Anticipation and excitement are building as the countdown for Newcastle’s new university to open its doors, is officially underway. This follows Unisa and the Newcastle Municipality inspecting the facility’s progress.
If you are not aware, the facility is situated at the intersection of Link Road and Hospital Street, where the old Borough Engineer’s office stands.
The area came alive on Wednesday morning, 11 September, as both Unisa and Municipal officials descended on the premises. The officials were eager to witness the progress made at the new university’s premises—a facility aimed at bringing the Newcastle Municipality closer to securing its 2035 vision of becoming a metropolitan.
During an address to the guests and officials at the site, Ntsiki Khathide, the Strategic Executive Director (SED) for the Municipality’s Department of Human Settlements, shared her reflections on the project’s significance. She stated, “The progress of the Unisa facility has been a long journey, as we wanted to create a conceptual and futuristic space for Unisa to establish its campuses in Northern KwaZulu-Natal.”
Khathide further explained that with the nearest university to Newcastle being in Pietermaritzburg, it was a priority for the Municipality to work closely with Unisa. By doing so, Newcastle would not only offer a learning space for local residents but also draw individuals from all over Northern KwaZulu-Natal.
This would save students from having to travel great distances and from the additional financial burden of paying for accommodation while pursuing tertiary education.
As the project moves closer to completion, Khathide reflected on the challenges encountered along the way. Problems with the contractor emerged during the process, leading the Municipality to take a more hands-on role, addressing concerns, and ensuring that necessary work continued. She further highlighted the commitment of Municipal staff, who had stepped up and played a proactive role by assisting in the work wherever possible.
In her remarks, Khathide also emphasised the historical importance of the premises, which dates back to the early 1950s when it served as a school before becoming the Borough Engineer’s office. She assured attendees that no changes were made to the façade of the building to preserve its historical significance. “With the building being a historical landmark, we ensured that no changes were made to the façade and all improvements and construction were only done to the interior,” she noted, adding the main construction would be complete by the end of the year with Unisa then left with the task of furnishing the building.
Moreover, Newcastle Municipality’s Cllr Bertie Meiring, who has been closely involved with the project, acknowledged the significant amount of work that still lies ahead. Despite this, he expressed his excitement and optimism about the progress made so far. He remarked that the Municipality is excited to see the development nearing its completion and anticipates that it will bring great benefits to the local community.
Reflecting on the collaboration between Unisa and the Newcastle Municipality, Unisa’s Director of Property and Acting Director of Maintenance, Aruna Maharaj, explained that while Unisa is currently leasing the land, there are plans to purchase the property from the Municipality in the future. Maharaj highlighted Unisa’s long-term commitment to Newcastle, emphasising that the facility would bring new opportunities for local education and community development.
“Unisa is looking forward to a fruitful relationship with the Newcastle Municipality and the community,” Maharaj emphasised.
Amidst the mounting sense of excitement, Newcastle Mayor, Cllr Xolani Dube, shared his deep connection to the project, noting how it aligns with the promises made during political campaigns. “As politicians, we made promises while we were campaigning that we would help build the new generation, and this project will truly ensure the next generation is capacitated to face the world. It will also be a relief to those who cannot afford to travel out of town for their tertiary education. Additionally, it will have a positive impact on the economy and create employment opportunities.”
As the project gains momentum, Cllr Dube also took the opportunity to praise Cllr Meiring for his steadfast leadership and dedication to the project. Dube acknowledged that much of the progress seen so far is a direct result of Meiring’s commitment to Newcastle’s development, and this project is further proof of his contributions to the town.
Following the official speeches and addresses, Unisa and Municipal officials were guided on a detailed tour of the facility. The building is set to house lecture rooms, spaces for online courses, a security office, administrative offices, and bathroom facilities, among other necessary amenities.
Looking back. the public was first made aware of the project when Newcastillian News reported on the establishment of the university in May 2024. At that time, Cllr Dube had announced the Municipality’s plans to join hands with Unisa for the benefit of the local community. The report revealed that Phase 1 of the facility’s renovations was estimated to cost R2,570,000, with Phase 2 projected at R3,693,659.53.
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As the facility continues to take shape, excitement is growing among officials and residents alike. With the completion date fast approaching, this educational development is set to change the scope of Newcastle, offering invaluable opportunities for the next generation of learners.
What are your thoughts about this transformative project? Share your views in the comment section below.
