On August 1st, Kanton, a prominent real estate development firm, unveiled the Akademia campus project in Pretoria, a key initiative under the Toekomsbouer (Future Builder) campaign. This project marks a significant milestone for the Afrikaans-speaking community, symbolizing a commitment to the sustainability of higher education in Afrikaans.

Since 2012, Akademia has operated with temporary infrastructure. The institution's expansion began in 2021, leading to the establishment of two campuses, four residences, two day houses, and an administrative head office across Centurion. The new campus in east Pretoria will consolidate these developments, providing a permanent base for future students to enjoy a vibrant campus life.

“This new campus fulfills a long-held dream, reflecting the power of a united community achieving the seemingly impossible,” said Marthinus Visser, managing director of Akademia. “The Toekomsbouer campaign invites the community to participate in a transformative project for Afrikaans education and culture.”

The campus, located eight kilometers from Solomon Mahlangu Drive on Boschkop Road, aims to support 5,000 full-time undergraduate and 1,500 postgraduate students. It will feature four men’s and four women’s residences, accommodating 1,500 students. The comprehensive academic program will cover all faculties, meeting the diverse needs of prospective students.

Phase one, costing approximately R1.8 billion, is slated for completion by January 1, 2028. The total project cost exceeds R3 billion. “The second phase will complete the academic and residential facilities, followed by sports amenities, a chapel, and an auditorium,” stated Henk Schalekamp, Kanton’s managing director. The campus will boast office blocks, lecture halls, laboratories, a library, residences, and world-class sports facilities, including an experimental farm for natural sciences and agriculture.

Kanton, conceived as a vehicle to finance Afrikaans cultural projects, will lead the development. “Our model, blending cultural and financial objectives, ensures robust support for community institutions while offering investors both financial and cultural returns,” Schalekamp explained. The success of the Sol-Tech Campus underscores Kanton’s capability to manage and grow profitable portfolios.

In collaboration with Pallidus, specializing in corporate financial advice and investment management, Kanton has structured a funding model akin to traditional real estate and infrastructure investments. Initially targeting institutions and affluent individuals, Kanton will eventually open investment opportunities to the broader community.

Enthusiasts are encouraged to join the Toekomsbouer initiative by tracking progress at www.toekomsbouer.co.za. Details on individual investments will be shared with campaign participants shortly.

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