Academic

Carbon tax and economic growth: navigating South Africa’s climate challenge

BELINDA BANTHAM — Fri, 16 May 2025 09:09:23 +0000

Carbon tax and economic growth: navigating South Africa’s climate challenge

BELINDA BANTHAM Fri, 05/16/2025 - 11:09

South Africa's ambitious efforts to curb carbon emissions while maintaining economic growth are facing new scrutiny as researchers explore the link between carbon tax, emissions and GDP growth.

Dr Victor Mofema, a lecturer in the subject group Economics at the North-West University (NWU) and a recent PhD graduate, believes increasing the country’s carbon tax gradually could further reduce emissions while supporting growth.

In a recent study he analysed nearly three decades of economic and environmental data to understand how these factors interact, and what it could mean for the country’s future.

The study, which covered data from 1993 to 2022, examined how carbon emissions and economic growth respond to carbon tax policies. "I wanted to understand not just the short-term impact of carbon tax, but its long-term implications for both the environment and economic growth," Dr Mofema explains.

Three models explore the impact of carbon tax

The research was divided into three models to capture different dimensions of the relationship. In the first model, findings showed that while GDP growth is linked to rising carbon emissions, carbon tax does contribute to reducing emissions, but only in the short term. "The immediate effect of carbon tax is clear; it reduces emissions. But over the long run, its impact becomes less significant," Dr Mofema noted.

The second model revealed a complex interplay: higher carbon tax, increased energy consumption and rising emissions were all associated with GDP growth. However, imports appeared to dampen economic expansion.

"If South Africa wants to grow its economy, it must increase carbon tax strategically while keeping emissions stable and boosting energy consumption," Dr Mofema said. "We also found that imports tend to pull GDP down, so managing trade balance is crucial."

The third model focused on the long-term dynamics, showing that carbon tax has a positive impact on GDP, while emissions and energy consumption negatively affect growth.

Dr Mofema suggested that addressing inflation and stabilising energy use could help manage carbon emissions and support economic expansion. "Reducing energy consumption and keeping inflation in check are key to balancing carbon tax impacts," he adds.

The study also identified a critical threshold for carbon tax in South Africa, indicating that the country has room to increase its tax rates without stalling economic growth.

"Our findings suggest that South Africa has not yet reached its carbon tax limit. Increasing it gradually could further reduce emissions while supporting growth," Dr Mofema concluded.

Dr Victor Mofema was recently conferred a PhD in Economics.

Rethinking education in the age of artificial intelligence

BELINDA BANTHAM — Fri, 16 May 2025 06:23:45 +0000

Rethinking education in the age of artificial intelligence BELINDA BANTHAM Fri, 05/16/2025 - 08:23

By Gofaone Motsamai

As artificial intelligence (AI) reshapes how knowledge is created, shared and verified, questions are being raised about data use and bias, and whether it could be replicating Western biases and global gender disparities.

As AI systems learn to learn, they also force institutions to reconsider their role in shaping future professionals. This is why the Faculty of Humanities at the North-West University (NWU) hosted a public lecture on 8 May 2025 focusing on AI and the future of humanities education in higher education institutions. The event at Mmabatho Palms Hotel was also streamed online.

Professor Hopeton S Dunn, a scholar in communications policy from the University of Botswana, delivered the lecture titled “AI, ethics and the challenge to higher education globally”. In his address, Prof Dunn outlined the social, economic and political implications of AI and its relevance to institutions in the Global South.

Is new technology replicating old biases?

He explained that AI systems are trained using data and raised questions about the sources of that data. “What data sources are the systems being trained on? Do they replicate the Western biases and global gender disparities that we have become familiar with?” he asked.

Prof Dunn warned that AI development could reinforce existing global inequalities. “AI puts us at what I have called the risk of a new colonialism,” he said. “There’s a risk that AI is already replicating global disparities and could generate a new round of dominance, neo-colonial dominance, and subject us to the control of big data.”

He also addressed the potential for AI to increase productivity in various sectors but cautioned about its impact on employment and the labour market. While citing a report estimating that AI could add up to $4.4 trillion to the global economy, he emphasised that regions such as Africa must not be excluded from this growth.

Checking facts is more important than ever

Calling for policy interventions, public education and regulation to manage the challenges associated with AI, Prof Dunn noted the importance of data verification in communication and media. “We are committed by ethical rules to provide the public with the truth… then we have to do data verification,” he said.

