Institutional News

Academic documents the indigenous names of frogs and reptiles

Naming 136 frog species and 407 reptile species in nine South African cultures has been the focus of Fortunate Mafeta Phaka, senior postdoctoral researcher of herptile-human interactions at the North-West University (NWU). His project has produced the first comprehensive analysis of indigenous naming and classification of these species.

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Minority MPC view was the better judgement call

As was widely expected, the Monetary Policy Committee (MPC) of the South African Reserve Bank (SARB) decided (by a 4 to 2 vote) on 18 September to again pause its interest rate easing cycle for now.

In commenting on this decision, Prof Raymond Parsons, economist from the North-West University (NWU) Business School, says the MPC saw the risks around the inflation outlook as being balanced, and inflation as now being contained.

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The emotional welfare of South African teachers: a crisis that cannot be ignored

At a time when teachers are so often regarded as the unsung heroes of society, growing attention is being paid to the emotional burden they carry on a daily basis. The question is no longer whether teachers are under pressure, but rather how long they can withstand it without severe consequences for their own well-being and for the future of South Africa’s children. Dr Marelize Vergottini, senior lecturer in Social Work at the North-West University (NWU), cautions that the emotional well-being of our teachers is in a state of crisis – one that can no longer be ignored.

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Faculty of Health Sciences teaching team honoured with national award

The Faculty of Health Sciences at the North-West University (NWU) is celebrating a major achievement after its Understanding the World of Health teaching team was named one of the winners of the 2025 National University Teaching Award (NUTA).

They received the NUTA award in category 3: A Collaboration of Academics who have shown innovation in teaching and learning.

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Buying time on the cosmic clock: South Africa’s nexus challenge

Exaggeration is so often used as a tool for disinformation and to instil fear, but it is fair to say that never has the need to understand how our critical resources are interlinked been so important for the current and future welfare of our planet.

There is a nexus between energy, water and the environment, and here South Africa, with its unique challenges, stands at a crossroads. The country is grappling with a complex web of energy shortfalls, water scarcity and environmental pressures. And South Africa is not alone.

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NWU expert reflects on World Patient Safety Day

Globally, World Patient Safety Day (WPSD) is celebrated on 17 September to raise awareness on healthcare safety and quality. This initiative by the World Health Organisation (WHO) inspires healthcare professionals to show their commitment to patient safety.

The theme for 2025 is “Safe care for every newborn and every child”, emphasising that each child has the right to safe and quality care from birth.

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Captain Sibisi ready to lead NWU Eagles into semifinal battle

Aphelele Wandile Sibisi’s football journey began on the streets of Mandeni in KwaZulu-Natal, where he spent hours kicking a ball around with friends. Today, the 22-year-old defender leads the North-West University (NWU) Eagles into a decisive moment in the Varsity Football tournament.

With one round-robin match left on Thursday, 18 September, the Eagles are just a single point away from securing a semifinal spot.

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Partnership aims to boost financial literacy among students

The North-West University (NWU) is actively reinforcing its dedication to student success by recently partnering with Blackbullion, a digital platform designed to build financial literacy. This partnership desires to give students the knowledge and skills they need to manage their money wisely during their time at the NWU and beyond.

“This partnership with Blackbullion contributes to student well-being, which is vital for academic achievement,” said Rassie Louw, coordinator at the NWU Digital Academy.

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