Walter Sisulu University officially launched her luxury Guest House at Nkululekweni (Place of Freedom), the former Transkei State House on the N2 in Mthatha last Thursday.

The twelve luxury double rooms, all en-suite, have been tastefully decorated to reflect the Walter Sisulu University brand and there is striking décor that is completed by black and white photographs of Eastern Cape scenes and people taken by University staff member Khuthala Nandipha.

Conveniently located on the quiet outskirts of Mthatha, but with lofty, sweeping country views, Nkululekweni provides 24-hour security and safe parking.  Nkululekweni is run by staff appointed and supervised by Walter Sisulu University.

The facility is also utilised for student work-integrated learning under the close supervision of the Department of Hospitality Studies: School of Tourism and Hospitality in the Faculty of Business, Management Sciences and Law. Apart from comfortable overnight accommodation with breakfast provided, Nkululekweni has function rooms which can cater for functions for up to 110 guests.  As yet unlicenced, however, Nkululekweni can provide alcoholic beverages for functions.

"This move will further improve the quality of education offered by the Department of Hospitality Studies in order to continue producing world class graduates such as Nokuzola Luwaca who was recently profiled by the Sunday Times," said Dr Loyiso Mbabane, Executive Dean of the Faculty of Business, Management Sciences and Law.

Luwaca, catering manager at Netcare Rand Hospital in Berea, Gauteng, recently left for the Culinary World Cup in Luxembourg, Germany also as part of her training for the Culinary Olympics in 2012.  Since 1980, South Africa has sent a team of chefs to compete in the 1KA Culinary Olympics, which takes place every four years in Germany. The Culinary Team SA training squad is made up of about 20 chefs from 25 countries.

"I studied hospitality at Walter Sisulu University and did my in-service training with Netcare Unitas Hospital in Pretoria," Luwaca proudly proclaimed.

A very enthusiastic Malcom Ellis, Acting Director for the School of Tourism and Hospitality added that this exciting venture will give the WSU students a great deal of experience. "We will offer the public the highest standard possible." He added that people have to pre-book and that dinner and breakfast will be offered.

The successful launch event was attended by the Chairperson of Council, Dr Somadoda Fikeni, the Deputy Chairperson, Mr Donny Nadison, Councillors, the Vice-Chancellor, Professor Malusi Balintulo, members of the Walter Sisulu University Foundation Board, Professor Malusi Balintulo, Executive Management, WSU staff and student representatives as well as delegates from Mthatha and other areas of the Eastern Cape.

The evening commenced with cocktails and canapés, followed by a three-course dinner all prepared by first year hospitality students under staff supervision. Service was also provided by the students. The WSU marimba band provided entertainment and Council Chairperson Dr Fikeni, unveiled the plaque commemorating the launch of Nkululekweni.

Nkululekweni has been leased by the University from the Department of Public Works and certainly now has a new lease of life.