Discussing the challenges of facial recognition and deepfake technologies, linking them to identity, security and public trust, he referred to developments in the European Union. These include the Artificial Intelligence Act of 2023, which categorises AI applications by levels of risk and sets restrictions accordingly.

He urged the audience to adopt AI technologies with awareness and caution. “Let us adopt AI technologies to meet the opportunities of our time while enacting sensible guardrails for consumer protection, for data privacy, for cyber security and for the protection of humanity as a whole,” he concluded.

Professor Hopeton Dunn, a scholar from the University of Botswana, delivered a public lecture hosted by the faculty of Humanities

Geopolitics and conflict in the DRC come under the spotlight at ISS seminar

BELINDA BANTHAM — Wed, 14 May 2025 06:45:18 +0000

Geopolitics and conflict in the DRC come under the spotlight at ISS seminar

by Oscar Mosiane

BELINDA BANTHAM Wed, 05/14/2025 - 08:45

Armed conflict has been raging in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) since January 2025, raising many questions about peace, war and geopolitics. The North-West University’s (NWU’s) Centre for Geopolitical Security and Strategy and Afrocentric Governance of Public Affairs, in collaboration with the Institute for Security Studies (ISS), analysed the geopolitical and conflict dynamics unfolding in the DRC.

Speakers at the seminar, held at the ISS’s offices in Pretoria, discussed the factors underlying the conflict, unpacked some undermining economic, political, security and social factors and explored options for peace, stability, and security in the DRC.

Moderator Ottilia Maunganidze, head of special projects at ISS, steered the ship, outlining the geopolitical landscape and ongoing conflict in the DRC and the need for continental actors to contribute to lasting solutions for the people of DRC and the continent.

Prof Dumi Moyo, executive dean of the Faculty of Humanities at the NWU, during his keynote address, thanked the ISS for hosting this maiden public engagement with the NWU’s newly established Centre for Geopolitics, Security and Strategy.

Robust academic capabilities and policy-relevant expertise

“The NWU brings robust academic and analytical capabilities rooted in African geopolitical perspectives, while the ISS offers a decade of policy-relevant expertise, operational knowledge and access to a continent-wide and international network of security practitioners and policy makers,” Prof Moyo said. “Together, the two institutions offer a comprehensive platform for meaningful engagement on one of the most consequential geopolitical developments on the continent.”

Antonette Bruther, ISS director of operations and human resources at the ISS, also expressed appreciation for the partnership with the NWU, which has led to the establishment of the Postgraduate Diploma in Geopolitics, aimed at equipping law enforcement professionals and practitioners with tools to navigate today’s conflict security landscape.

“This partnership has taken a step forward with the establishment of the Centre for Geopolitics, Security and Strategy at the NWU, an initiative that ISS is proud to support and believes will become a cornerstone for research and policy engagements on the continent,” she said.

The panellists participating in the seminar included Dr Claude Kabemba, executive director of Southern Africa Resource Watch, Dr Michael Mugah, ISS researcher in Nairobi, and Brigadier-General Peter Sereko, operational expert in missions of the South African National Defence Force.

Since January 2025, the eastern DRC has witnessed a sharp escalation in violence, with the M23 rebel group capturing key cities such as Goma and Bukavu by February. These areas, rich in mineral resources, have become flashpoints in a conflict that has triggered a humanitarian crisis in the Great Lakes region.

Uncertainties abound as tensions remain

The timing of the seminar was opportune. The DRC stands at the centre of a rapidly evolving geopolitical landscape where armed conflict and resource governance issues intersect with regional and global security imperatives. The role of the M23 rebel group and subsequent regional military interventions have intensified the tensions between the DRC and Rwanda and also drawn in regional bodies such as the Southern African Development Community (SADC), the East African Committee, the European Union and the United States.

The seminar explored the interplay between national interests and regional rivalries that continue to challenge peace efforts. Experts discussed the root causes of the conflict and explored viable pathways toward sustainable peace.

Currently, a fragile ceasefire exists but concerns remain over whether it will hold and what roles neighbouring countries, including Rwanda and Uganda, will play in shaping the trajectory of the conflict.

