From 11 to 15 November 2024, the North-West University’s (NWU) Research and Postgraduate Support Directorate hosted a successful writing camp aimed at tackling the challenges faced by postgraduate students. Held in collaboration with the Writing Centre and the Chemical Resources Beneficiation (CRB) group, the camp provided a transformative experience for selected Master’s and Doctoral (M&D) students across NWU’s three campuses.

The camp’s core mission was clear: equip postgraduate students with the tools and support needed to overcome common hurdles in academic writing. M&D supervisors nominated 151 promising students, from which a diverse cohort was chosen based on detailed justifications provided by their mentors. This initiative has been made possible through the dedicated efforts and support of the Postgraduate Support UCDG project, which is proudly based within the Higher Degrees Academic Support (HDAS). Their commitment to fostering postgraduate success has laid the foundation for this valuable opportunity.

Upon arrival at the NWU Sports Village, students were warmly welcomed by the HDAS team, who outlined the week’s structure and objectives. Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) were defined to set clear personal and academic goals, emphasizing accountability and measurable progress. Additionally, the facilitator from CRB presented a workshop on academic writing.

Each day was meticulously planned, combining theory with practice. On the 2nd day of the writing camp, the sessions kicked off with concise, impactful writing tips, followed by intensive "sit down and write" periods. Facilitators from the Writing Centre led structured discussions to guide students in creating handouts that addressed key writing challenges—documents they wished they had during their early academic journey. This collaborative effort will culminate in a published resource, giving participants well-deserved recognition for their contributions.

Throughout the week, one-on-one consultations offered personalised guidance. Students received tailored feedback to refine their writing, from enhancing clarity and structure to tackling complex research methodologies. The CRB facilitator’s involvement added a unique interdisciplinary dimension, ensuring diverse perspectives and expertise.

The camp was not just about refining academic skills; it fostered an environment of openness and shared experiences. During the final feedback session, students presented their handouts and reflected on their week-long journey. The discussions revealed profound insights into the challenges of postgraduate life, including; mental health pressures, navigating supervisor feedback effectively, balancing academic demands with family responsibilities, and the need to secure postgraduate funding.

These candid conversations underscored the crucial role of support initiatives like the writing camp in addressing not just academic but holistic well-being.

“As the Higher Degrees Academic Support team, we reflect on a successful week with a dedicated group of students who have set a high standard for future participants in our writing camps,” shared Doret Kruger, Manager: Higher Degrees Academic Support. This inaugural camp laid a strong foundation, demonstrating.

Postgraduate students at the writing camp organised by the Higher Degrees Academic Support at the Sports Village in Potchefstroom

Students engaged in a group discussion led by writing centre Coordinator, Zander Janse van Rensburg from the Potchefstroom Campus.