The North-West University (NWU) celebrated a significant academic milestone on 2 September 2025 with the inaugural lecture of Prof Eunice Ivala, held at the Mahikeng Campus with the theme: “Scholarship of teaching and learning: towards holistic student success”.
This important occasion brought together members of the academic community, leadership and guests to honour Prof Ivala’s promotion to full professor and to hear her insights on improving the student experience through a research-led approach to teaching and learning.
The evening commenced with a formal academic procession, symbolising the university’s respect for scholarly achievement. This was followed by the stirring performance of the NWU anthem, setting the tone for an event that celebrated both individual excellence and institutional growth.
Prof Lloyd Conley, executive dean of the Faculty of Education, warmly welcomed attendees and introduced Prof Ivala, highlighting her academic journey, her contributions to teaching and learning, and her growing influence in the field of higher education pedagogy.
Championing student success through scholarship
Delivering her inaugural lecture, Prof Ivala presented a thought-provoking address on the scholarship of teaching and learning (SoTL) as a critical pathway to holistic student success.
In her presentation, she explored how SoTL creates intentional spaces for reflection, innovation and collaboration in teaching. She emphasised the importance of evidence-based practices, inclusive pedagogies and the integration of technology in supporting diverse learners.
“To realise holistic student success, we must move beyond content delivery to foster environments that support students’ academic, emotional and social well-being,” Prof Ivala noted. “SoTL offers us a framework for doing this meaningfully and sustainably.”
Providing a scholarly response to the lecture was Prof Johannes Cronje, who commended Prof Ivala’s vision for higher education that is transformative, student-centred and grounded in research. His remarks added depth to the evening’s intellectual exchange, acknowledging the broader implications of Prof Ivala’s work for the South African and global academic community.
In a heartfelt gesture of recognition, Prof Sonia Swanepoel, deputy vice-chancellor for student life, transformation, people and culture with the assigned function of the Mahikeng Campus, presented Prof Ivala with her certificate of full professorship. In her congratulatory speech, Prof Swanepoel expressed pride in the Faculty of
Education for fostering a culture of academic growth and creating an enabling environment in which scholars can thrive.
“This moment is not only a celebration of Prof Ivala’s personal journey, but also a reflection of the NWU’s commitment to academic excellence, transformation and nurturing the next generation of thought leaders,” said Prof Swanepoel.
The programme concluded with Prof Josef de Beer, acting director of the Research Unit for Self-Directed Learning, delivering the vote of thanks. He acknowledged the significance of inaugural lectures in the life of the university and praised Prof Ivala for her inspiring address and dedication to student success.
Prof Ivala’s inaugural lecture reaffirmed the position of the NWU as a university that values not only research and innovation, but also the human connection at the heart of teaching and learning. Her address called on educators to engage more deeply with their practice and to champion student success in its fullest form academically, socially and personally.
Prof Sonia Swanepoel, deputy vice-chancellor for student life, transformation, people and culture with the assigned function of the Mahikeng Campus, presents Prof Eunice Ivala with her certificate of full professorship.