The seminar provided a crucial platform for policymakers, researchers and civil society representatives to engage with the challenges of securing lasting peace in the eastern DRC, a region whose stability is vital for the entire Great Lakes area. As the conflicts continue, stakeholders who attended the first seminar have requested further discussions of this kind until the conflict is resolved.

Brand South Africa CEO engages NWU on marketing, investment and nation branding

BELINDA BANTHAM — Wed, 14 May 2025 06:41:34 +0000

Brand South Africa CEO engages NWU on marketing, investment and nation branding

by Mafumane Tlhapi

BELINDA BANTHAM Wed, 05/14/2025 - 08:41

Marketing is not about persuasion. It is about perception. This was the core message from Mr Neville Matjie, CEO of Brand South Africa and alumnus of the North-West University (NWU), during a guest lecture held for marketing students in an effort to give back to the university. The session was hosted by the Career Services and Alumni Relations department in collaboration with the School of Marketing.

Matjie engaged the participants virtually about the real-world dimensions of their field. He introduced attendees to strategic elements of marketing, investment promotion and nation branding in South Africa.

“Marketing is not the art of finding clever ways to dispose of what you make,” said Matjie. “It is the art of creating genuine customer value. Everything we do in marketing must focus on understanding and meeting customers’ needs.”

The lecture also focused on South Africa’s investment promotion strategies. Matjie outlined key processes involved in investment generation, including country targeting, scoping, opportunity identification and aftercare. He noted that aftercare plays a central role in retaining businesses and driving expansion.

“We do not just stop at attracting investors,” he said. “We must maintain those relationships to ensure long-term growth and sustainability.”

Attendees learned about sector-specific investment opportunities in tourism, energy and manufacturing, and how these are packaged to attract global investors. Matjie detailed how government support and regulatory frameworks influence investment attraction and outlined the importance of collaboration across sectors.

“The value proposition of South Africa lies in its location, the cost of doing business, and its people. Marketing these advantages requires structured messaging and consistent servicing,” Matjie explained.

He also addressed special economic zones, discussing branding, customer relationship management and infrastructure challenges. He emphasised that digital marketing and data use are essential in promoting these zones and attracting suitable investors.

Speaking on South Africa’s national brand, Matjie discussed the agency’s strategy to position the country as a credible, competitive and trusted investment destination.

“Brand South Africa’s mandate includes building confidence in the nation brand and addressing key issues that impact perception,” said Matjie. “Our reputation is a national asset, and managing it is a shared responsibility.”

Matjie closed the lecture by reinforcing the global importance of perception in nation branding and the role of marketing in shaping economic futures.

Mr Neville Matjie, CEO of Brand South Africa, delivering a guest lecture at the North-West University on marketing and investment promotion

Prof Linda du Plessis rebukes Dawie Roodt’s university closure comments

BELINDA BANTHAM — Tue, 13 May 2025 10:14:52 +0000

Prof Linda du Plessis rebukes Dawie Roodt’s university closure comments

by Bertie Jacobs

BELINDA BANTHAM Tue, 05/13/2025 - 12:14

South Africa has too many public universities, and most of them should be closed. Furthermore, only 10% of the population should pursue a university education, “while there is a big shortage at other skill levels”. These are some of the comments recently made by economist Dawie Roodt, who also labelled South Africa’s primary education sector as one of the worst in the world, arguing that the quality of state-owned universities has declined and that universities should be more selective when admitting students. He also proposes that South Africans should receive educational vouchers to spend at whichever institution they want.

This begs the question: Do South Africa’s 19 public universities and seven universities of technology still have a significant role to play in the country’s education sector, or does the future – as Roodt argues – increasingly lie in private universities?

According to Prof Linda du Plessis, vice-principal and deputy vice-chancellor for teaching and learning at the North-West University (NWU), Roodt’s statements fail to consider all the facts.

“Roodt’s argument oversimplifies a complex educational and socio-political landscape. South Africa produces high-quality graduates across numerous fields, and his sweeping statements fail to acknowledge the significant strides made in research, teaching, learning, and community engagement. Given a graduate unemployment rate below 10%, compared to a youth unemployment rate exceeding 40%, a degree remains a sound investment,” she says.

According to her, Roodt’s focus is almost exclusively on the shortcomings of a handful of public universities, without acknowledging the many achievements in various disciplines.

