The Faculty of Humanities at the North-West University (NWU) recently hosted a its first International Spring School. The event, held at the Khaya Ibhubesi Conference venue in Parys, saw 165 higher-degree students, promoters, and researchers from various South African institutions in attendance, making it a truly enriching and collaborative experience.
Under the theme "Humanities horizons: Navigating modernity and innovation", the spring school featured a lineup of distinguished keynote speakers, including Prof William Mpofu from the University of Johannesburg, who delivered a thought-provoking address on Afrocentricity.
Additionally, Prof Byron Bunt and Dr Lance Bunt from the NWU shared insights on preparing South African students for the AI-driven future, while Prof Ian Rothmann, also from the NWU, delved into the identity of an academic citizen in humanities.
The international perspective was brought by Prof Tunde Ope-Davies from the University of Lagos, Nigeria, who discussed de-territorialising digital humanities practices. Furthermore, Doris Viljoen from the Stellenbosch University Business School, shed light on the state of African future-thinking.
The event also featured 20 interactive workshops covering various research and creative output methods, providing attendees with valuable hands-on experience. Papers and posters showcasing the research endeavours of higher-degree students were presented, highlighting the academic excellence and innovation within the field.
Two engaging multidisciplinary panel discussions, "Strengthening an integrated criminal justice system: Prospects and shortcomings" and "Challenges, opportunities, and the voice of humanities in a rapidly changing world", fostered lively debates and conversations among national and international experts.
Notably, the research niche area, Visual Narratives and Creative Outputs (ViNCO), curated a captivating arts exhibition centred around the theme "My Digital Footprint", adding a creative dimension to the event.
Prof Mirna Nel, deputy dean for research and innovation in the Faculty of Humanities, expressed her satisfaction with the event's success, emphasising its positive impact on the academic community.
"Feedback from attendees highlighted not only the acquisition of high-quality academic knowledge and skills, but also the invaluable networking opportunities the spring school provided. PhD students particularly noted that the event played a pivotal role in alleviating the sense of isolation often experienced during their academic journey," she said.
She added that the event stood as a testament to the power of collaboration, knowledge sharing and academic enrichment.
"It has undoubtedly set a benchmark for future academic gatherings, fostering an environment where innovative ideas and scholarly discourse thrive."
The inaugural International Humanities Spring School was a resounding success.
