Newsroom - Mafikeng Campus

How global financial cycles shape South Africa’s economy

By Tiyiselani Precious Miyambu

Global financial conditions have a significant effect on the stability of the South African economy, according to a recent study by two researchers from the North-West University (NWU).

In their study on the influence of global financial cycles on South Africa’s financial cycle, Prof Precious Mncayi Makhanya and Khwazi Magubane from the School of Economic Sciences on the NWU’s Vanderbijlpark campus, examined the impact of global capital flows, asset prices and investor risk sentiment.

Submitted on Tue, 02/11/2025 - 08:36

Expert unpacks the hidden costs of rising electricity tariffs

By: Gofaone Motsamai

The recent approval by the National Energy Regulator of South Africa (NERSA) of a 12,7% electricity tariff increase for the 2025/26 financial year has raised serious concerns about its implications for household budgets, business operations and socio-political stability.

Mpho Lenoke, an economics lecturer at the Mahikeng Campus of the North-West University (NWU), provides expert insights into how this significant rise will impact various aspects of South African life.

Submitted on Fri, 02/07/2025 - 12:25

Trump’s pause on foreign aid upsets global health programmes

United States President Donald Trump’s pause in his country’s foreign aid is being felt on the campuses of the North-West University (NWU).

The Health Care Centre and HIV/Aids Office on the NWU’s Mahikeng Campus have received notification from Shout-it-Now, the non-governmental organisation providing youth-centred sexual reproductive health services and support, of the suspension of all their services, posing a challenge for students and employees alike.

Submitted on Fri, 02/07/2025 - 11:11

Study examines herbicide in South Africa’s environment

By Tiyiselani Precious Miyambu

Researchers from the North-West University’s (NWU’s) Unit of Environmental Sciences and Management conducted a study on the presence of a widely used herbicide – glyphosate – and its byproduct, AMPA, in South Africa’s water, soil and sediment.

Glyphosate, a key ingredient in many weed-control products, is essential in modern agriculture, particularly in the production of crops like maize and soybeans.

Submitted on Fri, 02/07/2025 - 08:24

Bridging language gaps on African Radio

By: Gofaone Motsamai

The rich linguistic diversity in Africa has always posed challenges and opportunities for the media, particularly for radio. A new book, Reconceptualising Multilingualism on African Radio, seeks to redefine multilingualism on African radio broadcasting by proffering epistemological ways to solve the African language problem.

Submitted on Fri, 02/07/2025 - 08:18

Construction commences on Mahikeng teaching facilities

The North-West University’s (NWU’s) Mahikeng Campus is increasing its teaching spaces by constructing new laboratories and lecture halls this year to address the growing needs of students and staff.

The construction of geography and life sciences laboratory spaces under the Faculty of Education began on 15 January. These facilities are located in the central parking area of the A4, A3, A9 and A10 buildings. New lecture halls are also being constructed behind the nursing building.

Submitted on Tue, 01/28/2025 - 10:48

Study reveals power of Setswana in strengthening brand connection

By Gofaone Motsamai

A study by North-West University (NWU) PhD student Olanrewaju Ogundeyi has provided insightful findings on the use of indigenous languages in radio advertising, highlighting the significant impact of Setswana on brand engagement.

The study examines how MTN subscribers in Mahikeng perceive Setswana-language commercials, revealing how local language marketing resonates deeply within communities in South Africa.

Submitted on Tue, 01/28/2025 - 08:49

NWU student represents South Africa in first Kho Kho World Cup

North-West University (NWU) nursing student Bonolo Precious Mogari and her teammates reached the semi-finals and secured a bronze medal for South Africa in the Kho Kho World Cup 2025 in India.

"It was an incredible experience to represent South Africa on such a global stage," says Bonolo. "I have been playing Kho Kho since I was 12 years old, and being part of the inaugural World Cup is a moment I will always cherish."

Submitted on Tue, 01/28/2025 - 08:40