“These include globally recognised researchers and world-class programmes, substantial high-quality, widely cited research output, and critical contributions to public health, science, and national policy. His narrative is one-sided and overlooks the essential fields that underpin the country’s functioning, such as law, accountancy, engineering, nursing, social work, and teaching. Of particular concern is the ongoing underperformance of the Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) sector and the persistently low enrolment numbers. He barely addresses this or the fact that TVET students are part of the post-school education system and receive NSFAS funding.

Moreover, public universities are not merely educational institutions; they are engines of social mobility, redress, and transformation. Suggesting that only 10% of the population should attend university disregards the national imperative to expand access to higher education, as set out in the National Development Plan (NDP).”

She also notes that Roodt compares the performance of public and private institutions without providing empirical evidence or comparative data on student outcomes or employment rates.

“Most private universities in South Africa do not engage in significant research, offer limited postgraduate opportunities, and cater to a small segment of the population. They also often lack the research infrastructure necessary for impactful academic work. By contrast, public universities, despite their challenges, have made significant progress in establishing research networks, international collaborations, and strategic partnerships with national funding bodies such as the National Research Foundation (NRF) and the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI). The proposal to introduce vouchers lacks clarity on how they would make a meaningful difference. Students already have the freedom to choose their institution of study. Roodt overlooks critical issues such as planning, accommodation, and transport, which are integral to the student experience. The current NSFAS funding model is determined by government policy, not by public universities. One of its greatest benefits has been the promotion of more equitable access to education. Roodt’s argument does not address how a privatised system would avoid exacerbating existing inequalities. It might be more appropriate to explore alternatives, such as converting NSFAS to a partial loan scheme, with repayment linked to academic performance – an idea that could merit further economic analysis.

The suggestion to "level the playing field" between public and private universities assumes that they operate under similar mandates and constraints. They do not. Public universities have a constitutional mandate to serve the public good and advance social justice. These are roles that do not align with the profit-driven models typical of private institutions. Ultimately, Roodt’s assertions lack a solid evidentiary foundation. While the public university sector has areas requiring improvement, a blanket call to dismantle it in favour of private alternatives reflects a fundamental misunderstanding of the sector’s role in society and its broader impact,” Prof du Plessis concludes.

To return to the question of whether the country’s public universities still have a significant role to play in the country’s education sector, the answer seems to be an unequivocal yes.

Prof Linda du Plessis

The humanities are the soul of our societies says top African academic

BELINDA BANTHAM — Tue, 13 May 2025 08:23:24 +0000

The humanities are the soul of our societies says top African academic

by Phenyo Mokgothu

BELINDA BANTHAM Tue, 05/13/2025 - 10:23

While science and technology are important, these disciplines should not eclipse the need for moral reasoning, history and cultural understanding, said renowned scholar Prof Toyin Falola in a public lecture at the North-West University’s (NWU’s) Mahikeng Campus on 8 May 2025.

Emphasising the critical role of humanities education in shaping Africa's future, his lecture, titled “Humanities education for Africa's futures”, explored the growing marginalisation of humanities disciplines in favour of technology and science.

“The humanities are not just academic fields; they are the soul of our societies,” he said. “When we ignore them, we risk losing our collective memory and ethical foundations.”

Prof Falola pointed to the legacy of colonial education models that prioritised Western thought over African perspectives. “We must move beyond the dominance of European theories in our curricula. Our students should learn about African epistemologies alongside global theories to appreciate their own histories and values.”

Calling for a reimagining of humanities education that incorporates indigenous knowledge systems and oral traditions, he suggested that African universities should prioritise storytelling, philosophy and history rooted in African experiences. “It is not just about reclaiming our past; it is about equipping our future generations with the tools to think critically and ethically.”

Prof Falola argued that the skills gained from studying history, literature and philosophy are crucial for leadership, civic engagement and the cultural industries. “The creative sector is growing, and our stories, if told well, can shape global narratives.”

He urged African institutions to embrace a balanced educational approach. 'We cannot build sustainable societies on technology alone. We need thinkers, storytellers and moral philosophers to guide us,” Prof Falola concluded.

Renowned scholar Prof Toyin Falola delivered a public lecture at the NWU’s Mahikeng Campus.

