Community Engagement

MoU to bolster the public sector

MARELIZE SANTANA — Mon, 22 Jul 2024 08:46:22 +0000

MoU to bolster the public sector

MARELIZE SANTANA Mon, 07/22/2024 - 10:46

The North-West University (NWU) and the Public Service Commission (PSC) signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on Tuesday, 16 July to formalise and strengthen the relationship between the parties.

The MoU, which will remain in force for a period of five years, seeks to bring together the NWU and PSC to collaborate in areas of mutual interest such as the promotion of thought leadership, the production of relevant publications and community engagement initiatives. Other areas include collaborative research, capacity building and skills development - including internships and work-integrated learning.

In addition, the MoU serves as a beacon of the NWU’s commitment to addressing societal challenges and enhancing communities.

“It is such a pleasure to return to this great institution,” said Prof Somadoda Fikeni, chairperson of the PSC. “The signing of the MoU is a significant moment for the PSC, and it bodes well for our repositioning. Of importance is that the MoU will allow the commission, as a knowledge-based organisation, to collaborate with the University on areas of mutual interest. It is through this partnership that I hope that, through this partnership, we will be able to create not only career public servants, but also committed individuals who are people centered and service oriented.”

Echoing his sentiments, Prof Bismark Tyobeka, the principal and vice-chancellor of the NWU, emphasised the importance of professionalism in the public sector.

“Universities are a microcosm of society, and we are dedicated to collaborating with all spheres of government to work towards building a capable state, as outlined in the National Development Plan. Through various initiatives and programmes, we are already working towards addressing challenges faced by government and its departments. We eagerly anticipate the continuation of this important work, confident that it will contribute to the improvement of society," said Prof Tyobeka.

The PSC’s mandate relates to monitoring, evaluating and making recommendations regarding the organisation, administration, personnel procedures and practices of the public service to ensure efficient, economic and effective performance. This aligns closely with the NWU’s key priorities, which emphasises the commitment to supporting and partnering with all spheres of government.

Prof Jeffrey Mphahlele, deputy vice-chancellor for research and innovation, , reaffirmed the NWU’s commitment to collaborate with the PSC. He said universities have a significant role to play in the professionalisation of public service by providing relevant curricula that mould students into responsible and accountable professionals that serve society with integrity when they enter the workforce.

“At the NWU, we are cognisant that qualifications alone do not develop a fully rounded graduate. Society has a crucial role to instilling professional ethics through role models at various levels, both in the public and private sector. The onus is on selecting the relevant positive role model(s) that resonates with your values and principles.”

Prof Mandla Makhanya, caretaker commissioner for the Northwest province, added that the cooperation between the parties will allow them to expand into local government and state-owned entities.

Prof Bismark Tyobeka and Prof Somadoda Fikeni, chairperson of the PSC, signing the MoU.

Prof Mandla Makhanya delivers his concluding remarks.

Mr Clement Manoko, executive director for corporate relations and marketing, coordinates the engagement.

Towards the professionalisation of the public sector.

How technology and community involvement can bridge the gap between communities and legal aid

MARELIZE SANTANA — Thu, 11 Jul 2024 13:39:12 +0000

How technology and community involvement can bridge the gap between communities and legal aid

by Mafumane Tlhapi

MARELIZE SANTANA Thu, 07/11/2024 - 15:39

When seeking legal assistance, community members often face significant barriers owing to inadequate financial resources. One way to connect members of the public with legal services is to use online channels.

This is one of the possible solutions outlined in the research work of Prof Lusanda Beauty Juta, acting deputy director of the School of Government Studies at the Mahikeng Campus of the North-West University (NWU).

"The limitations in funding and resources severely restrict the capacity of legal aid to provide comprehensive services, which ultimately affects the community’s trust in the judicial system,” says Prof Juta, who has dedicated her academic career to understanding the critical need for accessible legal services.

