Academic

Uninvited winter guests: why green stinkbugs are taking over your home

BELINDA BANTHAM — Thu, 22 May 2025 08:36:02 +0000

Uninvited winter guests: why green stinkbugs are taking over your home BELINDA BANTHAM Thu, 05/22/2025 - 10:36

By Gofaone Motsamai

The unusual presence of green stinkbugs in offices, homes and public buildings is no cause for concern, according to Professor Johnnie van den Berg from the Unit for Environmental Sciences and Management at North-West University (NWU).

“There have been surges in the numbers of many pest and non-pest insects over the last two to three months. This is ascribed to the good rains that were experienced over most of the region,” says Prof van den Berg. He explains that when rainfall is abundant, the host plants of herbivorous insects become more widespread, increasing their chances of survival into adulthood.

Stinkbugs, including the Nezara viridula species, commonly known as the southern green stinkbug, feed on a wide variety of plants. This, together with the lush environments found after good rains, boosts their ability to reproduce and survive. While their sudden appearance indoors may be unsettling, Prof van den Berg says they pose no direct or indirect health risks to humans.

“It is only when you aggravate them or touch them that they may emit a bad odour, which is aimed at scaring off predators. The incidence of humans showing allergic reactions to such emitted chemicals is believed to be extremely low,” he says.

Prof van den Berg adds that although stinkbugs can affect crops such as soybeans and vegetables, their presence in residential or commercial buildings is mostly harmless. As winter temperatures begin to set in, these bugs are expected to disappear naturally.

“It is relatively common for certain insects like Nezara viridula to start aggregating during the colder months of the year. Ladybirds are also known to do this. These bugs move to more favourable environments, such as homes, where it is warmer and there is no frost.”

No insecticide application is necessary, as these aggregations are temporary and unlikely to lead to reinfestation. “The best thing to do is to sweep them up or off the roof, or out of the corners, and throw them outside,” advises Prof van den Berg

Professor Johnnie van den Berg

New discovery could help crops survive harsh climates

BELINDA BANTHAM — Wed, 21 May 2025 09:35:48 +0000

New discovery could help crops survive harsh climates

by Phenyo Mokgothu

BELINDA BANTHAM Wed, 05/21/2025 - 11:35

Unpredictable rainfall and rising temperatures are threatening crop production across Southern Africa. A groundbreaking discovery by a North-West University (NWU) researcher could pave the way for stronger, more resilient crops capable of withstanding harsh weather and environmental stress.

Dr Moichwanetse Tsholofelo, who recently earned her PhD in biology, led the study which identified a unique plant protein that boosts stress resistance and helps plants maintain vital internal balance during extreme conditions.

Her research focused on molecules that help plants manage water, nutrients and stress signals. "We are looking at how plants communicate internally to survive under stress. Understanding these signals means we can potentially enhance their natural defences," Dr Tsholofelo says.

The research zeroed in on a protein called AtHNOX, found in Arabidopsis thaliana (mouse-eared cress), a widely studied plant species known for its genetic simplicity. Dr Tsholofelo demonstrated that this protein could produce two critical molecules, cAMP and cGMP, that are essential for helping plants cope with environmental challenges. These molecules function as messengers that regulate various processes, including water uptake, nutrient transport and stress response.

"For the first time, we have identified a plant protein that can generate both of these molecules. This dual function opens up new possibilities for crop improvement," she explains.

Specifically, AtHNOX contains two enzymes, adenylate cyclase (AC) and guanylate cyclase (GC), that give it the unique capability to enhance how plants manage stress, particularly under conditions such as drought or soil salinity.

She also tested the protein's ability to protect against salt and oxidative stress in prokaryotic expression system. The results suggest that AtHNOX could provide similar protective benefits in plants, making it a promising target for agricultural innovations aimed at climate resilience. The protective AtHNOX benefits indicated are stress responses such as drought and oxidative stress tolerance

Looking ahead, Dr Tsholofelo believes this discovery could inform new agricultural strategies to protect crops against increasingly unpredictable weather patterns. "We now have a molecular blueprint that could help plants survive environmental shocks. This is just the beginning.”

About the researcher

Dr Moichwanetse Tsholofelo was born in Borakalalo village in the North West Province and completed her schooling in Mahikeng. She holds a BSc degree in biology and chemistry and an MSc and PhD in biology from the NWU. Her research focuses on plant biochemistry and molecular biology, with a particular interest in enhancing crop resilience to climate stress.