African historian Prof Toyin Falola receives honorary doctorate from the NWU

BELINDA BANTHAM — Fri, 09 May 2025 15:06:02 +0000

African historian Prof Toyin Falola receives honorary doctorate from the NWU BELINDA BANTHAM Fri, 05/09/2025 - 17:06

By Gofaone Motsamai and Phenyo Mokgothu

One of the world’s most-cited African scholars, Professor Toyin Falola, has received an honorary doctorate from the North-West University (NWU).

The degree was conferred on 9 May 2025 during a graduation ceremony held at the NWU’s Mahikeng Campus. This recognition marks a significant milestone in the university’s relationship with the eminent historian, who delivered a public lecture recently humanities education for African futures.

Prof Falola, renowned for his extensive scholarship in African history of University of Texas at Austin, culture and decolonial studies, received the degree in recognition of his academic achievements, global influence and decades-long public engagement that has shaped African historical discourse across continents.

Delivering his acceptance speech, Prof Falola applauded NWU’s commitment to holistic education. “I wish to emphasise the value of knowledge beyond classroom walls. Numerous studies have shown that education transcends official instructions since values are first taught at home or in the community.”

He commended the NWU for integrating formal instruction with value-based education: “I feel fulfilled whenever I see an institution that passionately integrates these two elements because that is what education is truly about. Education liberates the mind from mental slavery.”

Standing out for social justice and decolonisation

Highlighting NWU’s contributions to curriculum transformation and African-centred scholarship, he said: “The North-West University distinguishes itself from its contemporaries through its commitment to social justice and the decolonisation of the curriculum. This approach emphasises equality and enables students to engage freely with diverse populations from Africa and beyond without fear.”

Prof Falola also praised the NWU’s reputation for research excellence and graduate impact, acknowledging its efforts to equip students for real-world challenges and celebrate African identity through education. He pointed to the university’s role in producing socially responsible, value-driven graduates who excel in fields ranging from politics and governance to economics, science, engineering, sports, arts and academia.

In 2023, Prof Falola donated 27 books to the NWU’s Mahikeng Campus library, 12 of which he either authored or co-authored. The volumes explore topics such as decolonisation, African politics, philosophy and historical methodology. That was also the year he delivered his public lecture on the campus, hosted by the Indigenous Language and Media in Africa research focus area.

His global influence includes advisory roles for institutions such as the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation, the African Union and the Economic Community of West African States, particularly on issues related to refugees, peacebuilding and cultural policy.

The NWU honorary doctorate adds to a long list of awards Prof Fabola has received, including the Lincoln Award, the Amistad Award and the Nigerian Diaspora Academic Prize.

For the NWU, the recognition is not only retrospective but forward-looking – part of a broader mission to honour scholarship that originates in Africa and speaks to the world.

Prof Toyin Falola with Prof Dumi Moyo

Academic excellence elevated at Optentia’s transformative writing retreat

BELINDA BANTHAM — Thu, 08 May 2025 13:18:21 +0000

Academic excellence elevated at Optentia’s transformative writing retreat

by Zenoyise John

BELINDA BANTHAM Thu, 05/08/2025 - 15:18

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.

Participants were immersed in a carefully curated programme that combined expert-led workshops, individual feedback sessions and AI-supported tools for writing and research. The retreat featured an impressive panel of multidisciplinary scholars, including Prof Ian Rothmann, Prof Andries Baart, Prof Vera Roos and Dr Bruno Coimbra, among others.

Topics covered ranged from AI-assisted literature reviews and qualitative data analysis to mixed-methods research design and writing for real-world impact. Evening sessions like the Campfire Conversations and Moonlight over the Vaal dinners provided relaxed opportunities for deeper connection and reflection.

Anjonet Jordaan, project manager at Optentia, describes the event as a landmark in fostering research excellence and collaboration within the academic community.

“The success of the Optentia Usiba Writing Retreat lies not just in the productivity of our researchers, but in the sense of community, inspiration and academic generosity that filled each day. It was deeply rewarding to witness researchers – from master's-degree students to seasoned professors – growing and connecting in such a meaningful way.”

Throughout the retreat, participants reported significant progress on their research proposals, thesis chapters and journal manuscripts. Equally important, they left with a renewed sense of motivation and a deeper understanding of how to conduct and disseminate research that matters – to communities, industries and policymakers alike.

With structured coaching, tailored sessions and peer-to-peer learning, the retreat exemplified Optentia’s mission to develop pathways to humans flourishing through research.

