Omphile Mathupe (Royal Bafokeng), Tshepo Molefe (Royal Bafokeng), Refilwe Rammitlwa (Royal Bafokeng), Bongi Lebeloane (Technology Enhanced Learning Coordinator), Hopolang Mokotjo (HR Coordinator) and Makhosonke Vilakazi (Student Counsellor)
On 20 April 2026, the Unisa Midlands Region and the Royal Bafokeng Administration (RBA) representatives met for the first time at the Unisa Rustenburg hub, with the intention of establishing a formal and long-term partnership to strengthen community development, improve skills and foster socioeconomic growth within the Royal Bafokeng Nation (RBN).
Both parties identified key areas and opportunities for collaboration, such as internships and work-integrated learning (WIL) opportunities for Unisa students, skills development initiatives, food security and joint research projects in water technology and innovation, as well as expanding access to higher education, career guidance and employability training for youth and disadvantaged individuals in the RBN.
This relationship is a vital initiative for alleviating poverty and unemployment, bridging service delivery gaps in Royal Bafokeng and surrounding villages, and empowering communities through education, skills and innovation.
Makhosonke Vilakazi, student counsellor, noted that this collaboration demonstrates a mutual commitment to uplifting communities via education, skills development and innovation. "By working together, Unisa and the Royal Bafokeng Administration can create sustainable opportunities that uplift the lives and strengthen the socioeconomic fabric of the Royal Bafokeng Nation," he stated.
* By Monica Nong, Office of the Regional Director, Midlands Region
Publish date: 2026-05-20 00:00:00.0
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