Human Interest

Relocated telescope opens wider window on the universe

Shedding light on a subject is usually positive, but when it comes to the stars, the North-West University (NWU) is giving scientists a clearer view of the night sky by moving its 20-inch optical telescope off the bustling, light-polluted Mahikeng Campus.

The Mahikeng Astronomy Observatory (MAO) 20-inch optical telescope has moved from the fast-developing Mahikeng Campus to the university’s Molelwane Farm, where there is much less light pollution. 

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Alumni tour results in chapters and new memories

The North-West University’s (NWU’s) Alumni Relations office recently organised a series of reunions for alumni across the Northern Cape, Free State and Lesotho, bringing them together to reconnect with the university and discuss how they can contribute to its continued growth and development.

The tour started in Upington on 24 August, continued to Kimberley on 26 August and then to Bloemfontein on 27 August, before concluding in Maseru on 29 August. 

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Football Officials Development Programme opens new pathways for students

For many aspiring footballers, the dream is to make it onto the pitch as a player. At the North-West University (NWU), however, students are being encouraged to look beyond playing and explore the many career opportunities that exist in the football industry.

Through the NWU Football Officials Development Programme, the university is creating opportunities for students to learn the laws of the game, gain practical match-day experience and develop the skills needed to pursue football officiating as a potential career pathway.

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Fuel shock reaches far beyond the pumps

Deep pockets will no longer suffice; we now need them to extend all the way down to our knees. The fuel price increases that took effect on Wednesday, 2 September will place further strain on an economy struggling to keep its head above water. Achieving National Treasury’s already modest growth forecast of 1.6% for 2026 will be difficult enough, never mind exceeding it.

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Water users compete for a limited pool

Competition for water resources has become a reality in South Africa. With about 98% of South Africa’s available water resources already allocated, the country’s water challenge is no longer simply about finding new sources. It is increasingly about how the law protects, allocates and, when necessary, reallocates a scarce resource among competing users.

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Renewable Rangers crosses borders with Eswatini launch

An educational game inspired by a mother's experience with her two sons has crossed the borders of South Africa for the first time.

Dr Moleboheng Mokhele, an academic at the North-West University (NWU), formally launched Renewable Rangers in Eswatini during the fourth International Conference on Education at the University of Eswatini. The launch marked a new stage for an innovation that started at home and grew through research, classroom testing and university support.

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