The Optentia Usiba Writing Retreat 2025, held recently at the tranquil Khaya iBhubesi Conference Centre in Parys, brought together over 76 researchers, doctoral candidates and academic staff from across South Africa and beyond for four days of transformative learning, writing and scholarly connection.
Hosted by the Optentia research unit of the North-West University (NWU), the retreat created a space for structured research progress, intellectual exchange and personal rejuvenation, set against the backdrop of the Vaal River’s peaceful landscape.
Participants were immersed in a carefully curated programme that combined expert-led workshops, individual feedback sessions and AI-supported tools for writing and research. The retreat featured an impressive panel of multidisciplinary scholars, including Prof Ian Rothmann, Prof Andries Baart, Prof Vera Roos and Dr Bruno Coimbra, among others.
Topics covered ranged from AI-assisted literature reviews and qualitative data analysis to mixed-methods research design and writing for real-world impact. Evening sessions like the Campfire Conversations and Moonlight over the Vaal dinners provided relaxed opportunities for deeper connection and reflection.
Anjonet Jordaan, project manager at Optentia, describes the event as a landmark in fostering research excellence and collaboration within the academic community.
“The success of the Optentia Usiba Writing Retreat lies not just in the productivity of our researchers, but in the sense of community, inspiration and academic generosity that filled each day. It was deeply rewarding to witness researchers – from master's-degree students to seasoned professors – growing and connecting in such a meaningful way.”
Throughout the retreat, participants reported significant progress on their research proposals, thesis chapters and journal manuscripts. Equally important, they left with a renewed sense of motivation and a deeper understanding of how to conduct and disseminate research that matters – to communities, industries and policymakers alike.
With structured coaching, tailored sessions and peer-to-peer learning, the retreat exemplified Optentia’s mission to develop pathways to humans flourishing through research.
Anjonet says feedback from attendees is abundant, revealing a unanimous sentiment that the Usiba Retreat has established a new benchmark for academic writing retreats in South Africa.
“There are potential plans to maintain this momentum with upcoming events,” she says.
Presenters and PhD students shared their experiences in this video:
The Optentia Usiba Writing Retreat was a great success.
