The campus was founded in 2004 by Ggebenya Community under the auspices of Western Thembu-Land through Nelson Mandela Foundation. It stated to operate in 2006, by offering DHET conventional programs as well as short courses to the surrounding communities.

The Campus is named after Queen Nonesi, wife of Ngubengcuka the great king of aba Thembu. The grave of Queen Nonesi two kilometres away from the campus is one of the Tourist attractions in the area. The campus forms part of Queen Nonesi Cultural village complex.

Since it started to operate in 2006, the social life of the community has changed in one way or the other. Most of the students who enrol at the campus come from far and reside within the community. This brings new life to the community, during their stay to the community students are able to share their knowledge for community empowerment through various community projects.