Potchefstroom Campus News
Prof Hans du Plessis: A literary giant passes away
He was of a different ilk. His immense literary stature cast a shadow under which so many South Africans found solace and comfort. Now, it is with sadness but also gratitude for the many contributions he made both culturally and academically, that the North-West University (NWU) has to say farewell to Prof Hans du Plessis, who passed away on Friday 24 October at the age of 79.
Prof Hans was a beloved NWU faculty member since his appointment in 1981 as a professor in Afrikaans at the former Potchefstroom University for Christian Higher Education.
He was an esteemed writer,… Read more
On the quest to save our freshwater sources
South Africa’s freshwater sources are under pressure from various kinds of contaminants, and North-West University (NWU) researchers are searching for ways to keep track of some of the more elusive pollutants.
Prof Rialet Pieters, a researcher in the Unit for Environmental Sciences and Management, is an ecotoxicologist whose interests…
NWU makes a clean sweep at international parasitology congress
Parasites may be viewed by many as pesky organisms,but understanding them and their impact on ecological systems is crucial in nature studies. The researchers and students at the North-West University (NWU) excel as experts in this field.
The NWU made history during the recent International Congress of Parasites of Wildlife by not only…
NWU experts share their journeys with breast cancer
It is the diagnosis dreaded by most: cancer. Two professors at the North-West University (NWU) who were both affected in different ways by this life-threatening disease, say the emotional toll it takes can be just as detrimental as the physical havoc it causes. They offer expert advice on how to deal with it when cancer becomes a personal…
NWU Faculty of Natural and Agricultural Sciences recognises its top achievers
By Oldrin Masowa
The Faculty of Natural and Agricultural Sciences (FNAS) on the North-West University’s (NWU’s) Potchefstroom Campus recently hosted an awards ceremony in recognition of top student achievers.
During the event students were rewarded for achieving top academic results in their various…
Shaun Bownes is now leaving tracks at the NWU
He is a legend who rewrote the record books. A diehard speed glutton who exhibited his talent on the global stage until he was in his late 30s. Shaun Bownes, the former hurdles champion of the African continent, is carved from granite.
He may not have been able to escape the injuries or stay ahead of Father Time, but heaven knows, he…
Solar training a priority at the NWU
Renewable energy constitutes an increasingly important part of our country’s energy package while we move away from fossil fuels. This, together with an attitude of becoming more environmentally friendly, means that renewable energy like solar and wind power will definitely continue to play a bigger role in power generation.
That is…
Branded, stigmatised and deprived: NWU expert says this is why some parolees reoffend
I paid the debt I owed them, but they’re still not satisfied; now I am a branded man out in the cold.”
These words of singer Merle Haggard ring true for many ex-offenders when they try to reintegrate into society.
South Africa’s harsh “stigmatising shaming culture” perpetuates discrimination against ex-offenders when they are…
NWU SisterHood Foundation launches Breast Cancer Awareness Day
Oldrin Masowa
According to statistics, every day one in 27 South African women is at risk of being diagnosed with breast cancer. This particularly affects those between the ages of 15 and 60 as most women – especially those from disadvantaged rural areas – can’t afford mammograms.
This is why the North-…
Faculty of Education hosts literature week
Oldrin Masowa
Storytelling is regarded as a form of information sharing and at the Faculty of Education they believe that great stories happen to those that can share them. The Faculty hosted a three day literature workshop on the Potchefstroom…
NWU Career Centre helps enrich students’ careers
Oldrin Masowa
Entering the world of work can be challenging particularly in a world which is constantly changing and in demand of new skills and information. Thanks to the North-West University (NWU’s) Career Centre students and alumni are able to reach their full potential through provision of…