Recent PhD graduate Dr Tsholofelo Moichwanetse’s discovery could pave the way for stronger, more resilient crops capable of withstanding harsh weather and environmental stress

Dr Tshepo Alex Malapane named the Most Influential Man in South Africa 2025 at prestigious Gold Reef City ceremony

BELINDA BANTHAM — Tue, 20 May 2025 07:25:42 +0000

Dr Tshepo Alex Malapane named the Most Influential Man in South Africa 2025 at prestigious Gold Reef City ceremony BELINDA BANTHAM Tue, 05/20/2025 - 09:25

Dr Tshepo Alex Malapane, an alumnus of the NWU, was honoured with the Most Influential Man in South Africa 2025 award in a powerful moment of national pride and reflection. This prestigious recognition was part of the 2025 Influential Men & Artes Awards, a landmark event celebrating individuals who have made significant contributions to South African society. The awards ceremony, held at Gold Reef City on 27 April 2025, was organised and hosted by Big M Productions.

Dr Malapane's award highlights a career of courage and clarity of thought, and a deep commitment to national progress. Widely regarded as a transformative thought leader and strategist, he has become a commanding voice of reason on South Africa’s macroeconomic challenges, development priorities and institutional reform. In a country grappling with structural imbalances, rising unemployment and constrained public confidence, his insights have remained anchored in empirical data, strategic foresight and principled leadership.

With over a decade of influence across sectors, Dr Malapane has supported public and private entities in enterprise development, research commercialisation, institutional strategy and inclusive innovation. His work consistently reflects understanding of the interconnectedness between economic justice, transformation and social equity.

One of the hallmarks of Dr Malapane’s influence is his ability to unpack complex macroeconomic issues – from fiscal constraints and industrial productivity to regional development and public-private collaboration – with a level of clarity that resonates not just with academics and policymakers but also with community leaders and business innovators. His ability to communicate complex truths while offering constructive, implementable solutions has made him a trusted contributor in national dialogues, media platforms and academic forums.

Dr Malapane is also widely recognised for championing Africa-centred developmental economics. He calls for context-driven policy design, reduced dependency on external frameworks and stronger regional economic integration. His work continues to shape how institutions think about sustainability, innovation and the role of leadership in unlocking Africa’s potential.

Colleagues, scholars and civic leaders have lauded Dr Malapane as a “strategic nation-builder”, a torchbearer of hope who combines intellectual depth with practical foresight. His influence transcends titles – it lies in his rare ability to bridge vision and action and inspire a generation to lead with integrity, purpose and clarity.

Receiving the Most Influential Man in South Africa 2025 award is more than a personal honour, it is a reaffirmation of the kind of leadership South Africa urgently needs. As the country navigates global shifts and domestic transformation, the voice and leadership of Dr Tshepo Alex Malapane remain both timely and essential.

Dr Tshepo Alex Malapane was honoured with the Most Influential Man in South Africa 2025 award.

Prof Toyin Falola donates second set of books to NWU Mahikeng library

BELINDA BANTHAM — Tue, 20 May 2025 07:00:05 +0000

Prof Toyin Falola donates second set of books to NWU Mahikeng library BELINDA BANTHAM Tue, 05/20/2025 - 09:00

By Gofaone Motsamai

Celebrated historian and scholar Prof Toyin Falola has once again contributed to the academic growth of North-West University (NWU), encouraging students to view the 25 books he has donated to the Mahikeng campus library as a compass.

The donation was made shortly after he received an honorary doctorate from the institution on 9 May 2025.This marks his second donation to the library, in 2023 he handed over 27 books when he visited the campus to deliver a public lecture for the Indigenous Language Media in Africa (ILMA) research area.

Delivering a compelling message, Prof Falola emphasised the importance of preserving knowledge for future generations. “People see libraries, digital and archival, as fundamental knowledge centres where they can retrieve information stored by sages and intellectuals,” he said. “To contribute books to the NWU library is an indication of our intention to make the people consolidate the existing knowledge in their environment with ones that would also reshape their thinking, refine their mindset and reposition them.”

He added that he hopes students will gain a deeper understanding of history and identity through the books. “The history of their forebears condensed in the books provides the necessary compass with which they would navigate their existence.”

NWU library director of information and learning services, Dr Sabelo Chizwina, welcomed the donation, describing it as “a generous book donation that will significantly enrich the North-West University (NWU) library’s academic collection, particularly in the fields of African history, politics, culture and interdisciplinary studies.”

