Our Vision
To be the foremost guardian of institutional memory, fostering a culture of preservation, accessibility, and innovation.
Our Mission
Our department is committed to preserving the rich tapestry of our university's history, facilitating research, teaching, and community engagement through efficient records management, comprehensive archival practices, and curated museum collections. We strive to empower future generations by safeguarding the past and inspiring the future.
A brief history about the Records, Archives and Museum (RAM) department
In July 2017, the NWU Records Management department became its own entity after years within the Records and Administration department. This department focuses on managing records efficiently and effectively through a comprehensive program covering classification, retention and disposal, accessibility, security, confidentiality, training, and quality management.
The University Archives, established in September 1993, preserves records and materials related to the University's history. Since the NWU's formation in 2004, the Archives has managed the Potchefstroom campus's archival records and supported staff at Mahikeng and Vanderbijlpark. In 2017, all three campuses' archives merged into one department under the Registrar's supervision.
The NWU Museum, located on the Potchefstroom campus, features exhibits showcasing the University's history from 1869 to date.
The Purpose of RAM
The purpose of the Records, Archives, and Museum department is to preserve the institutional memory, facilitate research and scholarship, promote cultural awareness, support administrative functions, and enhance public engagement.
Preservation of Institutional Memory
The department at North West University is dedicated to safeguarding its historical, cultural, and institutional records, archives, and artifacts, ensuring their accessibility for future generations.
Facilitating Research and Scholarship
The department manages records, archives, and museum collections to support academic research and scholarship within the university community, providing access to primary source materials and cultural artifacts.
Promotion of Cultural Awareness
The department promotes cultural awareness through curating exhibitions, events, and educational programs, allowing the university community and the public to engage with diverse cultural, historical, and scientific themes.
Supporting Administrative Functions
The department is responsible for managing university administrative records, ensuring regulatory compliance, and facilitating efficient decision-making processes related to governance, policies, and operations.
Enhancing Public Engagement
The department utilizes outreach, collaborations, and digital initiatives to promote the university's cultural and intellectual assets, fostering partnerships and enhancing its reputation as a learning center.
North West University's department is dedicated to preserving its historical, cultural, and institutional records, facilitating research and scholarship, promoting cultural awareness through exhibitions and events, managing administrative functions, and enhancing public engagement through outreach and digital initiatives. It also supports academic research, manages administrative records, and fosters partnerships to enhance the university's reputation as a learning center.