Potchefstroom Campus News
Special moment for dean as daughter graduates in programme she championed
Twelve years ago, Prof. Liezl van Dyk, executive dean of the Faculty of Engineering, came to the North-West University (NWU) on a mission: to play a central role in developing industrial engineering as an impactful discipline at the university. Her daughter, Karla, was 10 years old at the time. Now, on 31 March this year, Prof. van Dyk experienced the fruits of her labour first-hand when Karla graduated as an industrial engineer.
“It is a full-circle moment that highlights the impact of academic leadership and the inspiration it offers to future generations of women in engineering… Read more
Pioneering South Africa's circular economy
Gone are the days of the throwaway economy. Environmental scientists and pioneers like Prof Linda Godfrey of the North-West University (NWU) are leading the charge towards a thriving circular economy.
With over 20 years dedicated to studying the waste sector, Prof Godfrey has observed the unsustainability of the traditional linear…
Naomi Matthys and her dedication to Sign Language education
Sign Language is more than just a means of communication; it's a powerful tool that bridges the gap between the Deaf and hearing communities, fostering inclusion and understanding.
In South Africa, the recognition of South African Sign Language (SASL) as an official language has underscored its importance, leading to a growing demand…
Alumnus turns challenges into beats
Thato Rantekane, better known as DJ Ooh Shucks, started his journey at the North-West University (NWU) in 2017. Like many students, he faced some bumps along the way, and in 2019, things got so tough that he had to step away from his studies. However, what seemed like the end became an essential new chapter for Thato.
After leaving…
Academic advocates for integrated rare disease treatment
Prof Chris Vorster, a chemical pathologist from the North-West University’s (NWU’s) Centre for Human Metabolomics, delivered a compelling presentation at the 21st Annual Symposium on Diseases Relevant to South Africa.
…Paris and a podium for Terseus Liebenberg
On Saturday, 10 August, in a packed Stade de France, Jo-Ané van Dyk won an Olympic Games silver medal in the javelin throw, and beaming at her in the Parisian night was her coach, Terseus Liebenberg. There might be a few more silver streaks in the wily old fox’s mane, but…
Groundbreaking research leads to comprehensive and effective approach to forensic interviewing
The North-West University’s (NWU’s) Optentia research unit recently celebrated a significant milestone with delivering the first PhD graduate in social sciences with relational dynamics and development. The groundbreaking research of Dr Constant Laubscher van Graan focuses…
Debate Society wins at Southern Africa Debating Championships
Two students from the North-West University (NWU) recently clinched the championship title in the prestigious Southern Africa Debating Championships, hosted by die University of Botswana in Gaborone.
With this amazing performance, they marked a historic achievement for the university, as it was the first time the NWU reached the finals…
Internationally acclaimed pharmaceutical business leader receives honorary doctorate
The North-West University (NWU) bestowed an honorary doctorate on internationally renowned pharmaceutical business leader and NWU alumnus Jannie Oosthuizen on Friday, 2 August.
Mr Oosthuizen is recognised for his exceptional contributions to and significant standing in the international health sector, where he is considered a key role…
Engineering Postgraduate Open Day opens minds to endless possibilities
The Faculty of Engineering at the North-West University (NWU) held its Postgraduate Open Day on 25 July, granting prospective students the opportunity to engage with the faculty and peers.
The Open Day served as a platform for students to explore Engineering PhD programmes, the diverse research fields and advanced facilities of the NWU…
Meet our researchers
Researchers across the faculties at the NWU continue to produce exciting work in their fields of expertise.
We introduce the work of two researchers - Prof Anja Franken and Dr Suranie Horn, both from the Occupational Hygiene and Health Research Initiative (OHHRI).