire Revenue team for their role in securing this exciting opportunity. Our thanks also go to Executive Director of Finance and Services, Abduraghman Regal, for supporting the Business Development Office in sourcing an ideal partner.

We look forward to the reopening of the Dining Room and to building a fruitful partnership that enhances campus life for our university community.