The University of the Western Cape (UWC) hosted its Kimberley alumni gathering on Friday, 25 July 2025, an evening that drew the largest turnout among this year’s four regional alumni events and marked an important milestone for alumni in the Northern Cape.
The event opened with words of welcome from Professor Anesh Singh, Director of Institutional Advancement, who commended the strong attendance while noting the untapped potential of the Kimberley alumni community.
“Local chapters are the heartbeat of our alumni network,” he said.
“They connect graduates to one another and to the University, creating a powerful foundation for impact.”
Prof Singh extended special thanks to the eight alumni who volunteered to serve on the inaugural Kimberley Chapter Committee.
These included Ricardo Peters, Malindi Sichimwi, Rethabile Motshabi, Isaac Phiri, Natasha Bedford, Ophelia Tsieco, Moira Marais, and Jacob Jonkers, graduates whose leadership and commitment will be instrumental in shaping a vibrant alumni presence in the region.
Rector and Vice-Chancellor, Professor Robert Balfour, delivered the keynote address, taking alumni on a reflective journey through UWC’s history. Accompanied by nostalgic images of the iconic Student Centre and old Senate buildings, his talk reminded attendees of the spaces where many of their personal and professional journeys began.
Looking to the future, Prof Balfour unveiled artist impressions of proposed new campus developments, visions that were met with excitement and optimism from the audience. Yet, he emphasised that such ambitions will only be realised with significant support beyond government funding.
“We cannot rely solely on the state to fund our future,” Prof Balfour said. “The responsibility rests with all of us. By making legacy giving a habit and expanding UWC’s networks to include captains of industry and high-net-worth individuals, alumni can ensure the next generation benefits as much as we once did.”
The evening also featured a lively discussion session, where alumni raised questions on issues ranging from student access and housing to curriculum transformation. Prof Balfour responded with insights into the measures UWC has put in place to address these pressing concerns, underscoring the University’s continued commitment to equity and transformation.
Closing the evening, Prof Balfour congratulated the newly formed Kimberley Chapter and pledged his full support for its growth. “Your chapter will be the cornerstone of building a stronger alumni presence in this region,” he affirmed.
The Kimberley alumni gathering not only celebrated the enduring bond between UWC and its graduates but also laid the groundwork for a dynamic local chapter, one that promises to strengthen connections, expand opportunities and contribute to UWC’s lasting impact.
