Plans to establish a new University of Venda (Univen) satellite campus in Louis Trichardt have advanced, following the finalisation of the land transfer earlier this year. However, uncertainty lingers over the progress of a second proposed university campus by the University of South Africa (Unisa), which has remained silent nearly a year after formally requesting land from the Makhado Municipality.

Univen confirmed late last month that the 33-hectare parcel donated by the municipality was officially registered in the university’s name in January 2025. The ceremonial handover took place on 28 November 2022. Situated opposite the Makhado Show Grounds and adjacent to Ridgeway College, the site is also set to accommodate student residences and staff housing.

Construction at either site has yet to begin, raising concerns among local businesspeople who had anticipated the economic benefits these projects might bring. If both institutions proceed as planned, Louis Trichardt could emerge as a significant higher-education hub in the region, expanding academic access and generating long-term socio-economic gains.

Mr Corné Smith, a Louis Trichardt fast-food franchise owner, explained the importance for businesses to stay informed about these developments. “Businesses constantly evaluate their investment needs to remain relevant. Knowing what might happen in the future is crucial for planning. I would be surprised if businesses aren’t considering the potential impact of this development on their operations,” he said.

Univen spokesperson Dr Takalani Dzaga said a feasibility study had been completed and would be presented to the University Council for approval before year-end. “Construction timelines will be finalised once approvals from both the University Council and the Department of Higher Education and Training are secured. There are no delays,” Dzaga said.

At the time of the land handover, then-Makhado Mayor Samuel Munyai said the development would create jobs and support the Musina-Makhado Special Economic Zone initiative, aimed at fostering integrated and sustainable growth. Univen Vice-Chancellor Dr Bernard Nthambeleni described the land transfer as a key milestone in expanding the university’s footprint.

Meanwhile, Unisa has yet to provide an update on its proposed Makhado campus. According to a presentation to the municipality on 15 October 2024, Unisa requested 28 hectares in Eltivillas Extension 2 — four hectares for the campus and 24 hectares for an agricultural training farm. The institution said this expansion would address rising student numbers and reduce reliance on leased buildings.

Council documents indicate that Unisa’s proposed facilities would include classrooms, administration offices, support services for students with disabilities, and a research-focused farm in partnership with the College of Agriculture and Environmental Sciences.

However, construction has not started, and there has been no public communication on the project’s status. On 23 July, Limpopo Mirror sent detailed questions to Unisa senior media officer Mr Tommy Huma, seeking clarity on the delays, funding, timelines, and academic offerings. Despite several follow-ups, no response had been received. “I haven’t got a response from Management at Facilities,” he said.