The future of NWU Sport is not just bright, it’s purple

“At NWU Sport, our passion is sport, and we are privileged to make our passion our work.” 

These were the words of Mervyn Taylor, manager of the NWU Rugby Institute, as he concluded the North-West University (NWU) Sports Awards on 21 October. His statement captured the spirit of an evening that celebrated commitment, teamwork and…

Researcher studies traditional plants for natural pest control

When farmers face pests that damage their crops, many turn to chemical sprays. They often do not realise that indigenous plant-based practices can protect crops naturally, and that pest-control solutions already exist within traditional farming knowledge.

The use of chemicals is one of the common ways of managing pests. However, these…

North-West University salutes actor Hans Strydom and other groundbreaking alumni

The North-West University (NWU) honoured ten remarkable professionals at its prestigious biennial Alumni Excellence Awards ceremony held in Pretoria on 30 October.

This year’s distinguished honourees include veteran South African actor Hans Strydom, World Cup cricket star Tazmin Brits, and health economist Prof James Avoka Asamani,…

A critical reflection on global university rankings: Power, perception and prestige

By Prof Linda du Plessis

We live in a world obsessed with comparison. From “top performers” to “best universities,” rankings give the illusion of order in complexity. Yet, when it comes to higher education, these lists often conceal more than they reveal. Not everything fits neatly on a list, especially when…

Donor luncheon highlights the impact of donors and industry partners’ contributions

Donors and industry partners play a vital role in keeping dreams alive at the North-West University (NWU). This was highlighted at the annual Donors and Stakeholders Luncheon, held in Pretoria on 28 October, at which the university expressed its deep appreciation for these invaluable partnerships.

The luncheon is one of the key…

Academics champion well-being and decent jobs at international conference

Two leading scholars from the North-West University (NWU) took centre stage at the International Conference on Emerging Trends in Psychosocial Well-being (ETPW2025), hosted by the University of Namibia. Their contributions highlighted the critical link between decent jobs, mental health and human flourishing – issues at the heart of national…

NWU Business School welcomes extraordinary appointments

The North-West University (NWU) Business School is proud to announce the extraordinary appointments of Dr Yuanyuan (Gina) Cui and Dr Patrick van Esch, both from the E. Craig Wall Sr. College of Business Administration at the Coastal Carolina University. Their appointments bring exceptional expertise, research leadership and global academic…

Public-private partnerships are key to reviving South Africa’s ailing transport sector

South Africa’s transport sector stands at a critical crossroads: unless urgent investment and private-sector participation are channelled into public transport infrastructure, the country’s economy will continue to stagnate.

North-West University (NWU) transport economist Dr Olebogeng Baikgaki says GDP growth for 2025 is expected to be…

Give South Africa’s transport system a digital boost, says NWU expert

South Africa’s sluggish transport system could find new momentum through digitalisation and sustainable investment, says transport economist Dr Olebogeng Baikgaki of the North-West University (NWU).

He argues that integrating digital technologies such as artificial intelligence (AI), the Internet of Things (IoT) and electric vehicles…

NWU drives South Africa’s transport and logistics future with dynamic career expos

South Africa’s transport system comprising roads, rail, aviation, and maritime networks remains a crucial driver of driving the country’s economic growth and trade. Yet, it faces a range of challenges including infrastructure deterioration, skills shortages, inefficiencies in freight logistics, and limited connectivity in rural areas. According…