Governance structures of the NWU

The Council governs the NWU through the adoption of purpose and value statements,strategic plans and policies, as well as the Statute, the rules, processes and delegations of authority. Furthermore, Council monitors the operational performance of management and establishes committees and, together with Senate, joint committees, to ensure that the NWU achieves its purpose and values.

The Executive Committee deals with important governance matters between meetings of the NWU Council and also acts as a Council membership committee.

The People and Culture and Employment Equity Committee (P&CEE) advises Council on all matters relating to people and culture (human resources) and employment equity.

The Remuneration Committee assists Council in carrying out its responsibilities regarding a fair and responsible remuneration philosophy and its implementation.

The Transformation Oversight Committee advises Council on the implementation of the transformational aspects of the Annual Performance Plan.

The Student Oversight Committee advises Council on all relevant student matters.

The Finance Committee advises Council on financial and investment matters and on long-term infrastructure development at the NWU (also through obtaining specialist advice from the Assets, Tender and Investment subcommittees).

The Audit, Risk and Compliance Committee advises Council on the safeguarding of the NWU’s assets, the maintenance of adequate accounting records, the development and maintenance of an effective system of internal control, oversight of management’s role in creating and maintaining a proper risk management process, and authorising the annual audit fee of the external auditors. It also provides a channel of communication between Council, management, the internal audit function and the external auditors.

The Student Representative Council is the duly elected body within Student Life that oversees the management of organised student life and represents students on various governance structures.

The Social and Ethics Committee provides oversight and guidance in assisting Council to develop an understanding of management and oversight with regard to the positioning of the NWU as an integral part of the society in which it functions.

The Senate is responsible for regulating all teachinglearning, research and academic support functions, as well as for determining academic policies and rules.

The Technology and Information Governance Committee assists Council with the governance of all information technology aspects at the NWU.

The Convocation is the body of alumni that is constituted with the aim of creating a link between the university and its corps of alumni. It also designates four members to serve on Council.

The Institutional Forum advises Council on the implementation of the Higher Education Act and national higher education policies, as well as on the fostering of a university culture that promotes tolerance, respect for human rights and an environment conducive to learning, teaching and research.