Community Engagement

Eagles top Varsity Cup log

Well, isn’t that a pretty picture? The North-West University (NWU) Eagles are sitting on top of the Varsity Cup log after beating CUT Ixias 53-46 in Bloemfontein.

In what was perhaps a case of complacency, the Eagles allowed a generous half-time lead of 37-12 to be systematically etched away by the home side, especially in the last 10 minutes when the Ixias scored three converted tries.

It was a late, impressive blitzkrieg by the underdogs, but the Eagles’ opening salvos proved effective enough to secure the win.

Submitted on Tue, 03/26/2024 - 10:59

A community unites to shatter world records and nourish 10 000 souls

On Saturday, 16 March, the Vaal Triangle community witnessed an unprecedented event that not only broke records but also warmed hearts and filled stomachs.  

One of the highlights of the "Rocking the Vaal" event on the grounds of the Emerald Resort and Casino was a monumental potjiekos cook-off. This venture saw 84 North-West University (NWU) staff members and 100 students coming together to prepare a staggering 2 794 kg of the traditional South African dish.

Submitted on Mon, 03/25/2024 - 14:31

UNICEF club champions obesity and mental health awareness

The UNICEF club at the North-West University’s (NWU’s) Mahikeng Campus has taken proactive steps to address pressing health issues by hosting a programme focused on combatting obesity and promoting mental health awareness among students.

UNICEF stands for the United Nations International Children's Emergency Fund, now officially the United Nations Children's Fund. This agency of the United Nations provides humanitarian and developmental aid to children worldwide.

Submitted on Mon, 03/25/2024 - 13:49

Bingo brings joy to the elderly

In a heart-warming initiative aimed at fostering community engagement and supporting the elderly, the office of the deputy vice-chancellor for community engagement and Mahikeng Campus operations at the North-West University (NWU) recently reached out to the Rotarus Home for Senior Citizens in Mahikeng.

Led by deputy vice-chancellor Prof Sonia Swanepoel, the programme brought together elderly residents for an afternoon of entertainment and social interaction.

Submitted on Mon, 03/25/2024 - 09:33

Taylor Swift to South Africa’s rescue?

• Taylor Swift is a cultural phenomenon, spelling a massive cash influx in consumer spending for her concert destinations.

• Cities and provinces in South Africa can benefit hugely by exploiting the spending potential from concerts by international musicians.

• Local governments should look to take the initiative and work with the private sector to fuel the tourism industry, especially in tourist off-seasons.

Submitted on Wed, 03/20/2024 - 08:50

Research Support Office participates in Gates Foundation-funded project

The Research Support Office at the North-West University (NWU) is one of only ten research support offices in the Southern African Development Community (SADC) that received a grant and were selected to participate in the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation-funded project.

This constitutes a part of the Southern African Research and Innovation Management Association (SARIMA) initiative.

Submitted on Fri, 03/08/2024 - 09:02

SADiLaR workshop highlights benefits of online dictionaries

The South African Centre, for Digital Language Resources (SADiLaR) at the North-West University (NWU) recently facilitated a successful online dictionary training workshop at the University of KwaZulu-Natal.

During the one-day workshop staff, students, and language practitioners had the opportunity to delve into the world of online dictionaries and discover the numerous benefits they hold for research and learning.

Prof Langa Khumalo, director of SADiLaR, kicked-off the workshop with a talk about the need for an online dictionary.

Submitted on Fri, 03/08/2024 - 08:08

Celebrating 835 years of dedication

In a heart-warming celebration of commitment and dedication, the North-West University’s (NWU’s) Vanderbijlpark Campus recently honoured its staff members for their long-standing service to the institution.

The university recognised employees who have reached milestones of 10, 15, 20, 25 and an astonishing 30 years of service. Together, these recipients commemorated a remarkable combined tenure of 835 years, symbolising not just loyalty, but a profound dedication to the university's mission and values.

Submitted on Fri, 03/08/2024 - 06:48