Mahikeng Campus News

Construction commences on Mahikeng teaching facilities

The North-West University’s (NWU’s) Mahikeng Campus is increasing its teaching spaces by constructing new laboratories and lecture halls this year to address the growing needs of students and staff.

The construction of geography and life sciences laboratory spaces under the Faculty of Education began on 15 January. These facilities are located in the central parking area of the A4, A3, A9 and A10 buildings. New lecture halls are also being constructed behind the nursing building.

The new laboratory structure, spanning 1 600m², will include two 400m² laboratories dedicated… Read more

Can a digital platform save a language from fading away?

by Mafumane Tlhapi

A recent study by Phenyo Mokgothu, a master's graduate and communication practitioner with the North-West University (NWU), has shown that digital community newspapers can indeed preserve language and culture, even in the shifting landscape of online media.

"Every issue is published in an indigenous language, it’s not just about news;…

Expert warns of long-term risks of schools dropping pure mathematics

by Phenyo Mokgothu

When as many as 464 public schools in South Africa have elected to stop offering pure mathematics, the question is no longer about underperformance in mathematics, it is about absence.

While most of these schools still teach mathematics literacy, pure mathematics underpins engineering, science and certain types of problem-solving. When…

How to make young people part of the solution to tackling crime in communities

By Gofaone Motsamai

As South Africa continues to grapple with high levels of crime, a North-West University (NWU) researcher has highlighted the critical role young people can play in prevention efforts when supported and included in meaningful ways.

Dr Kgomotso Bosilong, a research support coordinator…

New discovery could help crops survive harsh climates

by Phenyo Mokgothu

Unpredictable rainfall and rising temperatures are threatening crop production across Southern Africa. A groundbreaking discovery by a North-West University (NWU) researcher could pave the way for stronger, more resilient crops capable of withstanding harsh weather and environmental stress.

Dr Moichwanetse Tsholofelo, who recently…

Prof Toyin Falola donates second set of books to NWU Mahikeng library

By Gofaone Motsamai

Celebrated historian and scholar Prof Toyin Falola has once again contributed to the academic growth of North-West University (NWU), encouraging students to view the 25 books he has donated to the Mahikeng campus library as a compass.

The donation was made shortly after he received an…

Jiu-Jitsu champion bags PhD

by Phenyo Mokgothu

Dr Elvis Moyo has fought his way to victory on the mats – and now he's done the same in the classroom. The South African Jiu-Jitsu champion has earned a PhD in applied radiation sciences from North-West University (NWU).

Dr Moyo received his doctorate during a graduation ceremony at the NWU's Mahikeng Campus on 9 May 2025.

His…

Campaign calls for understanding in mental health awareness, not stigma

by Phenyo Mokgothu

A 5km-walk through the streets of Mmabatho marked more than just a physical challenge – it was a call to recognise and understand the realities of bipolar disorder and autism spectrum disorder.

On 30 April 2025, members of the Lifestyle Diseases research focus area at the North-West University (NWU) joined forces with the Mahikeng…

Carbon tax and economic growth: navigating South Africa’s climate challenge

by Phenyo Mokgothu

South Africa's ambitious efforts to curb carbon emissions while maintaining economic growth are facing new scrutiny as researchers explore the link between carbon tax, emissions and GDP growth.

Dr Victor Mofema, a lecturer in the subject group Economics at the North-West University (NWU) and a recent PhD graduate, believes increasing…

Rethinking education in the age of artificial intelligence

By Gofaone Motsamai

As artificial intelligence (AI) reshapes how knowledge is created, shared and verified, questions are being raised about data use and bias, and whether it could be replicating Western biases and global gender disparities.

As AI systems learn to learn, they also force institutions to…

Shaping the future of sustainable agriculture

by Phenyo Mokgothu

The School of Agricultural Sciences at the North-West University’s (NWU’s) Mahikeng Campus is preparing a new generation of agricultural professionals through a combination of academic training, practical experience and sector-focused initiatives.

Comprising four core disciplines, namely agricultural economics and extension, animal…