Anjonet says feedback from attendees is abundant, revealing a unanimous sentiment that the Usiba Retreat has established a new benchmark for academic writing retreats in South Africa.

“There are potential plans to maintain this momentum with upcoming events,” she says.

Presenters and PhD students shared their experiences in this video:

The Optentia Usiba Writing Retreat was a great success.

Faculty of Humanities hosts first Africa International Teaching Week

BELINDA BANTHAM — Thu, 08 May 2025 13:15:33 +0000

Faculty of Humanities hosts first Africa International Teaching Week

by Angeline Marokoane

BELINDA BANTHAM Thu, 05/08/2025 - 15:15

The Faculty of Humanities of the North-West University (NWU) is excited to host its inaugural Africa International Teaching Week (AITW) from 31 August to 5 September 2025 across its Vanderbijlpark, Potchefstroom and Mahikeng campuses.

This prestigious event invites 20 higher education practitioners based outside South Africa to participate in a vibrant academic and cultural exchange centred on the theme “The role of the humanities in social justice”.

The AITW 2025 offers an exceptional opportunity for international academics to engage with South African academics and students, share innovative teaching practices and explore collaborative possibilities. Participants will deliver guest lectures on topics relating to social justice in the humanities and present these sessions across all three NWU campuses. More information on the subject areas can be found here.

They will also promote their home institutions through an international exhibition, creating space for networking and future partnerships.

In addition to academic engagement, the programme includes a carefully curated cultural itinerary, allowing participants to experience the richness of South African heritage. Highlights include a river cruise, a visit to Lesedi Cultural Village, a safari experience, and opportunities to enjoy local cuisine and connect with diverse university communities.

The registration fee is €150 and includes accommodation, most meals and all in-country transport during the programme. Applicants are responsible for their international travel and airport transfers. The application deadline is 13 June 2025, and only approved participants will receive further instructions, including payment details and the final programme.

The NWU encourages academics with a passion for social justice and cross-cultural dialogue to apply and be part of this dynamic teaching week. For more information or to submit your application, visit https://www.nwu.ac.za/aitw or email HumanitiesTW@nwu.ac.za.

Join us in shaping global conversations on the humanities and social justice in the heart of South Africa.

Public lecture to share insights on AI, ethics, and the future of humanities education

BELINDA BANTHAM — Fri, 02 May 2025 10:48:57 +0000

Public lecture to share insights on AI, ethics, and the future of humanities education

by Phenyo Mokgothu

BELINDA BANTHAM Fri, 05/02/2025 - 12:48

The Faculty of Humanities at the North-West University (NWU) will host a public lecture on 8 May 2025, exploring the role of artificial intelligence (AI) and the future of humanities education in higher education institutions.

The event, to be held at the Mmabatho Palms Hotel and streamed online, will also mark the official launch of the university’s new Centre for Teaching Excellence.

Two internationally recognised scholars will headline the lecture. Prof Hopeton S. Dunn, a communications policy expert at the University of Botswana, will speak on “AI, ethics and the challenge to higher education globally”. His academic work focuses on digital inclusion, emerging media and telecommunications policy. Prof Dunn has previously chaired Jamaica’s Broadcasting Commission and served as secretary general of the International Association for Media and Communication Research.

The second speaker, Prof Toyin Falola, will present on “Humanities education for African futures: Reimagining scholarship, creativity and knowledge production in a changing world”. Prof Falola is one of Africa’s most cited historians and has held leadership roles in multiple academic associations over a five-decade career. His research and mentorship have influenced the direction of African scholarship internationally.

Prof Mpho Chaka, deputy dean for teaching and learning in the Faculty of Humanities, says the lecture reflects the faculty’s commitment to academic dialogue on current global and regional developments.

“We are pleased to bring together two highly respected scholars whose work intersects with some of the most pressing debates in higher education,” says Prof Chaka. “This public lecture not only creates space for academic engagement but also affirms the university’s investment in future-focused teaching and research.”

The event is scheduled to begin at 15:00 in the Leopard Room of the Mmabatho Palms Hotel. It will also be accessible via Microsoft Teams and livestreamed on YouTube.

For more information, contact Granny Mogotsi at 018 389 2320 or granny.mogotsi@nwu.ac.za.

Prof Hopeton S. Dunn

Prof Toyin Falola