NWU-Pukke Excelsior Men’s Hostel: The House of Knights
- Karen Scheepers
- 3 days ago
- 3 min read
A Legacy Rooted in Tradition
On February 18, 1953, Dawie du Plessis-House was inaugurated as the first men’s hostel on the North-West University’s Potchefstroom campus, marking the beginning of a rich history. Named after a generous donor who contributed £2,000, the hostel initially accommodated 75 students. Over the years, the residence expanded significantly to house more students and foster a community defined by tradition, discipline, and excellence. By 1994, the original Makouvlei and the expanded Liberalia sections merged to create the Excelsior Men’s Hostel, affectionately called the “House of Knights.”
Structure and Growth
The hostel underwent further expansion in 2010, adding the Dawie du Plessis wing, which increased its capacity by 85 students. Today, Excelsior is home to six distinct halls, each fostering unique camaraderie and identity: Loners Dekker, Griffons, Harlequins, Barbarians, Legionnaires, and Knights.
At the heart of the hostel is a motto proudly displayed on every door: “Gentlemen don’t need rules.” This ethos, combined with the guiding scripture Proverbs 27:17, “As iron sharpens iron, so one man sharpens another”, forms the backbone of Excelsior’s values and traditions.
Vision and Mission
Excelsior is more than just a residence; it is a community where academic, social, and personal excellence are prioritized. The hostel aims to:
Shape value-driven, ambitious Christian men while embracing diversity.
Foster unity, discipline, brotherhood, and respect.
Encourage a balanced lifestyle that combines academics with extracurricular achievements.
Develop men who strive for the highest standards across all areas of life.
Core Values
Excelsior emphasizes the following principles:
Respect for different opinions, backgrounds, and races.
Living up to the name “Viribus Excelsior”, Latin for "With Strength, Higher."
Upholding the norms and values of NWU, ensuring residents contribute positively to the university community.
Facilities
Accommodation
Double Rooms:
Each room is designed to provide comfort and convenience, including:
Two beds, desks, bookshelves, cupboards, and mirrors.
A heater, fluorescent tube, and five electricity points.
A telephone for internal communication and a television point offering SABC and e.tv channels.
Common Spaces
Foyer: Managed by first-year students, the foyer controls entry to the residence.
House Committee Room: A secure space for leadership meetings.
Prayer Room: A tranquil environment for spiritual reflection.
Archive Room: Preserving the residence’s rich history.
Recreation Hall: A relaxation hub for students after a demanding week.
Computer Rooms: Open 24/7 for residents without personal computers.
Traditions and Activities
Mafia Nights
A celebrated first-year tradition, Mafia fosters teamwork, discipline, and camaraderie among newcomers.
Serenades
Excelsior’s serenade group has achieved recognition for its exceptional performances, blending comedy, music, and dance. In 2024, they secured fourth place in the men’s category under Wilhelm van den Berg's leadership.
Leadership and Community
House Committee (HC)
The Excelsior HC ensures the smooth running of the hostel, organizing events and maintaining discipline.Key members include:
Primarius & Seniors: Erik Beekman
Deputy Primarius: William Irvine
Arts: Tristan Hofmeyer
Transformation & Diversity: Ocran Botes
Finances: Brümmer de Klerk
Sport & Secretary: Pieter Cronje
Social: Hendrik Nel
Media & Communication: Marno Jooste
Rag & Maintenance: Hano Kotze
SRCS & Archive: Luan Herbst
Residence Parents
Mr. Etienne Mostert and Ms. Carmina Nake play vital roles in supporting the residents, fostering a homely environment, and ensuring their well-being.
Click here for Contact details: https://www.thegotoguy.co.za/business-card/nwu-pukke-excelsior-manskoshuis
Excelsior Website Link: https://studies.nwu.ac.za/excelsior/facilities
Excelsior continues to thrive as a hub of brotherhood and excellence at NWU Potchefstroom. From its state-of-the-art facilities to its deeply rooted traditions, Excelsior remains a beacon for men who seek to grow academically, socially, and spiritually. For those who call it home, it is more than a hostel, it is a way of life.
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