Legal aid providers typically depend on government funding, grants and donations to offer services to those in need, she says. Unfortunately, this funding frequently falls short, leading to a build-up of unresolved cases and delayed justice for many community members. This financial shortfall also limits the range of services that legal aid providers can offer, hindering their ability to handle complex legal situations effectively.

Inadequate financial support and resources, including insufficient staff and facilities, prevent legal aid providers from meeting the legal needs of all community members, particularly those from low-income backgrounds. This disparity prolongs structural inequalities, as individuals unable to afford private legal services remain underserved.

Prof Juta’s research highlights the importance of providing convenient access to legal assistance through technological and electronic platforms. “To address the diverse legal requirements of community members, it is essential to leverage technology to facilitate access to legal services. This would enable community members to submit their legal grievances online and be matched with suitable legal aid providers,” she says.

Prof Juta also advocates the integration of traditional or communal mechanisms to complement the formal legal system. This integration could enhance community engagement and ensure that legal aid is more accessible to those in need. Her collaborative efforts on the Mahikeng Campus have shown positive impacts on worker recruitment and retention, which are vital for maintaining effective community ties for social and legal matters.

Since community involvement is crucial for providing legal assistance and fostering trust, respect and partnership, Prof Juta emphasises the significance of volunteering to support both police and civilian staff in addressing various legal needs. (See the text box on how to get involved.)

Through conferences, symposiums, workshops and seminars, Prof Juta has worked with government officials, community leaders and policymakers alike to exchange knowledge and enhance understanding around the vital role of community engagement in capacity building. Her findings further shed light on the necessity for community involvement in utilising local knowledge, skills and ideas to achieve self-sufficiency in key areas such as agriculture, education, health and social services.

What active citizens can do

Active citizens can help make communities safer and more equitable, says Prof Juta.

Community members can participate in citizen advisory boards, which should include representatives from local businesses, churches, community organisations, youth groups, local government and law enforcement. This diverse representation can offer valuable guidance and support for implementing effective strategies to reduce crime, alter public attitudes, and promote constructive engagement.

She also supports awareness raising among community members about the legal assistance offered by the state, such as using police department websites to file complaints and commendations, ensuring transparency in managing this information.

Community members should also participate in crime-preventive structures such as the community policing forums and youth desks, as these are accessible and effective platforms to engage positively with law enforcement.

“The involvement of the Mahikeng Campus in community legal assistance could also extend to academic pursuits, with students and staff participating in law enforcement surveys. This feedback can guide community policing efforts and foster stronger collaboration between law enforcement and residents,” says Prof Juta.

She advises community members to follow their local police on social media for updates on activities, crime alerts and other important information.

Prof Lusanda Beauty Juta, acting deputy director of the School of Government Studies, is making legal aid accessible to the community.

Paint, debate and worship create a memorable event

MARELIZE SANTANA — Wed, 10 Jul 2024 13:33:38 +0000

Paint, debate and worship create a memorable event

by Belinda Bantham

MARELIZE SANTANA Wed, 07/10/2024 - 15:33

Sip-and-paint events are more than just a trendy activity – they are a delightful combination of creativity, relaxation and social interaction, offering a space where people can express themselves artistically, connect with others and unwind.

The North-West University's (NWU’s) Faculty of Theology and the King of Glory Youth Ministries (KGMY) held a sip, paint and worship event on 25 May as part of their joint youth community development project, “Young minds for Christ”.

The project aims to empower the youth as responsible members of the community and society and the future leaders of tomorrow.

The event drew 136 enthusiastic attendees, all eager to engage in meaningful conversations and activities, and kicked off with a panel discussion on the pressing issues young people encounter and strategies to overcome them.

The discussion delved into life skills and healthy relationships that align with spiritual values. Topics included setting boundaries and fostering relationships that are pleasing to God.

During a question-and-answer session, participants had the opportunity to ask the panellists questions about their personal experiences and challenges.

