Mahikeng Campus News

Neglect of indigenous languages amounts to a betrayal of revolutionary ideals



Prof Gilbert Motsaathebe

Once seen as a bastion of multiracial, multicultural and multilingual values, South Africa now stands accused of turning its back on the very linguistic and cultural diversity that made it a symbol of unity. 
This was the cautionary message from Prof Gilbert Motsaathebe, a full professor affiliated with the Indigenous Language Media in Africa (ILMA) research focus area of the North-West University (NWU). He who warned that the country’s failure to prioritise indigenous languages mirrors a broader erosion of… Read more

Dancers to represent South Africa on world stage

by Phenyo Mokgothu

Tebogo Baas and Matlhogonolo Bodibe are preparing to compete against the best in the world

Two North-West University (NWU) dancers, Tebogo Baas and Matlhogonolo Bodibe, are preparing to compete against the best in the world when they represent South Africa at the 2025 World Dance Championships (…

NWU takes part in first G20 National Tourism Hackathon

By Gofaone Motsamai and Phenyo Mokgothu

Innovation, collaboration and youthful energy took centre stage in Mpumalanga at the Sabi River Sun Resort, when North-West University (NWU) students and an academic participated in the first G20 National Department of Tourism Hackathon.

Dr Ncedo ka Ntloko, senior…

Turning anxiety into energy for public speaking

By Mzwandile Ndlovu

Many of us have felt a racing heartbeat and shaky breath before speaking in public, but this anxiety can be rechannelled into energy and confidence to take command of the podium.

This is the hope offered by Dr Sumartono Mulyodiharjo, head of the Department of Communication Science at…

Lecturer creates new poetic form inspired by Setswana and Japanese traditions

by Phenyo Mokgothu

When Motlhankane Lesego stood before an audience at Sol Plaatje University’s international conference to present a paper on Mosinete, a new genre of Setswana poetry, he left with more than notes. It sparked an idea that would become Haikaro, a new literary form.

“It was in the exchanges on intercultural creativity that I started…

Master’s student breaks new ground with study on black South African travel behaviours

By Gofaone Motsamai

While tourism remains one of South Africa’s biggest economic growth areas, little research has been done to investigate the travel habits of black city dwellers who are a fast-growing sector of the market.

Step up Kamohelo Lempe, a second-year MA Tourism candidate at the North-West…

Former NWU Soccer Institute duo make PSL breakthrough

by Phenyo Mokgothu

Two former North-West University (NWU) Soccer Institute players who once lit up the Varsity Football tournament have stepped onto the Premier Soccer League (PSL) stage. Banele Hlophe, a midfield talent who impressed with JDR Stars in the National First Division, has joined Chippa United, while Cameron Chweu has been signed by top-flight…

Symposium explores how South Africa navigates global agreements

By Gofaone Motsamai

Law students have a role to play in critically evaluating international institutions, including the United Nations and its Security Council.

This is according to diplomats and legal experts who spoke at a seminar on the development and conclusion of international agreements, hosted by…

Broadcasters share lessons in journalism

By Gofaone Motsamai

Textbook learning can only take one so far in the world of broadcasting. What counts is real experience behind the microphone. Students at the North-West University’s (NWU’s) Mahikeng Campus were all ears when two radio and television journalists visited the campus to share what it takes to…

Innovative research delivers eco-friendly, cost-effective feed solution for beef cattle

by Oscar Mosiane

The North-West University (NWU) is proud to celebrate the recent graduation of Dr Nozipho Phila Gamedze, who received her PhD on 16 July 2025. Her research marks a significant contribution to both sustainable agriculture and nanotechnology, showcasing the power of interdisciplinary science rooted in African innovation.

Her thesis,…

Credit access challenges for South African smallholder farmers

by Mafumane Tlhapi

Agriculture, a sector highly vulnerable to climate change, relies heavily on credit to invest in modern technology for efficiency and production. Despite this, many smallholder farmers in South Africa remain excluded from commercial bank loans, even though they make up a significant portion of the farming population.

A study titled “…