The Optentia Usiba Writing Retreat 2025, held recently at the tranquil Khaya iBhubesi Conference Centre in Parys, brought together over 76 researchers, doctoral candidates and academic staff from across South Africa and beyond for four days of transformative learning, writing and scholarly connection.

Hosted by the Optentia research unit of the North-West University (NWU), the retreat created a space for structured research progress, intellectual exchange and personal rejuvenation, set against the backdrop of the Vaal River’s peaceful landscape.

The Vanderbijlpark Campus of the North-West University (NWU) played host to a dynamic Alumni Business Breakfast on Thursday, 11 April, at the scenic Big Lapa venue.

This networking event brought together alumni, industry leaders and NWU academics for a morning of insightful dialogue centred on tourism, business development and regional growth opportunities.

In a dynamic step towards bridging the gap between academic learning and real-world industry practice, the Faculty of Economic and Management Sciences at the Vanderbijlpark Campus of the North-West University (NWU) recently hosted an enriching guest lecture as part of the Operations Management (BMAN 213) module.

Aspiring entrepreneurs from the Vanderbijlpark Campus of the North-West University (NWU), alongside members of the local community, recently gathered for an enlightening masterclass led by successful entrepreneur and author Willem Gous.

The event focused on equipping participants with the knowledge, tools and mindset required to successfully launch and manage side businesses.

The North-West University’s (NWU’s) School of Industrial Psychology and Human Resource Management (IPHRM) recently hosted a pivotal work readiness workshop for its honours and master’s students.

This initiative brought together industry experts to share valuable insights on graduate employability, industry expectations, and effective preparation for the workforce.

In a powerful showcase of unity and community engagement, the North-West university (NWU) proudly participated in Rocking the Vaal 2025, a lively, cultural and charitable event held at Emerald Casino Tsogo Sun on Saturday, 29 March.

The event, organised by the Golden Triangle Chamber of Commerce (GTCOC) in collaboration with Emerald Casino Tsogo Sun and the Rotary Club of Vanderbijlpark, drew an enthusiastic crowd of more than 7 500 people and served as a testament to the Vaal community's unwavering resilience and togetherness.

The North-West University’s (NWU’s) Vanderbijlpark Campus has signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) with the Gauteng Department of Community Safety (GDCS) to empower communities and promote social justice, focusing on gender-based violence (GBV).

In a moment that left both her and her colleagues in awe, Suanne de Bruyn, a North-West University (NWU) alumnus and dedicated social worker at Lerato Child and Youth Care Centre (CYCC), was recently honoured with the esteemed Hope Bearer Award. This award celebrates her tireless commitment to improving the lives of children and families, especially those dealing with trauma and adversity.

The landscape of education is transforming at an unprecedented pace, driven by the rapid advancement of artificial intelligence (AI). This year’s iTLT Digital Futures Symposium, themed “Accelerating education through AI: Collaborative innovation for the future”, brought together leading experts from around the world to explore the ways AI is reshaping teaching and learning.

The North-West University’s (NWU’s) Vanderbijlpark Campus has ushered in a thrilling new chapter for its campus radio station, River FM.

Recently, the station underwent an impressive renovation, transforming it into one of the most advanced student-run media outlets in the region. With cutting-edge equipment now at its core, River FM is not just a radio station; it’s a launchpad for students to shine in the competitive world of broadcasting.