The moderator was Letlhogonolo Letimela from the KGMY Leadership committee and the panel consisted of Neo Phiri, a minister and musician, Mosa Majola, also a minister and musician, three Faculty of Theology members, namely Dineo Seleke, Prof Vhumani Magazi and Dr Hannelie Yates, Zethu Ndaba, a member of the Theology Student Academic Chapter (SAC), Gift Mlambo, KGMY leader, and Mr and Mrs Koka, a young couple.

Following the discussion, attendees participated in a dynamic paint session, where everyone wore white T-shirts and was encouraged to get paint on others while avoiding getting paint on themselves. This playful activity symbolised the shared challenges young people face and underscored the importance of mutual support, regardless of race, background or denomination. The session concluded with participants holding hands and praying for one another, emphasising unity and solidarity.

The event ended in a powerful worship session led by Dineo and ministers Phiri and Majola, accompanied by the KMGY choir. The music and worship created an uplifting atmosphere, reinforcing the themes of faith and community.

Dineo, highlighting the success of the event, thanked the Faculty of Theology for its involvement and extended special thanks to Prof Magezi and Dr Yates, as well as the Theology SAC.

The event also benefited from the support of sponsors, including Amogelang Funeral Services, whose contributions made the day memorable and impactful.

In addition to the engaging activities and discussions, the Faculty of Theology generously donated Bibles for distribution to young attendees in need. This thoughtful gesture further enriched the spiritual impact of the event.

A joyful group picture capturing the essence of the Sip and Paint event.

Panel members from various fields provide diverse perspectives on topics discussed.

Attendees join together in a moment of unified prayer.

A variety of refreshing drinks were available at the sip and paint event.

A single book can open up a world of possibilities for young minds

MARELIZE SANTANA — Wed, 10 Jul 2024 12:59:51 +0000

A single book can open up a world of possibilities for young minds

by Belinda Bantham

MARELIZE SANTANA Wed, 07/10/2024 - 14:59

“Once you learn to read, you will be forever free.” This is a quote that Dr Mathew Moyo, chief director for Library and Information Services (LIS) at the North-West University, lives by.

First uttered by American social reformer Frederick Douglass, the words capture the importance of book donations in enriching library collections, particularly in under-resourced communities.

"A single book can open up a world of possibilities for a young mind,” says Dr Moyo, whose Vanderbijlpark Campus library team celebrated South African Library Week from 18 to 24 March through community visits and book donations.

Under the theme “Libraries fostering social cohesion”, the campus’s library staff visited Phiritona Public Library and Sediba Thuto Secondary School in Phiritona, Free State.

This initiative aligns with LIS's mandate to support the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Providing access to diverse literary works aims to empower individuals and ignite a passion for lifelong learning, thereby fulfilling SDG 4 (quality education) and SDG 10 (reduced inequalities).

Book donations to libraries are vital, as they expand available resources and foster a culture of reading and continuous education. Libraries play an essential role in communities, serving as inclusive spaces where people can gather learn and grow together.

“As NWU LIS, we believe that each book has its reader and making these book donations widens the access to information because reading enlightens, empowers and gives freedom,” says Dr Moyo.

Through their efforts, the NWU Library staff has demonstrated that fostering a sense of community and shared learning is integral to achieving social cohesion and sustainable development.

As South Africa continues its journey towards unity and social cohesion, initiatives like these serve as beacons of hope, reminding us of the strength of solidarity and shared purpose and the Vanderbijlpark Campus library team's dedication to making a difference echoes the sentiment that libraries are not just repositories of books but also catalysts for change and instruments of empowerment.

LIS staff members proudly contribute to the school's growing library collection, fostering a love for reading among students.

Making a difference, one book at a time.

A community effort to promote literacy.

The Faculty of Humanities: fostering engagement and social change

MARELIZE SANTANA — Wed, 10 Jul 2024 12:30:12 +0000

The Faculty of Humanities: fostering engagement and social change

by Angeline Marokoane

MARELIZE SANTANA Wed, 07/10/2024 - 14:30

The Faculty of Humanities (FHUM) at the North-West University (NWU) has an approach to education that goes beyond textbooks and lectures. Here, students and staff embark on a journey that not only sharpens their minds but also nurtures their hearts, fostering a sense of responsibility towards creating a better world. Through engaged research, teaching and community activities, the FHUM lights the way for positive change, shaping a more just and equitable society for all.

