Feature • Denim Day and Aardklop

Connecting People and Progress at Aardklop with Prof Daryl Balia

By Geraldine Gerhardi
IT Communications Practitioner • Potchefstroom Campus Information Technology

On a bright Potchefstroom morning the familiar sound of the NWU Bussie signalled the start of a special Denim Day outing to Aardklop. At the heart of the trip was Prof Daryl Balia, Deputy Vice-Chancellor for Campus Operations in Potchefstroom, who joined colleagues and students on the journey. For him the day was about much more than a festival visit. It was a way to experience how campus life, community partnerships and the arts all contribute to a sense of belonging at the university.

As the Bussie rolled through the gates Prof Balia spoke about the importance of being present where people gather. Campus operations is often associated with buildings, security, transport and infrastructure, but behind these services are stories, memories and relationships. Events such as Denim Day and Aardklop create spaces where students, staff and community members can connect informally, share experiences and see one another beyond job titles or academic roles.

At the Aardklop art exhibition Prof Balia paused at several works that explored themes of identity, language and history. He reflected on how the arts can open conversations that are sometimes difficult to start in formal meetings. Creative expression gives people another way to explore questions about who they are, where they come from and how they fit into a changing South African society. For a university that serves diverse campuses and communities this kind of reflection is essential.

The visit also included a stop at the Brandefyn premium brandy stall. Surrounded by music, conversation and the energy of the festival, Prof Balia enjoyed hearing how the brand was created by three South African women who wanted a brandy experience that matched their sense of style and celebration. Their story of entrepreneurship and pride in local craft resonated strongly with his view that economic participation and creativity go hand in hand.

One of the highlights of the day was a light-hearted Brandefyntjie tasting moment, where Prof Balia and colleagues posed for a photograph inside the Brandefyn frame. The laughter captured in the picture speaks to something he often emphasises in his leadership. People do their best work when they feel seen, valued and able to bring their whole selves to campus. Shared experiences like these help to build that sense of connection.

Later the NWU Bussie video team captured an informal interview with Prof Balia on the road between campus and Aardklop. In the conversation he reflected on the importance of staff wellness, safe and reliable transport, and creating opportunities for students to experience culture outside the classroom. He also encouraged colleagues to embrace new initiatives with openness, reminding them that innovation often starts with small steps of courage.

Looking ahead Prof Balia believes that campus operations will increasingly be measured not only by how well systems run, but also by how people experience those systems in their everyday lives. From parking and security to event logistics and student support, every interaction is an opportunity to build trust and reinforce the idea that NWU is a place where people belong.

For a final glimpse into the day he invites staff to watch the short NWU Bussie video highlight. The clip captures the excitement of Denim Day, the sounds of Aardklop and the simple joy of colleagues travelling together. It is a reminder that behind every strategic plan there are real people who live the values of the university in moments like these.

In this way the Denim Day and Aardklop visit becomes more than an outing. It becomes a symbol of how NWU continues to connect people, place and progress. Through shared experiences, creative partnerships and caring leadership the university moves closer to its vision of a vibrant, inclusive community where everyone can thrive.