Young nurses make a difference at Witrand Hospital

Patients at Witrand Hospital recently received clothing and bathroom supplies from a group of fourth-year nursing students from the North-West University (NWU).

The students, who are completing their clinical hours in mental health care, said the initiative was part of their responsibility to provide care that goes beyond treatment.…

Being fully present with and for a patient restores wholeness

Ideal Healthcare is not only about treating patients but also about being fully present for and with them. This notion was at the heart of an inaugural lecture delivered at the North-West University’s (NWU’s) Potchefstroom Campus on 8 August 2025.

Prof Tinda Rabie from the Faculty of Health Sciences presented her lecture titled “Can the…

Expert guest editor for first special issue on sustainable food systems in southern Africa

A North-West University (NWU) expert in consumer sciences recently served as guest editor for the first special issue of the South African Journal of Science focusing on sustainable food systems in southern Africa.

Prof Annchen Mielmann says this landmark issue brings together contributions from a wide range of disciplines that deepen…

Dr Petronella Lunda has been elected to lead SOMSA North West

Dr Petronella Lunda, a maternal and neonatal expert from the North-West University (NWU) Faculty of Health Sciences, was elected as president of the Society of Midwives of South Africa (SOMSA) North West. Dr Lunda was honoured with this prestigious position at the 19th SOMSA Congress held at the OR Tambo Premier Hotel in Kempton Park from 13 to…

Nursing students join global collaboration to tackle health challenges online

Nine final-year nursing students from the North-West University's (NWU’s) Mahikeng Campus recently participated in an international collaborative project aimed at developing innovative e-health solutions to address global healthcare challenges.

The initiative formed part of the university’s internationalisation efforts and was…

Mental health awareness workshop encourages postgraduate students to prioritise well-being

Postgraduate students at the North-West University’s (NWU’s) Mahikeng Campus were given a timely reminder to prioritise their mental health during a mental health awareness workshop.

The in-person session, which Student Counselling and Development hosted on 5 August 2025, was for postgraduate students from different faculties, creating…

HART researcher steps into key SA Heart® leadership role

Researchers from the Hypertension in Africa Research Team (HART) at the North-West University (NWU) are making meaningful contributions to cardiovascular health in southern Africa. A member of this dedicated team, Prof Ruan Kruger, will now also contribute to the workings of the professional organisation representing cardiologists and…

Prof Welma Lubbe appointed Associate Editor of the International Breastfeeding Journal

Professor Welma Lubbe from the North-West University’s (NWU) Quality in Nursing and Midwifery (NuMIQ) Research Focus Area has been appointed Associate Editor of the International Breastfeeding Journal, a leading open-access, peer-reviewed publication dedicated to advancing knowledge and practice in breastfeeding.

The journal, published…

Celebrating Breastfeeding Week: Why we need to do more

Breastfeeding is every person’s first start in life, yet millions of South African mothers stop within weeks. A simple change in position or early expert support can make the difference between quitting and success. Myths, short maternity leave, and lack of workplace facilities are costing babies their best food. Supporting breastfeeding isn’…

Growing together, hand in hand, at Witrand Hospital

A spirit of collaboration and compassion is flourishing at Witrand Hospital, thanks to the innovative Taking HANDS community engagement project led by the Presence team of the North-West University (NWU) School of Nursing and NuMIQ research focus area. This inspiring initiative is transforming the hospital environment, fostering unity among…