“In this vibrant community, education is more than an academic pursuit; it is a calling to make a meaningful impact. Through service learning and work-integrated learning, students do not just learn, they grow into compassionate professionals ready to make a difference,” says Prof Herculene Kotzé, deputy dean for community engagement, business development and stakeholder relations.

“We follow this approach to ensure we create an environment where students become active citizens who understand the importance of social justice, and to elevate their graduate attributes.”

For example, the Development Communication Honours programme of the School of Communication pairs students with NGOs, where they gain practical experience and see the profound impact of their work first-hand. Meanwhile, the Academic Literacy subject group in the School of Languages helps high school learners transition to higher education by equipping them with essential academic writing skills.

Central to the FHUM's philosophy is the concept of engagement, where the lines between academia and community blur. This collaborative spirit brings researchers and community partners together to tackle real-world challenges. The School of Social Sciences, for instance, is delving into the employment experiences of graduates, aiming to bridge gaps and enhance opportunities. By blending expert knowledge with community insights, the FHUM aims addresses pressing issues, spark innovation and foster community well-being.

The goal is clear: to create evidence-based solutions that advance social justice and promote collective welfare.

But the commitment does not stop at teaching and research. The FHUM is deeply rooted in community service, always seeking ways to give back. Their projects, such as the “Musicking at Huis Anna Viljoen” of the School of Music, and the “School Shoe Donation” initiative of the School of Philosophy, embody this spirit. These acts of kindness do more than provide immediate help – they bring hope and resilience to communities, empowering them to overcome challenges.

“The dedication to social change at the FHUM goes beyond acts of service. Academic professionals here use their expertise to advocate justice, both within the university and beyond. Through initiatives such as the NWU Forum and media appearances, the FHUM scholars engage the public, share knowledge, and inspire action. Staff also serve as external moderators and examiners for various institutions and editors/co-editors and reviewers for highly acclaimed academic publications, enriching education locally and globally,” says Prof Kotzé.

“At the FHUM, the mission is clear: to infuse teaching, research, and community engagement with a passion for making a lasting, positive impact. In this community, learning is intertwined with love, and every act of service, every research project and every lesson taught is a step towards a brighter, more compassionate world.”

The school shoes donated in March this year to the Tshidilamolomo, Matloding, Masamane, Mathateng, Dingateng, Mabule, and Makgori primary schools, arrived just in time for the chilly winter. This timely donation is crucial, as it ensures that the kids have appropriate footwear for school, which is essential for their comfort, safety, and ability to focus on their studies during the colder months.

This project is part of the partnership between the School of Philosophy and the Tswelelopele Empowerment Foundation.

Celebrating inclusivity in vibrant colour

MARELIZE SANTANA — Wed, 24 Apr 2024 06:52:39 +0000

Celebrating inclusivity in vibrant colour

by Angeline Marokoane

MARELIZE SANTANA Wed, 04/24/2024 - 08:52

On 19 April, the North-West University's (NWU’s) Vanderbijlpark Campus was transformed into a kaleidoscope of colours for the Run with Colour Fun event as part of Gender Awareness Week.

Staff and students eagerly joined this lively and meaningful celebration, setting aside their busy schedules to participate in a unique demonstration of unity and diversity.

Gender Awareness Week serves as a poignant reminder of the ongoing journey towards gender equality and inclusivity within the NWU community. It prompts each person to reflect on the significance of ensuring that every individual, irrespective of gender, receives respect, equal opportunities, and the freedom to express themselves authentically.

The event, held at the Big Lapa, featured a 5 km route winding through the campus's picturesque surroundings, with the Vaal River providing a stunning backdrop.

As the participants dashed through clouds of colour, laughter filled the air, creating an atmosphere of joy and camaraderie.

