A second chance for aspiring engineers: NWU welcomes 2025 Xcel students

For many aspiring engineers, the disappointment of not qualifying for admission can feel overwhelming. Failing to meet the requirements in key subjects such as mathematics and physical sciences can dash hopes. However, those determined to pursue their dreams now have a lifeline through the North-West University’s (NWU) Xcel programme.

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Study reveals shifting portrayals of women in South African advertisements.

Television advertisements influence how society views gender roles, and a new study from North-West University (NWU) explores how women are represented in South African adverts. The research, conducted by Koketso Rabanye from the NWU’s School of Communication, examined both traditional and changing portrayals of women in the media.

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Study explores bacteria in plants as a new source of medicine

Instead of further depleting overharvested indigenous plants for medicinal purposes, it might be possible to use the bacteria inside their roots. This would preserve at-risk plants while still allowing access to the medicinal properties associated with them.

A master’s study by Benedict Ndou, a researcher and a PhD candidate at North-…

Academic weighs in on possibility of South Africa losing AGOA trade benefits

The trade relationship between South Africa and the United States (US) faces uncertainty as tensions between Pretoria and Washington grow. The potential loss of benefits under the African Growth and Opportunities Act (AGOA) raises concerns about economic consequences for key industries.

"If South Africa loses AGOA benefits, the impact…

NWU expert weighs in on North West floods

Torrential rains have left parts of the North West Province struggling with school closures, damaged infrastructure and impassable roads. Learners in several areas were unable to attend school due to flooded classrooms and collapsed buildings, while scholar transport was affected by washed-out roads.

North-West University (NWU) Head of…

Prof David Luke calls for stronger African trade ties

Prof David Luke, professor of Practice and strategic director of the Firoz Lalji Institute for Africa, gave a thought-provoking public lecture at the North-West University (NWU). The public lecture was hosted by the TRADE research focus area on the Potchefstroom Campus.

In his lecture Prof Luke emphasised the importance of regional…

AICPA & CIMA’s Exclusive Academic Dinner: Accelerating leadership in finance education

On 18 February 2025, a distinguished group of academics gathered at the Fireroom, Montecasino, for the exclusive AICPA & CIMA event, Accelerate & Lead: Dinner with Academics. Hosted by Simon Bittlestone, FCMA, CGMA, President of CIMA and Chairman of the Association of International Certified Professional Accountants, the evening…

Dr Rassie Erasmus delivers guest lecture

He has a recipe for success, and he knows how to collect the trophies. One of South Africa’s favourite sons, Dr Rassie Erasmus, was a welcome sight back at the North-West University (NWU) when he delivered his first guest lecture since being awarded an honorary doctorate in 2024.

The lecture, entitled From the Sidelines to the Spotlight…

Researchers discover natural feed supplement that boosts lamb growth and meat quality

By Gofaone Motsamai

In the dry, sandy soils of southern Africa, a rugged survivor stands tall: Vachellia erioloba, more commonly known as the camel thorn. Once classified under the genus Acacia as Acacia erioloba, this hardy tree is also called the giraffe thorn, mokala tree, or kameeldoring in Afrikaans.

The political economy of South Africa’s budget impacts you

By Michelle Meixieira Groenewald

Welcome to a budget we need to pass under the Government of National Unity. South Africa’s budget speech was scheduled to take place on the 19th of February, and has now been postponed to the 12th of March. The Public Finance Management Act requires that the annual budget is…