Newsroom - Potchefstroom Campus

Use of African plants and indigenous knowledge in managing diabetes

Research from the North-West University (NWU) and partner institutions has highlighted the role of African plants and indigenous knowledge in managing diabetes mellitus, a chronic and potentially fatal metabolic disorder affecting millions globally. 

The study, published in the journal Diabetology, explains how traditional practices provide an alternative to conventional medications used to treat diabetes.

Submitted on Thu, 11/07/2024 - 14:50

Goal! A new ‘vision’ for young female netball players

A sports vision programme can significantly improve visual and motor skills in young netball players. This is according to the research findings of Prof Dané Coetzee from the School of Biokinetics, Recreation and Sport Science at the North-West University (NWU) and her research partner Dr Elna van der Merwe.

Their research article, titled “An exploratory investigation of the effect of a sports vision programme on Grade 4 and 5 female netball players’ visual skills”, was published in the International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health.

Submitted on Thu, 11/07/2024 - 14:36

Gamification boosts loyalty in South African fashion retail

South Africa’s fashion retail industry is witnessing a shift as gamification emerges as a potent tool for improving customer loyalty, retention and brand recall.

In an increasingly competitive digital environment, retailers are turning to gamified experiences to engage customers. A recent study led by Prof Roland Goldberg from the Faculty of Economic and Management Sciences at the North-West University (NWU), published in the Malaysian E-Commerce Journal, explored the potential of gamification to transform consumer behaviour within the South African market.

Submitted on Thu, 11/07/2024 - 14:31

Art industry summit shares timeless insights beyond the canvas

The History of Art subject group, which is located in the School of Communication, held its inaugural industry summit on Tuesday, 22 October on the Potchefstroom Campus of the North-West University (NWU), bringing industry experts to our students.

Students from the History of Art subject group attended the event and gained first-hand knowledge of the work and daily lives of practitioners in the industry. Members of the BKhz Gallery shared their professional journeys and how they had crafted different careers in the industry.

Submitted on Thu, 11/07/2024 - 14:28

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.

Submitted on Mon, 10/28/2024 - 14:19

First Community Engagement Symposium highlights socially conscious citizenship

The Faculty of Humanities at the NWU recently hosted its first-ever Community Engagement Symposium, a milestone for its staff and students. Held over two days in Potchefstroom, the event was filled with dynamic presentations and lively discussions.

“This is an important event for our faculty and signals an exciting step forward in how we think about, approach and implement community engagement in our academic work," said Prof Herculene Kotzé, deputy dean for community engagement, stakeholder relations and business development, in her welcoming address.

Submitted on Wed, 10/09/2024 - 11:05

Research examines the need for regional policy in the Southern African Development Community

Creating and executing supranational regional policies is a critical first step in preparing regions to become core players on the global stage. Such policies seek to modernise and restructure a region’s foundations, promote sustainable development across borders and address economic and social inequalities.

Submitted on Wed, 10/09/2024 - 08:43

In lean times, more food can be produced with fewer resources

Agriculture is at the forefront of ensuring food security and researchers at the North-West University (NWU) are constantly looking for innovative and more effective ways to enhance this crucial sector.

Associate professor Rojanette Coetzee from the School of Industrial Engineering is focusing on “lean agriculture” to reduce waste and improve the efficiency of agri-systems.

“The lean agriculture approach is adapted from the manufacturing industry, where it is used to reduce waste, improve efficiency and do more with less,” says Prof Coetzee.

Submitted on Wed, 10/09/2024 - 08:14

NWU prepares for semi-final clash against UJ in Varsity Netball

The North-West University (NWU) netball team is gearing up for a highly anticipated semi-final showdown against the University of Johannesburg (UJ) in the Varsity Netball tournament.

The two teams previously faced off in round 5, where UJ secured a victory. Now, the NWU is determined to turn the tables and secure a spot in the final.

Reflecting on the upcoming match, head coach Elsunet du Plessis shares insights on the team’s preparations. After losing to UJ earlier in the season, Elsunet and her squad have analysed their round 5 performance closely.

Submitted on Thu, 09/26/2024 - 09:16