Director for student life Chris Williams also took part in the race and says it was more than just a run. “This colourful and fun-filled event brought staff and students together in a celebration of diversity and inclusion, a testament to the power of collective action. As we ran together, we demonstrated our commitment to breaking down the barriers that may divide us, and celebrating the ties that bind us as a community.”

The presence of each participant spoke volumes about their dedication to gender awareness and inclusivity.

“The colour run manifested a spirit of togetherness and belonging. The atmosphere was vibrant and positive, demonstrating that the NWU is indeed a place of diversity and unlimited opportunities for everyone,” said Silvanus Welcome, director for development and fundraising.

“The event was a resounding success, leaving a lasting impact on all who participated. It exemplified the university's commitment to fostering an environment where everyone feels valued and respected, regardless of gender identity,” said Bongani Qosomba, senior administrative assistant at Student Life.

Ready to start the fun – from left are Bongani Qosomba, senior administrative assistant at Student Life, Silvanus Welcome, director for development and fundraising, and Chris Williams, director for student life.

Staff and students releasing a burst of colour into the air.

Students having fun at the colour run.

Rochelle Marais-Botha and Janet Kruger, lecturers at the Faculty of Education, were the first two ladies to finish the race.

Solomon Molokomme, a second-year theology student, was the first gentleman to finish the race.

Plastic pollution is the downside to celebrations

MARELIZE SANTANA — Tue, 09 Apr 2024 07:38:16 +0000

Plastic pollution is the downside to celebrations

by Zenoyise John

MARELIZE SANTANA Tue, 04/09/2024 - 09:38

Ten million tiny pieces of plastic are estimated to be lying on the lawn in front of the North-West University (NWU) Law Faculty in Potchefstroom, and the soil in the Fanie du Toit Sports Grounds also has high levels of plastic pollution. This is the downside of the celebrations that are often held in these spaces, where glitter poppers and fireworks leave a lasting legacy – unpleasantly so.

In preparation for World Environment Day on 24 June, a team from the Research Unit for Environmental Sciences and Management conducted a study at three different sites to identify and quantify plastic particles and other pyrotechnics used in celebrations. The findings confirm the necessity for the NWU to reduce plastic pollution on its grounds and to respond in all earnest to the call made last year by Prof Bismark Tyobeka, vice-chancellor, to combat plastic pollution and minimise the use of plastic.

The research team comprised three students, Raeesa Bhikhoo, Lohan Bredenhann and Francois Bothma, and supervisors Prof Henk Bouwman and Prof Carlos Bezuidenhout. They set out to obtain soil samples from sites where poppers are frequently used, to identify and quantify plastic particles in the soil, evaluate the effectiveness of cleaning up the plastic poppers, and identify and communicate possible interventions to reduce plastic pollution on the NWU grounds.

Prof Bouwman says inadequate waste management practices in natural environments have caused plastic to become a frequent sight in cities. "Plastic is widely used for packaging and clothing, as well as for decorative purposes like confetti and glitter in ceremonial confetti poppers, and reflective plastic strips used in fireworks during sports events."

Owing to the durability of plastic, it remains in the environment for a long time, negatively affecting the environment and the residing organisms – and potentially damaging human health.

"Contact with and/or ingestion of plastic can cause a false sense of satiation, intestinal blockages, reproductive impairment and death in organisms,” Prof Bouwman says. “Both confetti/glitter poppers and fireworks are based on pyrotechnics, which also carries inherent health risks, such as eye damage, skin damage, and hearing damage.”

What the study showed

Sampling was conducted at three different sites on the Potchefstroom Campus at the NWU.

"Two of the locations were chosen based on the usage of glitter poppers and fireworks during ceremonies and sporting events, with the third site in the NWU Botanical Gardens, a control site where poppers and fireworks are not used,” says Prof Bouwman.

Six soil samples were taken per site using a core sampler. The soil samples were sifted using two layers of sieves, with the top mesh sieve size being 1,25 mm and the second mesh sieve size being 500 µm. Larger pieces of plastic were hand-picked from the soil.

