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

History subject group seminar series unpack the legacy of Koos Sas

History is more than just a collection of dates and events; it forms the foundation of our collective identity and guides us in making informed decisions. By teaching history, we ensure that past lessons are preserved.

To this end, the History subject group at the North-West University (NWU) started a seminar series, initiated by former…

Ancient texts and their interpretation for today’s society

Whether they are historically true or fictional, texts are not only informative, but are drivers of ideological change for their target audience, compelling their readers to adopt new behaviours such as morals and good ethical conduct.

Shedding light on these texts at the North-West University (NWU) is Prof Risimati Hobyane, a senior…

Shift to social media by local newspaper proves effective

Fortune Tsutsa’s master’s-degree research on the use of social media for newsgathering and reporting by the Potchefstroom Herald exemplifies the power of modern technology in journalism.

Digital news has become an integral part of the South African news landscape, with the majority of South Africans now getting their news from various…

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…