Human Interest News

Molelwane farm harvests success as student-led watermelon project generates revenue

Molelwane farm, the agricultural farm of the North-West University’s (NWU’s) Mahikeng Campus, has recorded a significant milestone following the successful harvest and sale of watermelons to the OK outlet at The Crossing Mall, demonstrating how practical student training can directly contribute to revenue generation for the university.

The Centre of Excellence in Indigenous Knowledge Systems’ journey to greatness

In 2001, the North-West University (NWU) established and launched a teaching, learning and research programme in Indigenous Knowledge Systems (IKS) at its Mahikeng Campus that was accredited by the South African Qualifications Authority (SAQA).

In 2009, discussions and planning commenced between the NWU, the National Indigenous…

Research unveils green nanotechnology to protect broilers from aflatoxin toxicity

Aflatoxin contamination continues to challenge poultry producers across the globe, posing risks to bird health, farm profitability, and food safety. 

In an innovative study at the North-West University (NWU) by MSc researcher Nonsindiso Masuku explored the use of green-engineered nanoparticles to protect broiler chickens against…

Red meat and its role in South Africa

An opinion piece by Prof Simon Letsoalo

Few sectors in South Africa carry as much historical, cultural and economic importance as the red meat industry. For many communities, livestock is not just a mere commodity but a symbol of wealth, social status, identity and food security. Yet, in recent years, red meat…

Psychosocial support in schools: An urgent educational priority

By Dr Khido Ramadie

The decision of the Department of Basic Education to invest in psychosocial support for learners and educators is both timely and necessary.

Schools increasingly face the effects of anxiety, trauma, socioeconomic hardship and behavioural challenges that directly undermine teaching and…

Putting people at the centre of digital innovation

The Centre for Digital Humanities was born out of the realisation that the humanities are central to creating equitable digital futures for South Africans.  “As digital humanists, we understand that technology exists within a network of human and more-than-human relationships,” says Prof. Janelize Morelli.  “True digital…

Building leaders to tackle hunger and malnutrition across Africa

For more than two decades, the African Nutrition Leadership Programme (ANLP) of the North-West University (NWU) has been shaping the future of nutrition leadership on the continent. Since its first programme in 2002, this flagship 10-day residential initiative, hosted annually at the NWU, has developed over 500…

Researchers demonstrate that conservation and development can go hand in hand

While cities in Africa expand rapidly and the pressure for economic growth is increasing, the protected areas on the continent face a complex challenge: how to conserve nature and empower people.

At the North-West University (NWU) the Protected Areas Research Group, led by Prof. Reece Alberts, Prof. François Retief, Prof. Claudine Roos…

Prof Linda du Plessis: South Africa’s future depends on rebuilding education

STEM education needs to be put in the spotlight for South Africa to revive its ailing education sector.  The education system is not producing underachievers; it is manufacturing exclusion.  Teaching must be restored to its former prestige, which is a respected, aspirational career rather than a reluctant fallback.  The state…

Empowering teens living with chronic illnesses

By Mzwandile Ndlovu

Teens living with chronic diseases need not be defined by their illnesses but by their potential and determination to succeed.

Dr Kezell Klinck, senior lecturer in the School of Management Sciences at the North-West University (NWU…