“The sifted soil from the steel 500 µm sieve was then separated using a density-separation technique, as plastic is normally lighter than water and floats. The pieces can then be collected and counted,” he says.

Density separation entails adding iodine salt to water. Iodine salt is heavy and makes the density of the solution heavier than that of water or most plastics. The soil is then stirred into the solution and left for the soil particles to settle out for 24 hours. The plastic floats to the top layer. The top layer containing the plastic particles is then filtered through steel sieves of 25 µm mesh.

The particles were then counted under a microscope, enabling the students to estimate that the lawn in front of the Law Faculty contained approximately 10 million small pieces of plastic. Plastic particles were also present on the sports grounds, as well as in run-off areas, from where they will enter streams, rivers, stormwater pipes and groundwater. The soil from the Botanical Garden contained far fewer plastic particles.

The study showed the presence of enormous amounts of plastic in the soil, providing a baseline for future research and interventions to reduce plastic pollution on the NWU grounds. The use of confetti poppers and fireworks in celebrations has been normalised, but it is still a form of littering. Other bio-friendly alternatives are possible, such as dried flower petals, paper confetti, or digital effects, although these also have their own problems.

The study recommends interventions to reduce plastic pollution on the NWU grounds, such as promoting the use of bio-friendly alternatives, implementing proper waste management practices, and raising awareness among students and staff.

Students Lohan Bredenhann, Raeesa Bhikhoo, and Francois Bothma was part of the research team.

Looking to sustainable agriculture

MARELIZE SANTANA — Mon, 08 Apr 2024 11:19:46 +0000

Looking to sustainable agriculture

by Mafumane Tlhapi

MARELIZE SANTANA Mon, 04/08/2024 - 13:19

Poultry manure could revolutionise farming practices in South Africa, particularly among subsistence farmers in rural areas. This is one of the research findings of Mandisa Mazibuko, a researcher from the Faculty of Natural and Agricultural Sciences.

Her research delves into the effects of poultry manure on selected maize cultivars and soil minerals with a focus on promoting sustainable agriculture.

She applies recommended rates to determine the rate that produces a high yield and enhances soil mineral content. Consequently, the research also investigates the optimal poultry manure rate and the most suitable maize cultivar for both rain-fed and irrigated field conditions. The application of manure is done according to recommended rates to assess the impact of different poultry manure rates on maize yield and soil mineral improvement.

In South Africa, where resources are scarce and access to financial credit is limited for many farmers, Mandisa has recognised the importance of sustainable farming practices. Conventional farming methods are reliant on pesticides, synthetic fertilizers and herbicides which pose health risks to consumers and put a strain on the environment. Sustainable agriculture, on the other hand, advocates for organic manuring, reduced use of synthetics and recycling of crop residues, offering a more financially viable and environmentally friendly alternative.

“Central to my approach is the use of poultry manure as a natural fertilizer. Unlike synthetic alternatives, poultry manure enriches the soil with organic matter, promotes microbial activity and provides essential nutrients for plant growth,” she says.

The implications of her research extend beyond academic curiosity. By promoting sustainable farming methods, she aims to empower commercial and subsistence farmers, particularly those in rural communities. These communities often lack the resources and knowledge necessary to adopt sustainable practices, making her research invaluable in addressing food security concerns and mitigating the impacts of climate change.

Furthermore, Mandisa advocates for integrated weed management strategies, emphasising manual weed removal over chemical herbicides. This approach not only reduces costs for farmers but also minimises risks to beneficial organisms and human health, contributing to a more sustainable agricultural ecosystem.

To assess the long-term impact of her research, Mandisa employs soil analysis before and after manure application and multiple planting seasons to track its effectiveness over time. By measuring changes in soil minerals and plant growth, she aims to provide concrete evidence of the benefits of sustainable farming practices.

“Beyond immediate environmental and agricultural benefits, my research underscores the broader socio-economic advantages of sustainable agriculture. By increasing food production while reducing input costs, sustainable farming can contribute to rural development and economic growth, ultimately improving the overall well-being of communities.”