Prof Falola’s generous donation will afford students an opportunity to engage with works that were not part of the collection and will strengthen the collection on African studies. “The donation facilitates original insights, particularly in African-centric research, aligning with NWU’s strategic goals. The books will serve as vital references for theses, dissertations and coursework,” he said.

The collection is now available for use by students and staff at the NWU Mahikeng campus library.

25 donated books by Prof Toyin Falola

Chief whip of the North-West Legislature earns her master’s in communication

BELINDA BANTHAM — Mon, 19 May 2025 14:14:44 +0000

Chief whip of the North-West Legislature earns her master’s in communication

by Oscar Mosiane

BELINDA BANTHAM Mon, 05/19/2025 - 16:14

The North-West University (NWU) has once again shown it is the knowledge hub of choice in the province. The latest high-profile graduate is the North West Legislature’s chief whip, Motlalepue Ziphorah Rosho, who received her master’s degree in communication at the recent graduation ceremony held at the Mahikeng Campus’s Great Hall. A former member of the Executive Committee for Finance in the province, Motlalepue was also a spokesperson for the North West Department of Agriculture. She was also media organiser for the North West ANC Department of Information and Publicity for the 1994 democratic elections.

Her dissertation is titled “Examining stakeholder perception participatory development communication study on the establishment of JB Marks Local Municipality”.

The findings of her study have reinforced the role and importance of stakeholder perception and communication in development. Kenny Morolong, Deputy Minister in the Presidency, was the chief whip’s guest at the graduation, as well as part of the entourage from the North West Legislature.

Motlalepue also holds a BAHons degree in communication, as well as a postgraduate diploma in public policy and African studies.

She has held several key positions in the provincial government and legislature, including Deputy Speaker of the North West Legislature, MEC for Economic Development, Environment, Conservation and Tourism, MEC for Local Government and Human Settlements and, recently, MEC for Finance.

The North West Legislature’s chief whip, Motlalepue Ziphorah Rosho, recently received her master’s degree in communication. From left are Kenny Morolong, deputy minister in the Presidency, Prof Sonia Swanepoel, deputy vice-chancellor for community engagement and Mahikeng Campus operations, and Motlalepule.

Jiu-Jitsu champion bags PhD

BELINDA BANTHAM — Mon, 19 May 2025 06:55:21 +0000

Jiu-Jitsu champion bags PhD

by Phenyo Mokgothu

BELINDA BANTHAM Mon, 05/19/2025 - 08:55

Dr Elvis Moyo has fought his way to victory on the mats – and now he's done the same in the classroom. The South African Jiu-Jitsu champion has earned a PhD in applied radiation sciences from North-West University (NWU).

Dr Moyo received his doctorate during a graduation ceremony at the NWU's Mahikeng Campus on 9 May 2025.

His immersion in martial arts began at the age of five and grew after reading about Moses Radebe, a South African champion and NWU alumnus who competed in World Jiu-Jitsu Championship held in Brazil. "After I read an article about Moses Radebe, I wanted to learn more about the sport," says Dr Moyo.

His dedication paid off, earning him a place in the national team after winning a gold medal at the South African National Championships in 2018. The following year he secured two gold medals at the 2019 World Jiu-Jitsu Championships in South Africa, where he was named the best fighter.

In 2023, he represented South Africa and the NWU at the Morganti Jiu-Jitsu World Championships in Recife, Brazil, where he took home a bronze medal in the stand-up fighting category. He narrowly missed a podium finish in the grappling category, placing fourth.

Dr Moyo’s academic ethos displays the same level of discipline and attention to detail as he shows in sport. His PhD research focused on analysing uranium ore samples from South African mines using advanced techniques such as laser-induced breakdown spectroscopy (LIBS), x-ray diffraction (XRD), and inductively coupled plasma mass spectroscopy (ICP-MS).

This work identified the unique chemical signatures of uranium ores, contributing to nuclear forensics and security.

Reflecting on his life experiences, Dr Moyo says that Jiu-Jitsu not only shaped his competitive spirit but also taught him resilience. "Jiu-Jitsu boosts your self-confidence and teaches you self-defence techniques, something everyone can benefit from."

With his PhD and continued success in Jiu-Jitsu, he is demonstrating that there are no limits to excellence. Sport and science go well together.

South African Jiu-Jitsu champion Dr Elvis Moyo recently earned a PhD in applied radiation sciences from the NWU.

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

by Phenyo Mokgothu

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