Mandisa Mazibuko's journey towards sustainability.

“A Faculty Who Cares” goes the extra mile for learners

MARELIZE SANTANA — Mon, 08 Apr 2024 11:00:55 +0000

“A Faculty Who Cares” goes the extra mile for learners

by Belinda Bantham

MARELIZE SANTANA Mon, 04/08/2024 - 13:00

Grade 12 learners are on the brink of adulthood, facing decisions about their future careers and lifestyles. The weight of these decisions and expectations from parents, teachers and society can be overwhelming.

Amid their stresses and worries, they can count on the support of mentors such as Prof Fazel Freeks, associate professor and coordinator of community engagement at the Faculty of Theology of the North-West University (NWU).

Prof Freeks is behind the “A Faculty Who Cares” initiative. He started it in 2020 to assist Grade 12 learners with study methods, while also offering motivation, inspiration and career guidance. He worked with the Promosa Secondary School and the Potchefstroom Secondary School.

“So many learners finish matric and are unsure about what career choices to make and end up choosing the wrong field of study, mainly because of pressure from their parents. This is an issue I feel very passionately about, and it is something I address by giving these learners motivational talks on career development and career choices.”

Issues such as substance abuse and violence are contributing factors that hinder the youth and their academic performance, and this initiative also aims to educate them about such matters.

Expanding the circle

Prof Freeks’s vision for this initiative is to collaborate with other faculties in the NWU and to introduce more schools to this initiative.

His passion for motivating and mentoring learners stems from a deeply held belief in the transformative power of guidance and encouragement. “Since starting this initiative, I have seen the differences and results, and I am exceptionally proud of what the learners have achieved.”

At the Promosa Secondary School, 82 learners wrote the matric exams in 2023 and 59 learners passed, representing a pass rate of 71,9%. At the Potchefstroom Secondary School, 84 learners wrote the exams, and the pass rate was 78,6%.

Prof Freeks expresses his gratitude towards the Faculty of Theology, the dedicated school principals, Mr Jacobus Claassen and Mrs Veyonny Rochelle Ferris, as well as the schools’ teachers for their leadership and collaboration.

“In a world where your impact may not always be immediately visible, please know that you are making a difference,” is his message to them.

Prof Freeks adds that their dedication shapes the future, one learner at a time. “You are truly the heart of our educational community.”

Prof Fazel Ebrihiam Freeks.

Grade 12 learners at Potchefstroom Secondary School receive their certificates of merit.

Grade 12 learners from Promosa Secondary School.

Tennis continues to triumph at the NWU

MARELIZE SANTANA — Thu, 28 Mar 2024 09:41:10 +0000

Tennis continues to triumph at the NWU

by Bertie Jacobs

MARELIZE SANTANA Thu, 03/28/2024 - 11:41

Languages with origins from across the world were heard, and the tennis courts at the Fanie du Toit Sports Grounds at the North-West University (NWU) became a global village during the recent hosting of two junior ITF tournaments.

The upsurge in the number of tennis tournaments hosted by the NWU has been something to behold, and can be attributed to the new clay courts at the Potchefstroom Campus as well as the superlative organising and coaching team.

Coupled with that is the university’s High Performance Institute and the NWU’s Sports Village, which cater for exercise, rehabilitation and accommodation needs. All this makes the NWU the preeminent tennis destination in the country.

“We have been hosting ITF tournaments for almost twenty years and it is always a wonderful, proud moment to see some of the game’s best under 18 players on our courts. The players come from the Czech Republic, Germany, France, England, Poland, South Africa and elsewhere, and they are all full of praise for our facilities. There are few other facilities in the country that can match us, with our five clay courts, ten hard courts and two grass courts. We provide ample choices for visiting players,” says Heléne Botha, manager of tennis, netball and aquatics at the Potchefstroom Campus.

“Personally, I am very proud to be part of the NWU’s sports structure and it gives me great joy to hear the exceedingly positive comments from our visitors.”